Name: Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies to Cozy Up Your Autumn Days
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 162 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted and browned); 0.75 cup Light Brown Sugar (Packed); 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar (Can substitute with coconut sugar); 1 large Egg (At room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Preferably pure); 2 tablespoons Molasses (Use sparingly); 0.5 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree (Pure pumpkin without additives); 1 tablespoon Pumpkin Spice (Blend of cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and ginger); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (For leavening); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (May substitute with gluten-free blend); 0.25 cup Granulated Sugar (For coating); 1 tablespoon Cinnamon (For coating)

The air is crisp, and the leaves are transforming into a tapestry of gold and crimson—autumn is here! As the days grow shorter and cooler, I find myself yearning for warm, comforting treats that capture the essence of the season. That’s where my Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies come in. These delightful cookies are a celebration of fall flavors, bringing together rich browned butter, velvety pumpkin puree, and a sprinkle of aromatic spices. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, but their soft and chewy texture makes them the perfect addition to any gathering or cozy night in. Imagine biting into one of these gems with a warm cup of cider or tea—absolute heaven! Ready to find out just how simple it is to create these autumn-inspired delights? Let’s get baking!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Chewy Texture: The blend of pumpkin puree and browned butter creates a soft, chewy cookie that’s simply addictive.
Autumn Flavors: Enjoy the warm scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves – the essence of fall in every bite.
Easy Baking: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers will impress family and friends with these treats.
Crowd Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, these cookies disappear fast – they’re sure to be the star of your baked goods lineup! If you’re curious for more autumn recipes to complement these cookies, check out my [Pumpkin Spice Latte](internalLink) for a cozy pairing.

Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Unsalted Butter – Provides fat and moisture, enriching the chewy texture.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses for that perfect chewy bite.
• Granulated Sugar – Helps achieve the right spread and crispness; you can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together. Ensure it’s at room temperature for better mixing.
• Vanilla Extract – Imparts a rich, aromatic sweetness; prefer pure vanilla for the best flavor.
• Molasses – Contributes moisture and deep flavor; use sparingly to avoid overpowering the cookie.
• Canned Pumpkin Puree – Delivers moisture and a delightful pumpkin flavor; select pure pumpkin without additives.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Allspice, Cloves, Ginger) – Infuse each bite with essential autumn flavors; a pre-mixed spice blend can be used if needed.
• Baking Soda – Essential for leavening and achieving the cookie’s perfect texture.
• All-Purpose Flour – The main structure-building ingredient; can try substituting with a gluten-free blend, though it might affect texture.
• Sugar + Cinnamon (for coating) – Adds both sweetness and a charming crispy texture to the cookie exterior before baking.

Dive into the world of Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies and enjoy the warmth and flavor of autumn right in your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Brown Butter
Melt ½ cup unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the butter turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. Once browned, remove from heat and let it cool for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter, ¾ cup light brown sugar, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons molasses. Using a whisk or electric mixer, blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, gently fold in ½ cup canned pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and your choice of 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice blend (including cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and ginger). Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; you want a cohesive but soft dough for your chewy pumpkin spice cookies.

Step 4: Chill Dough
Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons (28-29 grams) of cookie dough and roll into balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Cover the sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours or overnight. This chilling step is essential to achieve the perfect chewy texture after baking.

Step 5: Preheat and Coat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, prepare a cinnamon-sugar mixture by combining ¼ cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon in a shallow dish. Roll each chilled dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well coated for a delightful crispy exterior once baked.

Step 6: Bake
Line baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure even baking. Place the cinnamon-sugar-coated dough balls on the sheets, making sure they are spaced apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges look set and the centers are slightly puffy and still soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 7: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. This allows them to set before transferring to a wire rack. After completely cooling, store your chewy pumpkin spice cookies in an airtight container to keep their scrumptious texture and flavors intact.

Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added nutrition and a slightly nutty flavor.
Vegan Option: Swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Nut-Free: Omit any nuts or seeds and replace with extra chocolate chips or dried fruit for sweetness and texture.
Spice Swap: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist that keeps autumn flavors fresh and exciting.
Pumpkin Spice Latte Kit: Pair these cookies beautifully with my Pumpkin Spice Latte for a cozy fall treat that warms from the inside out.
Lower Sugar: Reduce granulated sugar by half and add a touch of honey or maple syrup for a naturally sweeter option.
Chocolate Lovers: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips or chunks for a rich, chocolaty blend alongside the pumpkin spice.
Extra Crunch: Mix in 1 cup of oats for added texture and a heartiness that complements the chewy cookie perfectly.

