Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
Introduction
Are you in search of the perfect fall treat? These chewy pumpkin cookies deliver rich autumn flavors with an incredible texture. Soft in the middle with slightly crisp edges, these cookies are a delightful blend of pumpkin spice and everything nice. Whether you’re sharing them with family, baking for a festive gathering, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these irresistible chewy pumpkin cookies:
Flour
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
Baking soda
½ teaspoon
Salt
¼ teaspoon
Cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Cloves
⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
Unsalted butter
½ cup (1 stick), melted and cooled slightly
Granulated sugar
½ cup
Brown sugar
½ cup packed
Pumpkin puree
⅓ cup (not pumpkin pie filling)
Egg yolk
1 large egg yolk
Vanilla extract
2 teaspoons
Optional add-ins
½ cup white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips
Prep Time
Preparation for these pumpkin cookies is quick and easy. The total prep time for the recipe is about 15 minutes. This includes gathering the ingredients, mixing, and preparing the dough. Be sure to also leave time for chilling the dough as it ensures the best cookie texture.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for these cookies is approximately 11 to 13 minutes for each batch, depending on your oven.
The total time, including prep and baking, comes to around 1 hour and 30 minutes. This time includes the essential step of chilling the dough for 1 hour for optimal results.
Yield: This recipe makes about 18 to 22 cookies, perfect for sharing or storing for later enjoyment. Adjust as needed for larger batches.
Now, you’re ready to bake a delicious batch of chewy pumpkin cookies that will fill your home with the warm and cozy aroma of fall.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
– Measure and set out all ingredients for easy access.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
– In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and pumpkin puree.
– Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
– Add the vanilla extract and continue to mix.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
– In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and any other spices if desired.
– Make sure the dry ingredients are well sifted to avoid clumps.
Step 4: Incorporate Wet and Dry Ingredients
– Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
– Fold them together gently using a spatula until just combined and a dough forms. Avoid overmixing to maintain a soft texture.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
– Cover the dough bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour. Chilling is essential for enhancing flavor and preventing spreading during baking.
Step 6: Roll the Dough
– After chilling, scoop portions of the dough using a cookie scoop or spoon to ensure even-sized cookies. Roll them into balls with your hands.
– Optionally, roll the dough balls in granulated sugar for a slight sugary coating.
Step 7: Arrange on Baking Sheet
– Place the rolled dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets. Ensure there’s enough space between each ball (about 2 inches apart) to prevent spreading during baking.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
– Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should look slightly underbaked in the center but set around the edges.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
– Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the pans for 5 minutes.
– Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Note on Chilling the Dough
– Chilling the dough is critical to ensuring the cookies are thick and don’t spread excessively. Skip this step only if absolutely necessary.
Note on Measuring Flour
– Properly measure your flour by fluffing it up, scooping it into your measuring cup, and leveling it off with a knife. Avoid packing the flour, which can result in dry cookies.
Note on Spices
– Adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg based on your preference. You can also add additional spices like cloves or allspice for a more robust flavor.
Note on Storing Cookies
– Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Note on Butter Substitution
– For a dairy-free version, replace butter with a plant-based alternative. Ensure it’s melted for consistency.
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Cook Techniques
Pat Dry the Pumpkin Puree
Excess moisture can make your cookies cakey rather than chewy. To avoid this, pat your pumpkin puree dry with paper towels to remove as much water as possible.
Chill the Dough
Chilling the dough before baking prevents the cookies from spreading too much and helps enhance their chewy texture. Make sure to chill for the recommended time.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure your butter and egg yolk are at room temperature to help the dough mix evenly, creating a smoother cookie texture.
Measure Flour Properly
Over-measuring flour can make your cookies dense. Use the spoon and level method to achieve accurate measurement and avoid packing the flour in the measuring cup.
Don’t Overmix the Dough
Overmixing the cookie dough activates the gluten, which can make your cookies tough. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
Press Down the Cookies Slightly
To ensure the cookies bake evenly and have the desired shape, slightly press them down before placing them in the oven.
Monitor Baking Time
Baking cookies for too long can make them dry. Check for doneness around the lower end of the baking time to keep them soft and chewy.
FAQ
Why are my cookies cakey instead of chewy?
Cakey cookies might be the result of too much moisture in the dough. Make sure to pat your pumpkin puree dry and measure your flour carefully.
Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Yes, but fresh pumpkin puree tends to have more moisture. Make sure to pat it dry thoroughly to achieve the right consistency.
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld together and helps the dough firm up, leading to less spreading and chewier cookies.
Can I skip the egg yolk?
The egg yolk contributes to the chewy texture of the cookies. Omitting it may affect the final result.
How long can I store these cookies?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Roll it into balls, freeze them solid, and then store them in a zip-top bag until ready to bake.
Do I have to press the cookie dough before baking?
Pressing the cookie dough ensures even baking and a consistent shape, so it’s a recommended step.
Can I add mix-ins to these cookies?
Yes, chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit can be added to the dough for extra flavor and texture. Be mindful not to overmix when incorporating them.
Conclusion
The chewy pumpkin cookies are a delightful balance of autumnal flavors and soft, chewy texture. With their warm spices and the perfect hint of pumpkin, they are a great treat to enjoy during the fall season or anytime you crave cozy flavors. They are simple to make and ideal for sharing with friends and family or pairing with a warm drink.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spiced Pumpkin Muffins
For another way to enjoy pumpkin, consider baking moist spiced pumpkin muffins. They make a great breakfast or snack option.
Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies
Pair the chewy pumpkin cookies with classic snickerdoodle cookies for a mix of spice-forward and buttery sweet flavors.
Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Topping
Pumpkin bread with a crunchy streusel topping provides a wonderful combination of flavors and textures that complements the cookies.
Fall Spiced Latte
Serve these cookies alongside a homemade fall spiced latte for the ultimate cozy treat.
Chocolate Chunk Pumpkin Bars
Try baking chocolate chunk pumpkin bars to add a rich, chocolatey twist to your dessert spread.
Pecan Maple Tart
Balance out the pumpkin recipes with the nutty, buttery taste of a pecan maple tart for a show-stopping dessert combination.
