Introduction

Soft pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for the fall season or any time you crave a cozy dessert. These cookies are not only soft and chewy but also packed with the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices. Ideal for sharing with friends and family, they can be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pumpkin puree – 1 cup
Granulated sugar – 1 cup
Brown sugar – 1/2 cup
Unsalted butter, softened – 1/2 cup
Egg – 1 large
Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour – 2 cups
Baking soda – 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg – 1/2 teaspoon
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Chocolate chips or nuts (optional) – 1 cup

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 15 minutes
Total Time – 25 minutes
Yield – 24 cookies

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and both sugars together until fluffy and light in color. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Pumpkin and Egg

Mix in the pumpkin puree and egg until fully incorporated. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips gently until evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.

Step 7: Scoop the Cookie Dough

Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a few inches between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Note 1: Softness of Cookies

These cookies are meant to be soft and cake-like. Do not overbake, or they will become dry.

Note 2: Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Note 3: Pumpkin Puree

Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, but ensure it is pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.

Note 4: Optional Additions

You can add nuts or other mix-ins based on your preference; just keep the ratio of dry to wet ingredients consistent.

Note 5: Variations

Feel free to experiment with different spices, like ginger or cloves, for a unique flavor profile.

Cook techniques

Using Pumpkin Puree

Incorporate canned or homemade pumpkin puree for moisture and flavor in your cookies.

Brown Butter

Brown the butter to deepen the flavor profile of your cookies, giving them a nutty aroma.

Chilling the Dough

Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes to help the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Use of Spices

Add ground spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to enhance the seasonal flavor of the pumpkin cookies.

Adjusting Baking Time

Monitor baking time closely; remove the cookies when they are set but still soft in the center for a chewy texture.

FAQ

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pumpkin can be used, but ensure it is properly pureed and excess moisture is removed.

What can I substitute for butter?

You may use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version of the cookies.

How do I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Can these cookies be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag.

What variations can I make to the recipe?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to customize the flavor and texture of your cookies.

Conclusion

These soft pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. Their fluffy texture and warm spices make them perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack or a dessert. Pair them with a hot beverage for the ultimate comfort food experience.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Pumpkin Chai Cookies

Combine the flavors of chai with pumpkin for a unique twist on the classic cookie.

Pumpkin Spice Muffins

Transform the pumpkin cookie recipe into a muffin version for an easy breakfast option.

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies

Add chocolate chips to the pumpkin cookies for a rich and indulgent treat.

Pecan Praline Pumpkin Cookies

Incorporate pecans and a praline topping for added crunch and sweetness.

Maple Glazed Pumpkin Cookies

Drizzle a maple glaze over the cookies to enhance their flavor and presentation.