Embrace the magic of the season and enjoy experimenting with these delightful variations!

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies are a fantastic option for those busy afternoons when time is limited! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by scooping the rolled dough balls onto a lined baking sheet, covering them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerating them. For even longer storage, freeze the dough balls for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and roll the chilled or frozen dough balls in the cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them on the baking sheet. This ensures they maintain their delightful chewy texture and flavor—just as delicious as if they were freshly baked!

How to Store and Freeze Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their chewy texture and keeps them fresh.

Refrigeration: If you live in a particularly humid area, you can refrigerate the cookies to extend freshness for up to 10 days, but let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Dough Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough before baking for up to 2 months. Scoop the dough into balls, freeze until firm, then store in a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Expert Tips for Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough is crucial for achieving a chewy texture. Don’t skip this step to prevent spreading in the oven.
Brown Butter Care: Keep an eye on the butter while browning; it can quickly turn from perfect to burnt. Use low to medium heat for better control.
Measure Accurately: Using a kitchen scale can ensure consistent cookie sizes, helping your chewy pumpkin spice cookies bake evenly.
Fresh Spices Matter: Ensure your spices are fresh to maximize flavor. Stale spices can dull the taste, so check their potency before use.
Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for optimal spread and a perfect texture. Avoid silicone mats, which might affect baking.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies instead of that desired chewiness.

What to Serve with Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies

As you savor these delightful treats, think of the perfect accompaniments to create a cozy autumn feast.

Warm Apple Cider: The sweet, spiced notes in apple cider enhance the pumpkin flavors, making each sip a comforting complement to these cookies.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of silky vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm cookies, creating a heavenly dessert experience.
Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: The rich, chocolatey warmth pairs delightfully with the spices in the cookies, enveloping you in seasonal comfort.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai provide a fragrant and spicy contrast that complements the pumpkin flavor seamlessly.
Maple Glazed Pecan Pie: This traditional dessert brings a nutty crunch and a sweet maple flavor, elevating your autumn gathering feast.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Match the flavors of your cookies with this iconic fall drink; its creamy richness is a match made in heaven.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of velvety soup with a hint of sweetness balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For the cookie lovers, offering both chewy pumpkin spice and classic chocolate chip creates a perfect dessert platter.
Nutty Charcuterie Board: Include cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits for a savory contrast to the sweet cookies, inviting guests to snack away.
Spiced White Wine: For a touch of elegance, serve this warming sip that mirrors the notes in the cookies and delights the senses.

Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! It’s best to use pure canned pumpkin puree without any additives like sugar or spices. Look for brands that list only “pumpkin” as the ingredient. This ensures your cookies will reflect the true flavor of pumpkin without interference from preservatives or sweeteners.

How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep those delicious chewy pumpkin spice cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you live in a humid area, you can refrigerate them to maintain freshness for an additional 3 days. Always let the cookies come to room temperature before enjoying them for the best texture.

Can I freeze the cookie dough for later baking?
Yes! You can freeze your chewy pumpkin spice cookie dough. Simply scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for perfectly chewy cookies.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If you find your cookies spreading excessively, it could be due to a few factors. Ensure you chill the dough for at least 2 hours to help maintain their shape. Additionally, make sure your butter is cooled properly after browning; if it’s too warm, it can lead to spreading during baking. Using the right amount of flour also helps; make sure you’re measuring accurately!

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, the chewy pumpkin spice cookies are naturally free of nuts, making them a suitable option for those with nut allergies. However, it’s important to check all ingredient labels, especially for spices and pre-made components like vanilla extract, which may be processed in facilities that handle nuts. Adjustments can also be made readily to ensure all dietary needs are met!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Certainly! If you want to use fresh pumpkin, be sure to roast or steam it until tender, then puree it until smooth. You’ll need about 1 cup of fresh pumpkin puree, which can give your cookies a slightly different texture but will still taste fantastic! Just make sure to measure accurately to maintain the moisture levels required in the recipe.