Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

These chewy pumpkin cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the fall season. With their rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices, they are perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee. Each bite is soft and chewy, making them a favorite among cookie lovers. You won’t be able to resist their deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfectly Chewy Texture: These cookies have a wonderful chewy center that melts in your mouth, providing a satisfying bite every time.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices makes these cookies suitable for any occasion, from Thanksgiving dessert tables to casual snack times.
• Great for Sharing: With 18 cookies in this batch, they’re ideal for sharing with friends and family or bringing to potlucks.
• Seasonal Favorite: These cookies capture the essence of fall with their warm flavors and comforting aroma.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your chewy pumpkin cookies, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Hand mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents warping in the oven.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking, making cookie removal easy.

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). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and help them bake evenly.

Step 3: Mix Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, combine the granulated white sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Set this mixture aside as you’ll use it later for sprinkling on top of the cookies.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or whisk for this step.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and canned pumpkin puree. Mix until fully combined.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, additional pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Step 7: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 8: Shape Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.

Step 9: Sprinkle Sugar Topping

Sprinkle each cookie ball with the spiced sugar mixture you prepared earlier.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft.

Step 11: Cool

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious chewy pumpkin cookies!

How to Serve Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

These chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. They make a delightful addition to any fall gathering, and you can serve them in various creative ways.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with cold milk for a classic treat that enhances the cookie’s flavors.

At a Cozy Gathering

• Serve them warm at a bonfire or fall party to create a comforting atmosphere filled with delicious aromas.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include chewy pumpkin cookies on a dessert platter alongside other fall favorites like pecan pie and apple cider donuts for variety.

Gift Them in a Jar

• Layer cookies in a mason jar tied with a ribbon for an attractive homemade gift that friends and family will love.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies during an afternoon break with your favorite coffee or spiced tea to complement their warm spices.

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How to Perfect Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

To ensure your chewy pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve that soft, chewy texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough – Combine the ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired chewiness.

• Chill the Dough – Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step enhances flavor and helps create thicker cookies.

• Check Oven Temperature – Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures. An overly hot oven can lead to overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Chewy pumpkin cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider – A warm drink that enhances the cozy, spiced notes of the cookies.

2. Pumpkin Soup – A creamy, savory soup that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cookies.

3. Roasted Butternut Squash Salad – The sweetness of squash complements the pumpkin flavor in your cookies.

4. Maple Pecan Pie – A classic dessert that pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors while offering different textures.

5. Cream Cheese Frosting Dip – A sweet dip where you can dunk your cookies for extra indulgence.

6. Cheese Board – Add cheese varieties like brie or aged cheddar for a savory balance alongside your sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can ensure your chewy pumpkin cookies turn out just right. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the texture of your cookies. Make sure to bring them to room temperature before mixing.
• Over-measuring flour: Too much flour leads to dry cookies. Use the spoon and level method for precise measuring.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can result in cookies that spread too much. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Underbaking: It’s tempting to take cookies out early, but they will continue cooking on the baking sheet. Follow baking times closely for perfect chewy centers.
• Using expired baking soda or powder: Fresh leavening agents are key for proper rise. Always check the expiration dates before use.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• You can place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about chewy pumpkin cookies that might help you make them even better!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

How do I make chewy pumpkin cookies?

To achieve chewiness, use brown sugar and egg yolks, and avoid overbaking them.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and create a delightful contrast with the pumpkin spices.

How long do chewy pumpkin cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days or can be frozen for up to three months.

Final Thoughts

These chewy pumpkin cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with nuts or chocolate chips according to your preference. Enjoy making these cozy treats that bring warmth and joy during the fall season!