Name: Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies: The Best Fall Comfort Cookie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned oats; 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 2 tsp cinnamon; 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1 cup butter (melted, cooled); 1 cup sugar; 3/4 cup packed brown sugar; 2 tsp vanilla; 1 cup pumpkin puree (blotted with paper towels to remove most of the moisture); 2 cups butterscotch chips (divided)

Introduction to Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies

When the leaves start to turn and cozy sweaters emerge from the back of the closet, it’s officially pumpkin season! One delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall is by whipping up a batch of pumpkin oatmeal scotchies. These cookies are the ultimate homemade treat, offering a perfect blend of warm spices and rich butterscotch that will make your taste buds dance.

Why Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies are the Ultimate Homemade Treat

Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that’s infused with the essence of pumpkin and spiced just right. The old-fashioned oats lend a hearty texture, making each cookie feel like a warm embrace. Plus, incorporating pumpkin puree not only adds moisture but also increases the nutritional value, making these cookies a guilt-free indulgence, especially when paired with your favorite warm beverage.

The preparation is simple enough, which makes these pumpkin oatmeal scotchies ideal for both seasoned bakers and those just starting to enjoy baking. For tips on how to master the art of baking with pumpkin, I recommend checking out The Spruce Eats for expert advice. So why not bring the essence of fall into your kitchen? Roll up your sleeves and let's make some pumpkin magic!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies

If you’re ready to embrace the cozy flavors of fall, these pumpkin oatmeal scotchies are your perfect baking project! Let’s dive into the essential ingredients you’ll need to create these delightful treats.

Old-Fashioned Oats: 2 cups add that hearty texture we all love.
All-Purpose Flour: 1 ⅔ cups will give your cookies the perfect structure.
Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon helps them rise just right.
Cinnamon: 2 teaspoon brings a warm, aromatic touch.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: 1 ½ teaspoon adds an irresistible fall flavor.
Butter: 1 cup, melted and cooled, is key for that rich taste.
Sugar: 1 cup balances sweetness.
Brown Sugar: ¾ cup, packed for extra moisture and depth.
Egg Yolk: 1, at room temperature, helps bind it all together.
Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoon for a hint of warmth.
Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup blotted to remove excess moisture ensures your cookies aren’t soggy.
Butterscotch Chips: 2 cups, divided, for the ultimate flavor burst.

Ready to make these delicious pumpkin oatmeal scotchies? Let’s get baking! For more tips on using pumpkin in desserts, check out this great article on Pumpkin Recipes.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies

Baking is such a wonderful way to bring warmth and comfort into your home, especially during those cozy autumn months. If you’re looking to channel that seasonal spirit, these Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies are just the treat to make. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying soft, gooey cookies full of butterscotch goodness—in less than an hour!

Gather Your Ingredients

First things first—let's round up all the ingredients for your pumpkin oatmeal scotchies. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups old-fashioned oats
1 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 ½ tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1 cup butter (melted and cooled)
1 cup sugar
¾ cup packed brown sugar
1 egg yolk (at room temperature)
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 cup pumpkin puree (blotted with paper towels to absorb excess moisture)
2 cups butterscotch chips (divided)

Take a moment to double-check your pantry before heading to the store—believe me, nothing is worse than realizing you’re out of butterscotch chips halfway through your baking adventure!

Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients:

Old-fashioned oats
All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Cinnamon
Pumpkin pie spice

Gently stir these ingredients together until well mixed. This step not only incorporates everything evenly but also helps release the aromatic flavors that fill your kitchen with warmth as you bake. For more details on the benefits of using spices in baking, check out this healthy baking guide.

Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:

Melted butter
Sugar
Brown sugar
Egg yolk
Vanilla extract
Pumpkin puree

Mix this until it's smooth and creamy. Why is this important? A well-blended wet mixture ensures that your cookies won’t come out gritty or inconsistent. Plus, the creamy pumpkin adds moisture, which is a game changer for texture!

Unite Wet and Dry Mixes

Once both mixtures are ready, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Remember, overmixing can lead to tough cookies. We’re aiming for soft and chewy, not like hockey pucks!

When combined, fold in 1 ½ cups of your butterscotch chips for that irresistible sweetness.

Form the Cookies

Using a heaping tablespoon, drop cookie dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to flatten them slightly; these cookies won’t spread much! Then, for an extra touch, dot the tops with the remaining butterscotch chips.

Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and bake your cookies for 13-15 minutes or until their edges turn golden and the centers look nearly set. Baking is an art, so keep an eye on them! Once done, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

And there you have it—your delicious pumpkin oatmeal scotchies are ready to be shared (or enjoyed all by yourself). Happy baking!

