Bake Irresistible Chewy Pumpkin Cookies for Fall Delight

As the leaves start to change and the air grows crisp, it’s time to indulge in the flavors of the season. And what better way to celebrate fall than with a batch of irresistibly chewy pumpkin cookies? These delightful treats combine the cozy warmth of pumpkin spice with the irresistible texture of a chewy cookie. Get ready to savor the taste of autumn in every bite!

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

• ¾ cup unsalted butter (browned for extra flavor)
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• ¼ cup white sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• ¼ cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ½ cup white sugar (for rolling)
• ½ tbsp pumpkin pie spice (for rolling)

How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Brown the Butter

To add an extra layer of flavor, we’ll start by browning the butter. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Once melted, increase the heat to medium and let the butter foam and sizzle, stirring continuously, until it begins to brown and emit a nutty aroma (about 2-3 minutes). Pour the browned butter into a medium mixing bowl and let it cool completely.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In the cooled browned butter, whisk in the light brown sugar, white sugar, maple syrup, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon.

Form the Dough

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.

Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. In a small bowl, combine the remaining ½ cup of white sugar and ½ tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice for the rolling mixture.

Shape and Bake the Cookies

Scoop the chilled dough into 1-inch balls, roll them in the sugar-spice mixture, and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Flavor Enhancements for Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

While these chewy pumpkin cookies are delicious on their own, you can easily customize them to suit your taste buds. Consider adding chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch. For a touch of richness, fold in some dark chocolate chips or chunks. You can also experiment with different spices, such as ginger, nutmeg, or cardamom, to create your own unique flavor profile.

Serving and Enjoying Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

These chewy pumpkin cookies are the perfect accompaniment to a cozy cup of tea or coffee. Their soft, chewy texture and warm pumpkin spice flavors make them an irresistible treat for any fall gathering, from Thanksgiving to holiday parties. Serve them on a platter, or package them up as homemade gifts to share the taste of the season with your loved ones.

Storing and Freezing Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

To keep your chewy pumpkin cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and you’ll have a delicious fall treat ready to savor.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Pumpkin Spice Latte Cookies
• Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies
• Maple Pecan Cookies
• Sweet Potato Cookies

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do to make my chewy pumpkin cookies less cakey?

To ensure your chewy pumpkin cookies have the right texture and are not too cakey, pay attention to your flour measurement. Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid overpacking flour into your measuring cup. Additionally, reduce the amount of flour slightly or add a bit more pumpkin puree for moisture. You can also try using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour, as it has a higher protein content, which can lend a chewier texture.

Can I add protein powder to my chewy pumpkin cookies?

Yes, you can add protein powder to your chewy pumpkin cookies! When doing so, it’s best to substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with protein powder, typically about 1/4 to 1/3 of the flour amount. Be mindful that this might alter the cookie’s texture slightly, so you may need to adjust the liquid ingredients or baking time accordingly to achieve the desired chewiness.

What types of nuts work best in chewy pumpkin cookies?

For chewy pumpkin cookies, walnuts and pecans are excellent choices due to their complementary flavors. Walnuts add a rich, earthy crunch, while pecans provide a buttery sweetness. You can also experiment with hazelnuts or macadamia nuts for a unique twist. Just be sure to chop them into smaller pieces to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the cookie dough.

How can I prevent my chewy pumpkin cookies from spreading too much while baking?

To prevent your chewy pumpkin cookies from spreading excessively, chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps solidify the fats in the dough, keeping the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. Additionally, ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can result in overly flat cookies. Finally, consider using parchment paper or silicone baking mats to help maintain their shape during baking.

Conclusion

Embrace the flavors of fall with these irresistible chewy pumpkin cookies. From the rich, browned butter to the warm pumpkin spice, every bite is a cozy celebration of the season. Whether you enjoy them on their own or with your favorite fall-inspired additions, these cookies are sure to become a new seasonal favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these delightful chewy pumpkin cookies today!

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