Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
These chewy pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or as a sweet surprise for loved ones. With their soft centers and spiced sugar topping, each cookie is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that captures the essence of the season. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies will surely impress with their incredible flavor and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices makes these cookies unique and delicious.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these chewy treats in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon snack, these cookies fit every event.
- Versatile Dessert: Enjoy them plain or topped with cream cheese frosting for an extra special touch.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Baking these cookies is a great activity to do with kids, making memories while enjoying the aromas of fall.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking process smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will ensure you can focus on creating the best chewy pumpkin cookies.
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: Makes mixing butter and sugars effortless, ensuring a creamy texture.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect cookie consistency.
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 Sugar Topping
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
For the Cookie Dough
- 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). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, combine the granulated white sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.
Step 4: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla
Mix in the egg yolks one at a time followed by the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Incorporate Pumpkin Puree
Add the canned pumpkin puree into the mixture. Stir until well blended.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix this dry blend into your wet ingredients until combined.
Step 7: Form Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.
Step 8: Sprinkle Sugar Topping
Sprinkle the spiced sugar mixture generously over each cookie before baking.
Step 9: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
Step 10: Cool
Allow cookies to cool on the 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
Chewy pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests at a gathering or simply indulge in a cozy afternoon snack, here are some serving suggestions.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair these cookies with cold milk for a classic combination that enhances the flavors of pumpkin and spice.
Warm from the Oven
- Serve them warm right out of the oven for an irresistible melting experience. The chewy texture is best enjoyed fresh!
As Dessert Sandwiches
- Create cookie sandwiches by adding a layer of cream cheese frosting between two chewy pumpkin cookies. This adds an extra dimension of flavor.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a festive touch. This works beautifully if you’re serving them as part of a dessert platter.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite coffee or tea. The spices complement warm beverages perfectly, making it a great afternoon treat.
How to Perfect Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
Perfecting your chewy pumpkin cookies ensures they turn out just right every time. Here are some handy tips to elevate your baking game.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg yolks are at room temperature. This helps in creating a smooth batter and better texture.
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Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed for that perfect chewiness.
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Chill the dough: For even better results, chill your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the cookie’s texture.
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Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be set but still soft in the center when you take them out.
Best Side Dishes for Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
Chewy pumpkin cookies make a fantastic dessert, but they can also be complemented by some delightful side dishes. Here are some options to consider when planning your meal.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A warm spiced apple cider pairs perfectly with these cookies, enhancing their autumnal flavors.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: Serve this alongside for dipping or spreading, adding richness to each bite of the cookie.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a creamy contrast that balances the spiced sweetness of the cookies.
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Candied Pecans: The crunchiness and sweetness of candied pecans make for an excellent textural counterpart to chewy pumpkin cookies.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enjoy these cookies with a cozy cup of pumpkin spice latte for an indulgent fall treat.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your cookies for an extra sweet touch that will delight any dessert lover.
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Fall Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad featuring apples and pears adds brightness and freshness to balance the richness of the cookies.
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Nutty Granola: Serve crunchy granola on the side for added texture and flavor contrast with each cookie bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making chewy pumpkin cookies, avoiding common errors can enhance your baking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Incorrect Measurements: Using the wrong amount of ingredients can affect the texture. Always measure flour by spooning it into a cup and leveling it off.
- Overmixing Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to maintain that chewy texture.
- Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can prevent proper mixing. Ensure your butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature for better results.
- Ignoring Baking Times: Every oven is different. Start checking your chewy pumpkin cookies a minute or two before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.
- Not Chilling the Dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor. Allow at least 30 minutes in the fridge before baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge.
- Layer parchment paper between cookies to avoid sticking.
Freezing Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm. This keeps them chewy.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on low power for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet on low, then place cookies inside for about 1 minute, flipping once.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about chewy pumpkin cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some answers to common inquiries.
How do I make chewy pumpkin cookies?
To make chewy pumpkin cookies, use a combination of brown sugar and butter, mix until just combined, and avoid overbaking them.
Can I substitute ingredients in chewy pumpkin cookies?
Yes! You can use coconut oil instead of butter or replace part of the flour with oats for added texture.
How long do chewy pumpkin cookies last?
Chewy pumpkin cookies last up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature.
What spices go well with chewy pumpkin cookies?
Classic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger complement the flavors of chewy pumpkin cookies beautifully.
Final Thoughts
These chewy pumpkin cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor. Try this recipe today and enjoy the cozy comfort of fall in every bite!
Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these Chewy Pumpkin Cookies. Soft, spiced, and perfectly sweetened, these delightful treats are a must-bake for autumn gatherings or cozy nights at home. Each cookie features a tender center topped with a spiced sugar blend that enhances the warm pumpkin flavor. Easy to prepare and kid-friendly, this recipe is perfect for baking enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as part of a festive dessert spread, these cookies promise to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 3/4 cups 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
- 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until smooth.
- Mix in egg yolks one at a time, followed by pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix into wet ingredients.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the baking sheet with space between them. Sprinkle the spiced sugar topping over each cookie before baking.
- Bake for about 12 minutes until edges are golden and centers remain soft. Cool on racks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (34g)
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 23mg
