Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Recipe

These Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Recipe are a delightful twist on the classic cookie, perfect for Fall! With a soft and chewy texture complemented by warm spices, these cookies are ideal for gatherings, cozy nights in, or as a sweet treat to share with loved ones. The unique flavors of pumpkin and brown butter make them stand out, ensuring they will be a favorite all season long!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a rich and comforting taste.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect for Fall: Embrace the season with these festive cookies that capture the essence of Autumn.
• Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, parties, or just as an everyday snack.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies remain wonderfully tender while offering a satisfying chew.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking more enjoyable and ensures your cookies turn out perfectly every time. Here are the essential tools you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Large saucepan
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Shallow bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool allows for thorough mixing without tiring your arms, leading to a smoother dough.
• Large saucepan: Necessary for browning butter effectively, which adds depth to your cookie’s flavor.
• Baking sheets: Ensure even baking and provide enough space for cookies to spread.

Ingredients

These chewy pumpkin snickerdoodles are a delicious Fall spin on the classic snickerdoodle. Soft and chewy and perfectly spiced, these cookies will be on repeat all Fall long!

For the Sugar Coating

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

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter
• 2 cups plus 3 tablespoons (270 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup (200 g) dark brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup (80 g) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 egg yolk, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon molasses (not blackstrap)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla

How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Butter

To brown the butter:
1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir occasionally; you will hear crackling as it melts.
3. Once sizzling stops, continue stirring until golden brown bits form at the bottom.
4. Remove from heat; pour into a bowl and chill for 30 minutes without letting it solidify.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Puree

While the butter cools:
1. Place pumpkin puree on a plate lined with paper towels.
2. Blot with another towel to remove excess moisture and set aside.

Step 3: Mix Butter and Sugars

Once butter is cool:
1. Add brown butter to a stand mixer bowl with granulated sugar and dark brown sugar.
2. Mix on medium-low speed until well combined; it should resemble wet sand.

Step 4: Incorporate Pumpkin Mixture

Add to the mixture:
– Pumpkin puree,
– Egg yolk,
– Molasses,
– Vanilla.

Mix until combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
– Whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, spices, and salt.

Step 6: Form the Cookie Dough

Add dry ingredients to wet:
– Mix until just combined; leave some flour streaks.
– Refrigerate uncovered for 30 minutes.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 8: Prepare Sugar Coating

In a shallow bowl:
– Whisk together granulated sugar and cinnamon for rolling.

Step 9: Shape Cookies

Once dough is chilled:
1. Use a large cookie scoop to portion out dough (approx. 2 ounces).
2. Roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture using hands instead of palms.

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Place dough balls on prepared sheets with space between them:
– Bake for 9 to 10 minutes until edges are set & tops crack slightly.

Step 11: Cool Cookies

Remove from oven:
– Let cool on pans for 5 to 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Enjoy your deliciously spiced Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodles!

How to Serve Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Recipe

These chewy pumpkin snickerdoodles are perfect for sharing and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee complements the spices in the cookies perfectly.
• Tea: A cup of chai or herbal tea can enhance the cozy fall vibes.
• Hot Chocolate: Dip these cookies into a warm mug of hot chocolate for an extra treat.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cheese Board: Include some mild cheeses and fruits for a delightful contrast.
• Fruit Compote: Serve with a side of warm apple or pear compote for added sweetness.
• Ice Cream: Pair with vanilla or pumpkin-flavored ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

For Celebrations

• Party Favors: Package them in festive bags as sweet take-home treats.
• Thanksgiving Dessert Table: Display prominently among other seasonal desserts for a fun twist.

How to Perfect Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Recipe

To achieve the best chewy pumpkin snickerdoodles, consider these expert tips that will elevate your baking game.

• Bold Butter Browning: Make sure to brown the butter until it’s golden and nutty; this adds depth to the flavor.
• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps create that perfect chewy texture and prevents spreading too much during baking.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will provide more flavor than pre-ground options, enhancing your cookies’ taste significantly.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; taking them out while still soft ensures they remain chewy.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Recipe

Pairing your chewy pumpkin snickerdoodles with delightful side dishes can enhance their appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing brings creamy richness that balances the spices in the cookies.
2. Apple Crisp: The warm, sweet flavors of apple crisp complement the snickerdoodles well, making it a cozy dessert option.
3. Spiced Hot Cider: A cup of warm spiced cider adds a festive touch and pairs nicely with fall flavors.
4. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This coffee favorite harmonizes beautifully with the pumpkin notes in your snickerdoodles.
5. Pecan Pie Bars: These bars offer a different texture while maintaining that sweet and nutty profile everyone loves.
6. Chocolate Fondue: Create a fun dessert experience by dipping cookie pieces into rich chocolate fondue.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking chewy pumpkin snickerdoodles can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Incorrect butter temperature: Using melted butter instead of browned butter can lead to cookies that lack flavor and depth. Make sure to brown the butter as described in the recipe for a nutty taste.

• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step may result in cookies that spread too much while baking. Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to ensure a chewy texture.

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long after adding the dry ingredients can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.

• Improper measuring of flour: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can compact it and lead to dry cookies. Accurate measurements are key!

• Overbaking the cookies: Baking for too long will dry out your snickerdoodles. Keep an eye on them and remove them when the edges are set but the center is still soft.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chewy pumpkin snickerdoodles in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Recipe

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this chewy pumpkin snickerdoodles recipe:

Can I make these chewy pumpkin snickerdoodles vegan?

You can substitute the egg yolk with a flax egg or another egg replacer. Ensure you use plant-based margarine instead of butter.

What is the best way to store chewy pumpkin snickerdoodles?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for prolonged freshness.

How do I make my cookies more flavorful?

Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips, or increasing spices like cinnamon for additional flavor in your chewy pumpkin snickerdoodles recipe.

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can try using whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour; however, this may alter the texture slightly.

Why did my cookies turn out flat?

Flat cookies may be due to overmixing the dough or not chilling it properly. Ensure you follow all steps carefully for best results.

Final Thoughts

These chewy pumpkin snickerdoodles are not only perfect for Fall but also wonderfully versatile. You can easily customize them by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or adjusting spices according to your preference. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy these soft and flavorful treats!