Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

As the crisp autumn air rolls in, there’s nothing cozier than the scent of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg wafting through your kitchen. These Chewy Pumpkin Cookies capture everything we love about fall in a soft, tender bite! If you’re looking for an easy, heartwarming recipe to embrace the season, this one’s for you. You’ll love how the cookies stay soft and chewy, with just the right hint of warm spices. So let’s dive into this delicious pumpkin treat – and don’t forget to subscribe to get more recipes like this straight to your inbox!

Why You’ll Fall for These Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Imagine biting into a cookie that’s soft, chewy, and loaded with pumpkin flavor! These cookies are:

• Perfectly Chewy: Thanks to the right balance of pumpkin puree and melted butter
• Rich in Fall Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add depth and warmth
• Easy to Make: No fancy tools required, just a couple of bowls and a baking sheet
• Versatile: Add chocolate chips, walnuts, or even a cream cheese glaze for extra indulgence

What Do Chewy Pumpkin Cookies Taste Like?

These cookies have a soft, pillowy texture that practically melts in your mouth, with the perfect chew. The pumpkin puree keeps them moist, while the spices bring a comforting warmth to each bite. They’re sweet without being overpowering, making them an ideal pairing with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Pumpkin is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! It’s rich in vitamin A for eye health, fiber for digestion, and antioxidants to support your immune system. Plus, it’s low in calories, making these cookies a slightly healthier indulgence for your fall cravings!

Ingredients for Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

To make these cozy cookies, you’ll need:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup melted butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls (2)
• Whisk and spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack for cooling

Optional Additions and Substitutions

• Chocolate Chips: For a sweet twist, add ½ cup of chocolate chips
• Walnuts or Pecans: Mix in ½ cup of chopped nuts for a bit of crunch
• Maple Syrup Drizzle: Drizzle cooled cookies with maple syrup for added flavor
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Pipe a dollop of cream cheese frosting on top for a decadent treat

How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This step ensures the spices are evenly distributed

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, both sugars, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended

Step 4: Bring the Dough Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the cookies less tender

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and slightly golden

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. These are best enjoyed slightly warm, but they stay chewy and flavorful for days!

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What to Serve with Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Pair these cookies with a cozy beverage like:

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: Double up on pumpkin for ultimate fall vibes!
• Chai Tea: The spices in chai beautifully complement the cookie’s flavor
• Hot Chocolate: For a warm, comforting treat on chilly days

Tips for the Perfect Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

1. Measure the Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid overpacking, which can lead to dense cookies
2. Avoid Over-Mixing: Too much stirring can make the cookies tough
3. Cool on a Wire Rack: This helps prevent them from becoming soggy
4. Adjust Baking Time for Crispier Edges: If you prefer a slightly crisp edge, bake for an additional 1-2 minutes

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them up slightly in the microwave

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture, as fresh puree can be wetter than canned

What makes these cookies chewy?

The melted butter, combined with the pumpkin puree, gives these cookies their chewy texture. Unlike traditional cookies, which often rely on sugar for chewiness, these cookies benefit from the moisture in the pumpkin

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for baking. You might need to add an extra minute or two to the baking time

How can I make the cookies vegan?

Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, set to gel for a few minutes) and use dairy-free butter

Wrapping It Up: Embrace Fall with Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

There’s something magical about baking these Chewy Pumpkin Cookies, from the cozy aromas to the delight of that first warm bite. Perfectly spiced, deliciously chewy, and a total hit for fall gatherings or quiet nights at home. Make these for your next treat, and watch how quickly they disappear! If you loved this recipe, you won’t want to miss out on some of my other fall favorites, like this Pumpkin Bread with Snickerdoodle Streusel, this decadent Pumpkin Pie Crumble, or these Caramel Apple Bars.

Don’t forget to leave a review below, and tag your cookie photos on Pinterest – I can’t wait to see your creations!

Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate)

• Calories: 110
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 5g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g

Happy baking, and here’s to the sweet flavors of fall! 🍂

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