Variations on Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies

Add-Ins and Flavor Twists

Looking to switch things up with your pumpkin oatmeal scotchies? There are endless possibilities! Consider adding:

Chocolate chips for a rich flavor contrast.
Chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.
A sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance sweetness.
Dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.

Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to create your signature batch!

Healthier Alternatives

If you want to make your pumpkin oatmeal scotchies a bit lighter, try these healthier options:

Substitute half the butter with applesauce or Greek yogurt.
Use whole grain flour instead of all-purpose for extra fiber.
Replace sugars with coconut sugar or honey for a lower glycemic index.

These modifications keep the essence of the cookies while making them a bit more health-conscious. Enjoy the process and experiment with your favorites! For more cookie ideas, check out this amazing resource.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies

When making Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies, a few simple tips can elevate your baking game. First, don’t forget to blot your pumpkin puree with paper towels to remove excess moisture; this ensures the cookies maintain the perfect chewy texture. Remember, overmixing can lead to tough cookies—mix just until combined for that soft, tender bite.

Feel free to substitute some of the butterscotch chips with chocolate chips for a fun twist. Additionally, if you love texture, adding chopped nuts can create a delightful crunch. Bake until golden for the best results, and enjoy these seasonal treats with a comforting cup of tea or coffee!

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies

When it comes to enjoying your delicious pumpkin oatmeal scotchies, the magic doesn’t have to stop at just cookies. Here are a few creative serving ideas to elevate your cookie experience:

Pair with Tea or Coffee: These cookies are perfect alongside a warm cup of your favorite brew. The spices blend beautifully with chai or pumpkin spice lattes.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Take your cookies to the next level! Sandwich a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream between two pumpkin oatmeal scotchies for an indulgent treat.
Serve on a Cozy Gathering Table: Set them out at your next fall gathering for guests to enjoy. Whether it's a game night or a casual get-together, these cookies are a crowd favorite.

Curious to explore more ideas? Check out insightful tips at Food Network on enhancing your cookie presentations!

These simple suggestions not only complement the flavors of your cookies but also create delightful experiences that make pumpkin oatmeal scotchies even more special. What will you try first?

Time Breakdown for Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies

Preparation Time
Getting your kitchen ready for these delicious pumpkin oatmeal scotchies is quick and easy! You'll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and mix up the dough. Pro tip: measure everything out ahead of time for an even smoother process.

Baking Time
Once your dough is ready, it's time to bake! The actual baking will take about 13-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies; you want them golden at the edges, and the centers almost set. That perfect timing will yield cookies that are soft and chewy in the middle.

Total Time
From start to finish, including prep and baking, you’re looking at around 30 minutes. That’s right—just half an hour to create these delightful cookies that are perfect for sharing or indulging in yourself. Who said baking had to be time-consuming?

If you're excited to bake these, grab your ingredients, and check out the full recipe for more details! For tips on baking techniques, you can visit King Arthur Baking for expert advice.

Nutritional Facts for Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies

When enjoying pumpkin oatmeal scotchies, it's good to know what you're nibbling on! Here’s a quick breakdown of their nutritional profile:

Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie, making them a delightful treat without going overboard.
Carbohydrates: Each cookie packs around 22 grams, providing that comforting energy boost.
Sugars: With about 9 grams of sugar, these cookies strike a pleasing balance between sweetness and flavor.

For more detailed nutrition information, consider checking out resources like NutritionData or MyFitnessPal.

Understanding the nutritional content allows you to enjoy these fall-inspired cookies guilt-free, knowing they’re both delicious and satisfying! Looking for more creative ways to use pumpkin in your baking? Discover other tasty recipes that highlight this versatile ingredient.

FAQs about Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Absolutely! To make pumpkin oatmeal scotchies vegan, you can substitute the egg yolk with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit to thicken). Use a plant-based butter alternative in place of regular butter, and ensure your butterscotch chips are dairy-free.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?

To keep your pumpkin oatmeal scotchies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last about a week, but trust me, they'll be gone long before that! If you include a slice of bread in the container, it helps maintain moisture.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies?

Yes, freezing is a great option if you’d like to enjoy these cookies later! Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready for a sweet treat!

For more tips on baking storage, check out articles from The Kitchn.

Conclusion on Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies

In summary, these pumpkin oatmeal scotchies are a delightful twist on the classic cookie that perfectly blends the warm flavors of fall with the gooey sweetness of butterscotch chips. Perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings, they are sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy baking!