Get ready for sweater weather with these Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies. They’re perfect for cozy fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or just a sweet treat while enjoying your favorite seasonal drink. These cookies are made with brown butter and pumpkin puree, creating a rich flavor that will delight your taste buds. The best part? You can whip them up in just one bowl!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal equipment and ingredients, making it simple for any skill level.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown butter, pumpkin puree, and warm spices creates a mouthwatering treat.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a holiday party, these cookies will impress everyone.
Chewy Texture: The unique method of browning the butter ensures a soft and chewy texture that you’ll crave.
Versatile: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here are some essentials you’ll need to prepare these delicious cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without mess.
Whisk: This tool helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly blending wet ingredients.
Baking sheets: Using proper baking sheets ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

¾ cup unsalted butter
1 cup light brown sugar
¼ cup white sugar
1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon maple syrup
¼ cup pumpkin puree

Dry Ingredients

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 cups all purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup white sugar
½ tablespoon pumpkin pie spice

How to Make Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Brown the Butter

In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, increase the heat to medium and let the butter begin to foam. Keep cooking and stirring with a spatula until it browns and gives off a nutty smell (about 2-3 minutes). Pour into a medium mixing bowl and let cool completely.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Once the brown butter has cooled, whisk in the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and maple syrup. Then add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. Whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Form the Dough

Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

While the cookie dough chills, preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Scoop out cookie dough using a large cookie scoop or spoon so each ball is about two tablespoons. In a small bowl, mix together white sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Roll each dough ball in this mixture.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Place on prepared baking sheets with enough space between them (3–4 inches apart). Bake in the preheated oven for about 10–14 minutes. The edges should be set while the middles may appear slightly underbaked.

Enjoy your soft and chewy pumpkin cookies as they bring warmth to any occasion!

How to Serve Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies

Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect for autumn gatherings, cozy nights in, or simply as a delightful treat with your morning coffee. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

Enjoy your soft and chewy pumpkin cookies by pairing them with a cold glass of milk. This classic duo enhances the cookie’s flavors and makes for a comforting snack.

Warm with Ice Cream

Serve warm cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The warm cookie combined with cold ice cream creates a heavenly contrast that is irresistible.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle some pure maple syrup over the cookies. This adds a rich flavor that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

On a Dessert Platter

Arrange your cookies on a festive dessert platter alongside other fall treats like apple pie or pecan bars. This makes for an inviting display at any gathering.

With Coffee or Tea

Pair soft and chewy pumpkin cookies with your favorite coffee or tea. The spices in the cookies complement both beverages wonderfully, making for a cozy afternoon break.

How to Perfect Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies

To achieve the perfect soft and chewy texture in your pumpkin cookies, consider these helpful tips.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and egg yolk are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and better incorporation of ingredients.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies instead of soft ones.
Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.
Check Baking Time: Remove the cookies from the oven when they still look slightly underbaked in the center. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies

Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider:

Spiced Hot Cider – A warm drink made from apple cider infused with cinnamon and cloves that complements the spices in your cookies.
Caramelized Apples – Sautéed apples cooked with brown sugar and cinnamon provide a sweet contrast to the richness of the cookies.
Pumpkin Soup – A creamy bowl of spiced pumpkin soup serves as a delightful appetizer before enjoying your sweet treat.
Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses, including brie or sharp cheddar, brings savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
Candied Nuts – Sweetened nuts add crunchiness and depth to your dessert table while enhancing fall flavors.
Chocolate Fondue – Melted chocolate served with fresh fruit allows guests to dip their favorite bites alongside their pumpkin cookie indulgence.
Pecan Pie Bites – Miniature pecan pies offer another sweet option that pairs beautifully with your soft and chewy pumpkin cookies.
Chai Latte – A spicy chai latte provides warmth and complementary flavors that perfectly match your pumpkin-themed goodies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making soft and chewy pumpkin cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

Not using room temperature ingredients: Using cold ingredients can affect the texture of the cookies. Ensure your egg yolk and other components are at room temperature for the best results.
Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make your cookies tough instead of soft and chewy. Mix until just combined for that perfect texture.
Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld and improves the cookie’s structure. Don’t skip this essential step, even if you’re eager to bake!
Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for precise measurements.
Baking too long: Overbaking will result in hard cookies. Keep an eye on them; they should look slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies

Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
Keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes for fresh taste.
Microwave: Heat one cookie for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet for about 1 minute, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making soft and chewy pumpkin cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries answered.

How do I ensure my pumpkin cookies are soft and chewy?

To achieve that desired texture, don’t overbake them! They should look slightly underbaked when taken out of the oven.

Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works great and saves time, making it easy to whip up these delicious cookies.

What can I add to my soft and chewy pumpkin cookies?

Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture. Customize them based on your taste preferences!

How should I store my leftover pumpkin cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I double this soft and chewy pumpkin cookies recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe if you want more delicious cookies to share with friends and family!

Final Thoughts

These soft and chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Their rich flavors are customizable with mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, making them versatile treats. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how delightful they are!

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Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Get ready to indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these soft and chewy pumpkin cookies. Made with rich brown butter and creamy pumpkin puree, these delightful treats are bursting with warmth and spice. Perfect for Halloween gatherings, festive parties, or simply enjoying with your favorite seasonal drink, these cookies are sure to become a cherished autumn tradition. Simple to make using just one bowl, they offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Ingredients

Scale

¾ cup unsalted butter
1 cup light brown sugar
¼ cup white sugar
1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ cup pumpkin puree
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt

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Instructions

Brown the butter: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat until it foams and turns golden brown. Allow it to cool.
Combine wet ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled brown butter, sugars, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon.
Form the dough: Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Shape cookies: Scoop dough into balls and roll in a mixture of white sugar and pumpkin pie spice before placing them on baking sheets.
Bake: Bake for about 10–14 minutes until edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American