Name: Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies: The Best Fall Treats
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 132 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (browned and cooled); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup dark brown sugar (packed); 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for rolling); 2/3 cup Libby's Pumpkin Puree (room temperature); 2 large egg yolks (room temperature); 1 2/3 cup 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; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for rolling)

Introduction to Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Fall is upon us, and with it comes the aromatic embrace of all things pumpkin. This season, indulge in the delicious combination of flavors with Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies. These soft, cinnamon-dusted delights are not just cookies; they encapsulate the very essence of autumn in every bite.

Why are Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies the ultimate fall treat?

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, chewy cookie that perfectly blends pumpkin spice and cinnamon sugar. The sweetness of pumpkin puree paired with the warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg makes for a truly delectable experience. Plus, snickerdoodles are known for their unique texture—soft yet slightly crispy on the edges, creating the perfect contrast that keeps you coming back for more.

Did you know that pumpkin is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients? This superfood is rich in vitamins A and C, making your cookie cravings a little less guilty! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to elevate your cozy evenings at home, these cookies are sure to impress.

Ready to try this fantastic recipe? Let’s get baking and fill your kitchen with delightful aromas that scream "fall"! Check out the full recipe for these irresistible Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies below.

Ingredients for Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Creating the perfect Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies begins with gathering the right ingredients. Each element plays a unique role in achieving that delightful texture and flavor, so let’s dive into what you’ll need!

Essential ingredients you'll need

1 cup unsalted butter – For that rich, buttery base.
⅔ cup Libby's Pumpkin Puree – This gives moisture and that warm pumpkin flavor. Make sure it’s room temperature!
½ cup granulated sugar – For just the right amount of sweetness.
½ cup + 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar – Packed for a deeper flavor profile.
2 large egg yolks – They bring richness to the cookies.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – A must for that classic cookie aroma.
1 ⅔ cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Forms the structure of your cookies.
1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin spice – The heart of the pumpkin flavor.
1 teaspoon baking soda and 1 teaspoon cream of tartar – These create that perfect chewiness.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – To enhance the overall flavors.

Optional ingredients for a twist

Chopped nuts – Such as pecans or walnuts for some crunch.
Chocolate chips – Because who doesn’t love a little chocolate?
Dried cranberries or raisins – For a fruity contrast to the pumpkin.

Feel free to mix and match these optional goodies to create your unique take on these Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies. Don’t hesitate to get a little adventurous!

Step-by-step Preparation of Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Preheat the oven and prepare your baking trays

First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 350°F (180°C). While it warms up, take two baking trays and line them with parchment paper. This little step ensures that our Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies don’t stick and makes for easier cleanup later. It’s always a good idea to have everything prepped and ready to go, so when you start mixing, you can keep the flow going without interruptions.

Brown the butter for that nutty flavor

Now, let’s add another layer of deliciousness by browning the butter! Heat 1 cup of unsalted butter in a medium-sized stainless steel pan over medium heat. As it melts, you’ll notice it foaming and popping—that’s totally normal! Keep stirring occasionally as it cooks. After a few minutes, it will turn a lovely golden-brown color, releasing an amazing nutty aroma. When you see those brown bits forming at the bottom, remove it from heat and transfer it to a glass measuring cup. You want it to cool to about 70-75°F—this keeps the cookies from spreading too much.

Soak up excess moisture from the pumpkin puree

Let’s work with our key flavor: pumpkin! Spread ⅔ cup of Libby’s Pumpkin Puree on a plate and take some paper towels to soak up the excess moisture. This will help achieve that perfectly chewy cookie texture. After a few rounds of blotting, you want the pumpkin to feel like soft playdough and measure around ⅓ cup. This little tip makes a huge difference in the final result!

Combine the sugars and whisk in the egg yolks

Once your butter has cooled, it's time to make it sweet! In a large bowl, whisk together the dark brown sugar and granulated sugar with the browned butter. You want this mixture to resemble wet sand—when you’ve got that down, whisk in 2 large egg yolks and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. This is where the magic happens!

Fold in the dry ingredients and chill the dough

Now, it’s time to fold in the dry ingredients—1 ⅔ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of pumpkin spice, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon cream of tartar, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Mix until just combined, then pop the bowl in the fridge for about 5-10 minutes to firm up the dough.

Roll the dough balls in cinnamon sugar

In a small bowl, combine ⅓ cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Take out your chilled dough and scoop about 3 tablespoons for each cookie ball. Roll these in your lovely cinnamon sugar mixture before placing them on your prepared baking trays, leaving room for them to spread.

Bake to perfection and cool them down

Finally, bake your cookies one tray at a time for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden brown and the centers remain puffy—trust the process! Once baked, let them cool completely on a wire rack. Enjoy your delicious Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies with a warm beverage of your choice!

