How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Cookies - A Delicious Fall Recipe for Any Occasion
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, the allure of pumpkin flavors becomes almost irresistible. One of my favorite treats to whip up during this cozy season is chewy pumpkin cookies. These cookies are soft, spiced, and completely satisfying, making them perfect for fall celebrations or as a delightful snack any time of day. I’m excited to share my go-to recipe that promises cookies so delicious they will vanish quickly!
Ingredients You'll Need
To create these amazing chewy pumpkin cookies, gather the following ingredients:
113g butter, melted
165g light brown sugar
1 large egg
2 tsp (10ml) honey
1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
80ml pumpkin puree
180g plain flour
1 tsp pumpkin spice
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
You might also want to include some optional add-ins for extra flavor and texture:
50g chocolate chips, for a rich, sweet surprise in every bite
50g chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a nice crunchy contrast
30g dried cranberries, to introduce a burst of tartness
By having these items ready, you'll be able to streamline your cookie-making adventure and focus on enjoying the process.
Mixing the Batter
Start by mixing your wet ingredients together. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and light brown sugar. The butter adds a rich flavor while the brown sugar provides a wonderfully chewy texture.
Next, add the egg, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture well until everything is combined smoothly. Now, let’s bring in the star of the recipe: pumpkin puree. This not only gives flavor but also adds moisture, resulting in a deliciously soft cookie.
Now, it's time to mix in the dry ingredients. Add the baking soda, salt, and pumpkin spice. The spices will quickly fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting scent.
Finally, gently fold in the plain flour. If you chose to include any optional ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or cranberries, now is the moment to add them in!
Chill the Dough
For perfectly textured chewy pumpkin cookies, chill your dough for at least 30 minutes. This chilling process firms up the dough and enhances the flavors, making every bite more enjoyable.
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to Gas Mark 4 / 177°C / 350°F, and line your baking trays with baking paper. Preparing your baking sheets ahead of time ensures a seamless transition from mixing to baking!
Shaping and Baking
Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the fridge and divide it into 12 equal balls. If you love an extra hint of sweetness, roll each ball in cinnamon sugar before placing them on the lined baking trays. Make sure to leave about 5cm between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking.
Now, it’s time to bake! Place your trays in the oven and set a timer for 9 to 12 minutes. You'll know the cookies are ready when they are golden brown around the edges.
After removing them from the oven, let the chewy pumpkin cookies cool on the tray for about 2 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a cooling rack to finish cooling completely.
Savor the Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
Once they have cooled, these cookies can be enjoyed right away, but they also store well in an airtight container for up to one week. If you're like me and find it hard to resist the warm pumpkin goodness, don't hold back—enjoy every last bite fresh from the oven.
These tasty chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect for gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or even as a fun treat for Halloween-themed parties. They are not just a dessert; they capture the warm essence of fall in every bite, leaving everyone wanting more.
Final Thoughts
Making chewy pumpkin cookies is not only a delightful baking experience but also a perfect way to fill your home with the comforting scents of autumn. With just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you can create something truly special that everyone will love.
So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones this fall? Try this recipe, and I'm confident that you'll be making these cookies time and time again. I'd love to hear how yours turn out or any creative twists you come up with along the way!
Happy baking!
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