Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies are the perfect treat for fall! With their delightful blend of pumpkin spice and brown butter, these cookies are soft, chewy, and full of seasonal flavor. They come together quickly and easily without the need for chilling or fancy equipment, making them ideal for gatherings, cozy nights, or just as a sweet indulgence on a crisp afternoon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No mixer or chilling time required means you can whip these cookies up in no time!
• Rich Flavor: The brown butter adds a nutty depth that perfectly complements the pumpkin spice.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy the gooeyness and chewiness that make each bite irresistible.
• Versatile Treat: Great for holiday parties, family gatherings, or as an everyday snack.
• Kid-Friendly: Fun to make with little ones—let them help roll the cookie dough in cinnamon sugar!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking trays
• Parchment paper
• Large stainless steel pan
• Glass measuring cup
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking trays: Necessary for evenly baking your cookies while allowing air circulation.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
• Large stainless steel pan: Ideal for browning butter due to its heat distribution properties.
• Glass measuring cup: Allows you to measure liquids accurately while monitoring temperature.

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!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted American butter (SEE NOTES)
– 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 cups + 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
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for rolling)

How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the 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 it closely as it foams, pops, and crackles. Stir occasionally until it turns golden brown with nutty aroma. Remove from heat once done.

Step 3: Chill the Butter

Pour just under 1 cup of browned butter into a glass measuring cup. Chill it in the fridge for about 45–60 minutes until it cools to around 70–75 F but remains liquid.

Step 4: Prepare Pumpkin Puree

Spread the pumpkin puree onto a plate. Use paper towels to absorb excess moisture until it feels dry like soft playdough, yielding roughly 1/3 cup.

Step 5: Mix Sugars into Butter

Once cooled, whisk in dark brown sugar and granulated sugar with the browned butter until it resembles wet sand.

Step 6: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Whisk in egg yolks, vanilla extract, and dried pumpkin puree until well combined.

Step 7: Combine Dry Ingredients

Fold in flour, pumpkin spice, salt, cream of tartar, and baking soda until just mixed. Set aside in the fridge for about 5 minutes if still soft.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, combine cinnamon with granulated sugar. Scoop dough into balls (about 3 tablespoons), roll each ball in cinnamon sugar before placing on prepared baking sheets spaced apart.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake one tray at a time for approximately 10–12 minutes until edges are golden brown but centers remain puffy. Cool completely on wire racks before enjoying!

Step 10: Store Leftovers

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If freezing dough balls, let them reach room temperature before baking!

How to Serve Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies are perfect for any occasion, and serving them right can enhance their delightful flavors. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these tasty treats.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with chilled milk for a classic combination that balances the sweetness of the cookies.

Warmed with Vanilla Ice Cream

• Heat the cookies slightly and serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm cookie and cold ice cream create a delicious contrast.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the cookies for an extra layer of sweetness and richness that complements the pumpkin flavor.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter alongside other fall-themed treats, like apple cider donuts or pumpkin bars, for a festive spread.

With Spiced Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy your cookies with a cup of spiced tea or coffee. The warmth will enhance the cozy flavors of cinnamon and pumpkin spice in the cookies.

How to Perfect Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

For those looking to make their Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies even better, here are some helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and pumpkin puree are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter that blends well.

• Brown Your Butter Carefully: Watch your butter closely while browning it. This step adds nutty flavor but can easily turn from perfect to burnt if left unattended.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dry results.

• Cool Butter Properly: Letting your browned butter cool adequately is crucial. If it’s too warm, your cookies will spread too much during baking.

• Do Not Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies rather than chewy ones.

• Chill Dough if Necessary: If your dough feels too soft after mixing, chilling it for a short time can help firm it up for easier handling during baking.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

While these Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies shine on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Apple Slices: Fresh apple slices add crunch and balance out the sweetness with their natural tartness.

2. Pumpkin Spice Latte: A warm pumpkin spice latte enhances the cozy fall vibes and pairs perfectly with the flavors in the cookies.

3. Cinnamon Sugar Pita Chips: These crunchy snacks bring an extra cinnamon kick that matches beautifully with the snickerdoodle flavor.

4. Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: A creamy dip made from cream cheese adds richness that pairs wonderfully with the chewy texture of the cookies.

5. Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted almonds or pecans offers a crunchy contrast to your soft cookies and adds healthy fats.

6. Chocolate Covered Pretzels: Sweet and salty chocolate-covered pretzels provide an exciting taste contrast that complements pumpkin flavors well.

7. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a refreshing side that balances sweetness and adds texture.

8. Dried Fruit Medley: Serve assorted dried fruits like cranberries or apricots; they add chewiness and tartness alongside sweet cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using warm butter: If the butter is too warm when adding it to the dough, your cookies may spread flat during baking. Always let the browned butter cool to 70-75 F before mixing.
• Skipping the pumpkin drying step: Not removing excess moisture from the pumpkin puree can lead to overly wet dough. Use paper towels to soak up as much liquid as possible for a better texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Incorrectly measured flour can affect the cookie’s chewiness. Use a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method to ensure accuracy.
• Overbaking the cookies: Baking for too long can make your cookies dry instead of chewy. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they are slightly underbaked.
• Not chilling the dough: If your dough is too soft, chilling it for at least 5 minutes can help firm it up, making it easier to handle and shape.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
• You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness, but they may lose some chewiness.

Freezing Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Freeze cookie dough balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 F and warm the cookies for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes these cookies chewy?

The combination of browned butter and properly measured ingredients creates a perfect chewy texture that melts in your mouth.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar which can alter the flavor and texture of your cookies. Stick with pure pumpkin puree.

How do I customize my Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even white chocolate chunks for extra flavor. Experimenting with mix-ins is encouraged!

Are Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! These cookies make wonderful gifts, especially during fall and holiday seasons due to their festive flavors.

Final Thoughts

Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies are not only delicious but versatile as well. With their warm spices and chewy texture, they are perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins or enjoy them just as they are!