These cookies are not just a treat but a delightful experience—perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!

Variations on Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Add-ins for Extra Flavor

Elevate your Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies by incorporating various add-ins. Consider tossing in:

Chocolate chips – A blend of semi-sweet or even white chocolate complements the pumpkin flavor.
Chopped nuts – Walnuts or pecans bring a delightful crunch.
Dried fruits – Raisins or cranberries can add a touch of sweetness.

These simple additions can transform your cookies and cater to diverse taste preferences!

Alternative Spices for a Unique Twist

If you're looking to customize your Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies, experimenting with different spices can make a world of difference. Try substituting:

Cardamom for a fragrant, citrusy kick.
Ginger for added warmth and spice.
Nutmeg for a cozy fall aroma.

These alternatives not only enhance flavor but also create a unique aroma that fills your kitchen with the essence of fall. Exploring these variations turns a classic recipe into something uniquely yours!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Importance of Cooled Butter

Using cooled butter is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies. When you brown the butter, it adds amazing flavor, but cooling it down to about 70-75°F ensures it integrates well with your other ingredients. If the butter is too warm, you might end up with cookies that spread too much, leading to a flat, less chewy result. So, make sure to keep an eye on that temperature!

Tricks for Perfect Cookie Texture

To ensure your cookies are delightfully chewy, try these tips:

Measure Flour Carefully: Use the spoon-and-level method or even better, weigh your flour if you have a kitchen scale. This prevents over-measuring and maintains the dough's right consistency.
Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft, don’t hesitate to pop it in the fridge for a few extra minutes before baking. This helps solidify the fats and yields thicker cookies.
Adjust Baking Time: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your cookies; remove them when they’re slightly underbaked for that extra chewy texture.

These small adjustments can make a big difference in your baking outcomes. For additional tips, check out expert advice from sites like America's Test Kitchen. Enjoy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Pairing with Beverages

To elevate your Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies, consider pairing them with a warm cup of chai tea or a spiced apple cider. These beverages complement the cookie's pumpkin spice flavors beautifully, creating a cozy experience. If you're feeling adventurous, try serving them with a rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. Perfect for those chilly evenings!

Creative Serving Ideas

Introduce a touch of whimsy to your cookie time by forming fun cookie sandwiches. Simply spread cream cheese frosting between two cookies for a delightful twist. You might also want to serve your cookies on a wooden platter with a sprinkle of cinnamon as a centerpiece for your next gathering. For a more festive touch, incorporate seasonal decorations, making your Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies a visual delight! Want to learn more about cookie pairings? Check out this guide on dessert pairings.

Time Breakdown for Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Preparation time
Start by allowing approximately 1 hour for prep. This includes browning the butter, soaking the pumpkin puree, and chilling the dough. It’s a labor of love that pays off in delicious cookies!

Baking time
Your Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies will need 10-12 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on them—the perfect batch will be golden around the edges and slightly puffy in the middle.

Cooling time
Once baked, let the cookies cool on a wire rack for about 30 minutes. This allows them to set perfectly while you resist the temptation to munch on them right away! For more tips on cooling cookies, check out this detailed guide for ideal results.

Nutritional Facts for Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Calories

Each Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookie contains approximately 120 calories. This makes them a delightful treat that doesn’t derail your day, especially when enjoyed in moderation.

Sugar Content

With roughly 10 grams of sugar per cookie, these delectable snacks will satisfy your sweet tooth while incorporating the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spice.

Important Nutrients

These cookies offer a nice balance of essential nutrients. They provide micronutrients such as:

Vitamin A from pumpkin puree, which supports vision and immune function.
Iron and calcium, important for metabolic function and bone health.
Dietary fiber thanks to the pumpkin, which can help with digestion.

For more insights into the health benefits of pumpkin, check out this nutrition article. Enjoy your tasty cookies while being mindful of their nutritional value!

FAQs about Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Can I substitute the butter for a dairy-free option?

Absolutely! You can replace the unsalted butter in Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Just be sure to melt your dairy-free option before mixing it with the sugars to achieve that delightful, chewy texture.

How long do these cookies last?

These cookies can last for about 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. However, I recommend consuming them within the first couple of days for optimal freshness. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to three months!

Can I freeze the dough for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the dough! Simply scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze for about 30 minutes before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, let them thaw at room temperature and then pop them in the oven as per the recipe instructions. It’s a great way to have Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies on hand whenever the craving strikes!

For more baking tips, check out our guide on freezing cookie dough.

Conclusion on Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

There's nothing quite like Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies to embrace the cozy vibes of fall. Their perfect balance of spice and sweetness makes them irresistible! Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or shared with friends, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Happy baking!