Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies are the ultimate fall treat! With a delightful combination of brown butter, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon sugar, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply craving something sweet, this easy recipe is sure to impress. Plus, there’s no need for chilling the dough or using a mixer, making it incredibly convenient!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: No chill time means you can whip up these cookies quickly.
• Rich Fall Flavors: The use of brown butter and pumpkin spice creates a warm and inviting flavor profile.
• Perfectly Chewy Texture: These cookies are designed to be gooey and chewy, delivering that satisfying bite.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Ideal for parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in with your favorite book.
• No Special Equipment Needed: You don’t need a stand mixer; just mix by hand!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on these scrumptious cookies, gather your tools and equipment.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking trays
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Glass measuring cup
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking trays: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies to perfection.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup after baking.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

These pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies are super chewy and gooey! Each cookie is packed with fall flavors like brown butter, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon sugar. This viral recipe is a twist on my popular brown butter snickerdoodles that requires no chill time and no mixer!

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup Libby’s Pumpkin Puree (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large egg yolks (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 2/3 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (see notes for measuring)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin spice
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For Rolling the Cookies

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two baking trays with parchment paper and set them aside.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

Brown the butter over medium heat in a large stainless steel pan. Watch closely as it foams, pops, and crackles. Stir occasionally until it smells nutty and has brown bits at the bottom.

Step 3: Cool the Butter

Pour the browned butter into a glass measuring cup. Chill it in the fridge for about 45-60 minutes until it reaches 70-75°F while stirring every 20 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Pumpkin Puree

Spread the pumpkin puree on a plate. Use paper towels to soak up excess liquid until it feels dry like soft playdough.

Step 5: Mix Sugars with Butter

Once cooled, whisk together the brown sugar and granulated sugar into the butter until it resembles wet sand.

Step 6: Combine Wet Ingredients

Whisk in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and dried pumpkin puree until smooth.

Step 7: Add Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in flour, pumpkin spice, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt until just combined. Chill in the fridge for about 5 minutes if needed.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together cinnamon and sugar. Scoop dough into balls (about 3 tablespoons each) and roll them in cinnamon sugar before placing them on prepared trays spaced apart.

Step 9: Bake

Bake one tray at a time for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden brown but centers remain slightly underbaked. Allow to cool completely on wire racks before enjoying!

Step 10: Store Leftovers

Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If freezing cookie dough balls, bring them to room temperature before baking!

How to Serve Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

These chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Enjoy these cookies with a classic glass of cold milk. The creamy texture complements the chewy cookies beautifully.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Add a rich chocolate drizzle on top for an extra indulgent treat. Melt dark or semi-sweet chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies.

Pumpkin Spice Latte

• Pair your cookies with a warm pumpkin spice latte. The flavors will harmonize perfectly, making for a comforting fall-inspired snack.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite vanilla or cinnamon ice cream between two cookies. This treats everyone will love!

Fresh Fruit Platter

• Serve alongside a platter of fresh fruits. The natural sweetness of fruits like apples and pears balances the richness of the cookies.

How to Perfect Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

To ensure your chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and pumpkin puree are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and better texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: When combining ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid packing it down, as this can result in dry cookies.
• Chill the dough if necessary: If your dough feels too soft after mixing, refrigerate it for an additional 10-15 minutes to help it firm up before baking.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

While these cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Chai Tea
   A warm cup of chai tea offers spices that complement the flavors in the cookies perfectly.
2. Autumn Salad
   A light salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and pecans adds freshness to balance the sweet richness of the cookies.
3. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each cookie for an extra layer of flavor that enhances their chewiness.
4. Pumpkin Soup
   A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup makes for a cozy pairing that echoes the pumpkin theme in your dessert.
5. Cheese Platter
   Include some mild cheeses like brie or gouda which can provide a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.
6. Hot Chocolate
   For colder evenings, serve with rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to be aware of.

• Skipping the brown butter step: Brown butter adds a rich flavor. Don’t rush this step; take your time to get that nutty aroma.
• Using wet pumpkin puree: Excess moisture in the puree can lead to flat cookies. Always press out extra liquid before adding it to the dough.
• Not chilling the dough: Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape. If your dough feels soft after mixing, give it more time in the fridge.
• Overbaking the cookies: For chewy cookies, take them out while they’re slightly underbaked. They’ll firm up as they cool.
• Incorrect measuring of flour: Too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measuring.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Freeze cookie dough balls before baking for up to 3 months.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring they are well-sealed.

Reheating Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, keeping an eye on them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies.

How do I achieve chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies?

To get that chewy texture, ensure you don’t overbake them. Remove the cookies when they’re slightly underbaked.

Can I customize my chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies?

Absolutely! Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can substitute it with an equal amount of white sugar mixed with a little molasses for a similar flavor.

Are chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.

Final Thoughts

Chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their rich flavors make them perfect for fall gatherings or any sweet craving. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins!