Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion! With their gooey texture and rich flavors of brown butter, pumpkin spice, and warm cinnamon sugar, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. They are easy to make and require no chill time or mixer, making them ideal for busy bakers looking to enjoy the essence of fall with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No need for fancy equipment or long prep times—just mix and bake!
• Perfect for Fall: The combination of pumpkin spice and brown butter gives these cookies a cozy autumn flavor.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as an after-school snack, a dessert at gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence.
• No Chill Time Required: Get your cookies in the oven quickly without waiting!
• Gooey Texture: Experience the perfect chewiness that keeps you coming back for more.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will help streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking trays
• Parchment paper
• Large stainless steel pan
• Glass measuring cup
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking trays: Essential for even cookie baking; they allow heat circulation for perfectly cooked cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your ingredients effectively.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into your dough for light and chewy cookies.

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

• 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. As it cooks, it will foam, pop, and crackle—this is normal! Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once it smells nutty and has brown bits at the bottom, remove it from heat.

Step 3: Cool the Butter

Pour the browned butter into a glass measuring cup. Chill it in the fridge while stirring every 20 minutes until it reaches about 70–75°F (21–24°C). This step ensures your cookies won’t spread too much during baking.

Step 4: Prepare the Pumpkin Puree

Spread the pumpkin puree onto a plate. Use paper towels to soak up excess liquid until it feels dry like soft playdough. You should have about 1/3 cup of prepared pumpkin.

Step 5: Mix Sugars with Butter

When cooled, whisk together the brown sugar and granulated sugar into the butter until well combined—it should resemble wet sand.

Step 6: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Whisk in egg yolks, vanilla extract, and prepared pumpkin until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Combine Dry Ingredients

Fold in all-purpose flour, pumpkin spice, salt, cream of tartar, and baking soda until just combined. If needed, chill dough in the fridge for up to five minutes to firm up.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.

Step 9: Form Cookies

Scoop dough into balls about three tablespoons each. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them on your prepared baking sheets with enough space between them.

Step 10: Bake

Bake one tray at a time for 10–12 minutes or until edges are golden brown while centers remain slightly puffy. Allow cooling completely on wire racks before enjoying!

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze cookie dough balls for future baking!

How to Serve Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

These chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few creative ideas. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment of these tasty treats.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a freshly brewed cup of coffee for a comforting afternoon break.
• Hot Chocolate: The sweetness of hot chocolate complements the spices in the cookies beautifully.
• Spiced Tea: A cup of chai or spiced tea brings out the warm flavors in the snickerdoodles.

For Dessert Plates

• Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.
• Whipped Cream: Top with some lightly sweetened whipped cream for an added creamy texture.
• Fruit Compote: A dollop of fruit compote can add a refreshing twist and balance the richness of the cookies.

As Gifts

• Gift Boxes: Package them in decorative boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the fall season.
• Cookie Jars: Fill clear jars with these cookies and tie them with a ribbon for a charming gift option.

How to Perfect Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Perfecting your chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for optimal results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter, eggs, and pumpkin puree are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Skip Browning the Butter: This step enhances flavor; watch it carefully to avoid burning.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies.
• Chill Dough If Needed: If your dough is too soft, chilling it briefly can help maintain shape while baking.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Remove cookies from the oven when they are slightly underbaked in the center for perfect chewiness.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to retain freshness and moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

While chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies shine on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can create a wonderful dessert spread. Here are some side dish ideas that work well:

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite enhances the pumpkin flavor and provides a cozy beverage option.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over cookies or serve it on the side for dipping.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: These sweet treats echo the cookie flavors and add variety to your dessert table.
4. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter: Fresh apple slices provide a crisp contrast to the rich cookies, while peanut butter adds protein.
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that pair well without overwhelming sweetness.
6. Gingerbread Cookies: Offer these spiced favorites alongside for a festive twist on fall flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies turn out perfectly, steer clear of these common mistakes.

• Not measuring flour correctly – Using too much or too little flour can alter the texture. Always spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
• Using warm butter – If your butter is too warm when mixing with the sugars, the cookies may spread too much. Ensure your brown butter cools to 70-75 F before combining.
• Overbaking the cookies – Cookies continue to cook after being removed from the oven. Take them out when they are slightly underbaked for a chewy texture.
• Skipping the pumpkin puree drying step – Excess moisture in the pumpkin can lead to soggy cookies. Make sure to remove any extra liquid as instructed for better results.
• Ignoring chilling time for dough – Chilling helps firm up the dough, preventing excessive spreading. Don’t skip this step, especially if your dough feels soft.
• Not spacing cookies properly on the baking sheet – Cookies need space to expand while baking. Place them 2-3 inches apart to avoid sticking together.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep cookie dough balls in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.

Freezing Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer them to a bag once frozen.

Reheating Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350 F (180 C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies.

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can experiment with different flours like whole wheat or gluten-free blends. Adjustments may be necessary for texture.

How do I make Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies vegan?

To make them vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use vegan butter.

What can I add to enhance flavor?

Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

How long do these cookies last?

Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies stay fresh at room temperature for about 2-3 days when stored properly.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked cookie dough balls and bake them straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Final Thoughts

These Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful treat that embodies fall flavors. They are easy to make and perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Feel free to customize your batch by adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist!