As autumn rolls in and the leaves begin to change color, there’s a special charm in filling your kitchen with the warm, inviting scents of fall.
Among all the seasonal delights, nothing captures that essence quite like pumpkin cookies. To be real!
These super chewy pumpkin cookies offer a delightful blend of spices, the richness of pumpkin, and a hint of sweetness that makes them the perfect treat for cozy evenings.
Chewy Pumpkin Cookie Bliss
The first bite of these cookies transports you to a world of comfort, where every chew reveals layers of flavor.
Imagine a cookie that’s soft and chewy, with just the right amount of spice to awaken your senses.
This recipe is not just about making cookies; it’s about creating memories, celebrating the season, and indulging in the sweetness of life. FALL!!!!
Why You Should Make These Cookies
- Chewy Perfection: The secret to these cookies lies in the texture. Each bite offers a satisfying chewiness that makes you crave more.
- Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip up these cookies. The steps are straightforward, and you’ll feel like a pro in no time.
- Versatile Delight: Perfect for fall gatherings, family get-togethers, or simply a cozy night in. You can also customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make these super chewy pumpkin cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Pumpkin Cookies:
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla or whatever is your fav extract
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Spiced Sugar:
- 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Getting Started: Instructions
Follow these steps to create the perfect batch of pumpkin cookies:
1. Prepare Your Baking Environment
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This preparation will ensure even baking and easy cleanup.
2. Create the Spiced Sugar
In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice together. Set it aside for later. This delightful mixture will coat your cookie dough balls, adding a burst of flavor.
3. Dry the Pumpkin Puree
This step is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture. Spread the canned pumpkin puree on a plate and press it lightly with a paper towel to absorb excess liquid.
Repeat this process at least four more times. You want the pumpkin to go from 1/2 cup to about 1/4 cup, ensuring it’s not too wet. The right consistency is key to chewy cookies.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Setting this mixture aside will allow you to combine the dry ingredients seamlessly into your cookie dough.
5. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar on high speed for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
This step is essential as it incorporates air into the dough, contributing to the cookie’s texture.
6. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. The addition of egg yolks brings richness and moisture to the cookies.
7. Incorporate the Pumpkin
Now, add in the dried pumpkin puree and mix on medium-low speed until just combined. The pumpkin adds not only flavor but also contributes to the cookie’s chewy texture.
8. Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your cookies soft and chewy.
9. Shape the Dough
Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion the dough and roll each scoop into a ball. Next, roll the dough balls in the spiced sugar mixture you prepared earlier. This step adds a lovely sweetness and spice to the outside of the cookies.
10. Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are at least 2 inches apart. Bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes. For a softer, chewier center, aim for 12 minutes. If you prefer a slightly crispier cookie, bake them for up to 14 minutes. The cookies will puff up during baking and will fall as they cool, creating a wrinkled appearance—this is what you want!
11. Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to finish cooling. The cookies are best enjoyed after they’ve cooled for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop fully.

Storing Your Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay delicious for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Measure Flour Properly: This is crucial. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping it directly. This method prevents using too much flour, which can result in dry cookies.
- Pumpkin Consistency: Opt for Libby’s canned pumpkin puree. It has a consistency that works perfectly for this recipe, ensuring your cookies bake just right.
- Mixing Techniques: Be careful not to overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. This will help keep your cookies tender and chewy.