Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
These Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are the perfect treat for fall! With a delightful blend of pumpkin spice and a chewy texture that melts in your mouth, they are ideal for cozy gatherings, holiday parties, or simply enjoying at home. Each cookie is topped with a spiced sugar that enhances their flavor, making them a standout addition to any dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, comforting taste that captures the essence of fall.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires common ingredients, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies are suitable for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: The unique method results in cookies that are soft in the center with slightly crispy edges—just how cookies should be!
- Perfect for Leftovers: If you have any cookies left (which is unlikely!), they stay fresh for several days in an airtight container.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps to thoroughly combine ingredients, ensuring a smooth dough.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for mixing ingredients efficiently without making a mess.
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking, allowing cookies to cook uniformly.
Ingredients
These chewy pumpkin cookies have the perfect amount of pumpkin spice and each bite truly melts in your mouth. With chewy centers and spiced sugar topping, you will not believe how delicious these fall cookies are!
For the Dough
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (220 g) light brown sugar, packed
- 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 1/2 cup (122 g) canned pumpkin puree (Libby’s works best)
- 1 3/4 cups (219 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 3: Mix Sugar and Spices
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar with 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. Set this aside for topping later.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar mixture using a stand mixer or hand mixer until creamy.
Step 5: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla
Add the egg yolks one at a time to the butter mixture along with the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 6: Incorporate Pumpkin Puree
Gently fold in the canned pumpkin puree until it is fully incorporated into the mixture.
Step 7: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, remaining pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
Step 8: Scoop Cookies onto Baking Sheet
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave enough space between each cookie to allow them to spread.
Step 9: Sprinkle with Spiced Sugar
Sprinkle each cookie generously with the spiced sugar mixture prepared earlier.
Step 10: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Enjoy your homemade chewy pumpkin cookies!
How to Serve Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
These chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect for any fall gathering or cozy night in. Whether you want to pair them with a drink or add them to a dessert platter, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With a Warm Beverage
- Pumpkin Spice Latte – The warm spices of the latte complement the cookies beautifully.
- Chai Tea – A spiced chai tea brings out the flavors of the pumpkin and spice in the cookies.
Dessert Platter
- Mixed Cookie Tray – Add these chewy pumpkin cookies alongside chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin for variety.
- Fruit and Cheese Board – Pair with sliced apples and soft cheeses for a balanced treat.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Vanilla Ice Cream – Place a scoop between two cookies for an indulgent treat.
- Pumpkin Ice Cream – Enhance the pumpkin flavor by using pumpkin-flavored ice cream.
Gift Packaging
- Cookie Jars – Stack these cookies in a decorative jar as a thoughtful gift during the fall season.
- Seasonal Boxes – Package cookies in themed boxes for parties or as holiday gifts.
How to Perfect Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
To ensure your chewy pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Make sure your spices and baking powder are fresh for optimal flavor.
- Room Temperature Ingredients – Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature to help with mixing.
- Do Not Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and chewy.
- Chill the Dough – Refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to enhance texture.
- Watch Baking Time – Remove cookies when they look slightly underbaked; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Store Properly – Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain their chewiness.
Best Side Dishes for Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
When serving chewy pumpkin cookies, consider pairing them with these delicious side dishes. Each option complements the flavors of the cookies while providing a delightful balance.
- Spiced Apple Cider – A warm, spiced drink that enhances the autumn flavors of your cookie spread.
- Pecan Pie Bites – Sweet and nutty, these bites offer a great contrast to soft pumpkin cookies.
- Caramel Dip with Sliced Apples – The sweet caramel pairs well with tart apples and makes for a refreshing side.
- Maple Glazed Walnuts – Crunchy and sweet, they add texture contrast when enjoyed with soft cookies.
- Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy fries bring savory elements that balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon – This savory dish offers depth while keeping with fall flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making chewy pumpkin cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the texture and flavor. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.
- Using cold butter: Cold butter will not cream well with sugars, resulting in less fluffy cookies. Always use softened butter for better texture.
- Skipping the flour measurement: Improper measuring can lead to dry or overly wet dough. Spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
- Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can cause cookies to spread too much while baking. Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Overbaking: Chewy pumpkin cookies should be soft in the center when they come out of the oven. Bake just until edges are golden.
- Ignoring spices: Pumpkin spice is key to flavor. Don’t skimp on it; using fresh spices can elevate your cookie’s taste significantly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store chewy pumpkin cookies in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds, being careful not to overdo it.
- Stovetop: Place a cookie in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 1 minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about chewy pumpkin cookies that may help you in your baking journey.
What makes chewy pumpkin cookies different from regular pumpkin cookies?
Chewy pumpkin cookies have a softer texture with a gooey center, thanks to higher fat content and proper baking techniques.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, but ensure it’s properly pureed and cooked down until thick. Canned pumpkin is often more convenient and consistent.
How long do chewy pumpkin cookies last?
When stored correctly, they last up to 5 days at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Are chewy pumpkin cookies suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! They freeze well and maintain their delicious flavor after thawing.
Final Thoughts
These chewy pumpkin cookies are not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even drizzling with icing. They’re perfect for fall gatherings or simply as a cozy treat at home. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every warm, spiced bite!
Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of fall with these Chewy Pumpkin Cookies. Bursting with rich pumpkin flavor and a delightful blend of spices, each cookie offers a chewy center and slightly crispy edges that melt in your mouth. Perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying at home, these cookies are topped with spiced sugar to enhance their deliciousness. Whether paired with a warm beverage or served on a dessert platter, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Try this easy recipe today and savor every comforting bite!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and both sugars until smooth. Add egg yolks and vanilla; mix until combined.
- Fold in pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, remaining pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt together. Gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Sprinkle each cookie with the spiced sugar mixture.
- Bake for about 12 minutes or until edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked. Let cool before transferring to wire racks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 138
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 59mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 24mg
