Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Name: Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies that You'll Crave!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Posted on November 3, 2025

DESSERT

Difficulty

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Cooking time

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Introduction to Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are my go-to treat for fall. They’re not just delicious; they’re a quick solution for busy days when you want to whip up something special for your family. Trust me, these cookies will satisfy your sweet cravings and impress your loved ones. Plus, they’re so easy to make that even the busiest moms can find time to bake a batch!

Why You’ll Love This Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. They come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic afternoons. The soft, chewy texture is simply irresistible, and the warm spices will wrap you in a cozy embrace. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some pumpkin goodness, making them a guilt-free treat!

Ingredients for Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show! It adds moisture and that lovely pumpkin flavor.
Brown sugar: It gives the cookies a rich, caramel-like sweetness and helps keep them soft.
Granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s texture.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter is key for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. You can use margarine if you prefer.
Egg: Acts as a binder, helping the cookies hold their shape while adding richness.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making each bite more delightful.
All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookies, providing structure. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Baking soda and baking powder: These leavening agents help the cookies rise and become fluffy.
Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice, making these cookies feel like a hug on a plate.
Ground nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg complements the cinnamon and enhances the fall flavor profile.
Salt: Just a touch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
Chocolate chips (optional): For those who love a little extra sweetness, chocolate chips are a delightful addition!

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that will make your kitchen smell like fall.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. If the oven isn’t hot enough, your cookies might spread too much or not rise properly. So, let that oven warm up while you prepare the dough!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This process is essential for achieving that soft texture we all love. The air you incorporate while creaming helps the cookies rise beautifully, giving them that perfect chewy bite.

Step 3: Mix in the Pumpkin and Egg

Next, add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. This step is where the magic happens! The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor, making your cookies irresistibly soft.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisking is important here; it ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This will help your cookies rise uniformly and taste fantastic!

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them soft and chewy. A few flour streaks are okay; they’ll disappear as you fold in the next ingredients.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

If you’re feeling a little indulgent, fold in the chocolate chips at this stage. They’re optional, but they add a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin flavor. Plus, who doesn’t love a little chocolate in their cookies?

Step 7: Drop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread a bit while baking. Aim for about two inches apart to give them room to grow!

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden. The centers might look a little soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This step is important for achieving that perfect texture. After a few minutes, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Then, grab a cookie (or two) and enjoy the deliciousness!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Don’t skip the parchment paper; it prevents sticking.
For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop.
Let the cookies cool completely for the best texture.
Experiment with spices like ginger for a unique twist.
Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing and a smaller one for dry ingredients.
Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a whisk will do in a pinch.
Baking sheet: Use a standard cookie sheet or a stoneware pan.
Parchment paper: Optional, but it helps with easy cleanup.
Cookie scoop: A spoon works too, but a scoop ensures uniform cookies.

Variations of Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter for a plant-based version.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for an extra kick of spice that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soft cookie.
Frosted: Top with a cream cheese frosting for a decadent treat that takes these cookies to the next level.

Serving Suggestions for Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Pair with a warm cup of spiced chai or pumpkin spice latte for a cozy treat.
Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Present on a festive platter with autumn leaves for a charming display.
Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

FAQs about Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, just cook and puree it until smooth. It will work beautifully in these Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture for the best results.

How do I store these cookies to keep them fresh?

Store your Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them!

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just scoop and bake when you’re ready for a fresh batch of cookies!

What can I substitute for chocolate chips?

If chocolate isn’t your thing, try adding dried cranberries, raisins, or even white chocolate chips. They’ll add a different flavor profile to your Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies while keeping them delicious!

Why are my cookies flat?

Flat cookies can happen if the butter is too warm or if you overmixed the dough. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and mix just until combined for that perfect chewy texture!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about baking Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies. The process fills your home with warmth and the sweet scent of fall, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites everyone to gather around. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that brings back fond memories of autumn days. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to bring joy. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the season, and let these cookies become a cherished part of your fall traditions!