Name: Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies: The Best Homemade Fall Treats
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups pumpkin puree (fresh or canned); 3 cups all-purpose flour ((spooned & leveled)); 1.5 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (*); 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 0.25 teaspoon ground ginger; 0.75 cups unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 1 cups packed brown sugar (light or dark); 0.75 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg (at room temperature); 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup; 2 teaspoons milk (or orange juice); 1.5 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 3 ounces full-fat cream cheese (softened to room temperature); 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 0.75 cups confectioners’ sugar; 2 Tablespoons pure maple syrup; 0 ground cinnamon (pinch (about 1/8 teaspoon))

Introduction to Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

As the leaves change and the cool air settles in, there's nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of freshly baked treats. Super soft pumpkin cookies capture the essence of fall in every bite, combining the earthy sweetness of pumpkin puree with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. Why make these cookies? For starters, they’re incredibly easy to bake, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.

These cookies aren't just delightful to taste; they also fill your home with an irresistible aroma that sets a cozy mood. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that feels like a hug—yes, that’s what these pumpkin cookies offer. Plus, with ingredients like pumpkin puree, you’ll be sneaking in some healthy elements while indulging your sweet tooth.

If you're looking for a fun way to embrace the season, super soft pumpkin cookies are a fantastic choice. You can even personalize them with add-ins like chocolate chips or walnuts!

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bake a batch that friends and family will be talking about long after the last crumb is gone. For more tips on maximizing flavor, check out this excellent guide on baking with spices.

Ingredients for Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Essentials for the Cookie Dough

To craft those super soft pumpkin cookies that you’ll be craving, you’ll need a few essential ingredients:

Pumpkin Puree: 1 and ½ cups (340g) of fresh or canned. Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not the spiced variety.
All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups (375g), spooned and leveled to get the right measurement.
Leavening Agents: 1 and ½ teaspoons of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of baking soda.
Spices: 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, 1 and ½ teaspoons of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of ginger for that warm fall flavor.
Fats & Sugars: ¾ cup (170g) of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup (200g) of brown sugar (dark is preferred), and ¾ cup (150g) of granulated sugar.
Egg & Flavor: 1 large egg and 1 and ½ teaspoons of pure vanilla extract for depth of flavor.

Optional: Ingredients for Maple Cream Cheese Icing

While the cookies are delicious on their own, a little icing can elevate them even more! Here’s what you’ll need:

3 ounces (85g) of full-fat cream cheese, softened
2 Tablespoons (28g) of unsalted butter, also softened
¾ cup (90g) of confectioners’ sugar
2 Tablespoons (30ml) of pure maple syrup
A pinch of ground cinnamon for a little extra spice

Feel free to get creative! Adding the optional icing will bring your super soft pumpkin cookies to voice their full potential. You can use ingredients like maple syrup to add both moisture and flavor!

Preparing Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the pumpkin puree
The foundation of any great super soft pumpkin cookies starts with the right pumpkin puree. If you're using canned pumpkin, choose pure pumpkin, not pie filling, as it contains added sugar and spices. Blot the puree with paper towels to remove some moisture—this will help achieve that delightfully soft texture. A clean kitchen towel works too, but be cautious of stains! Aim for about 1 to 1.5 cups, depending on your moisture levels. Set it aside for later.

Step 2: Preheat the oven and prep your baking sheets
Get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (177°C). While it heats up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 3: Combine the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices—pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and ginger. This evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices, ensuring each cookie is perfectly flavored.

Step 4: Cream the butter and sugars
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and both sugars on medium speed until smooth. This should take about two minutes. Creaming incorporates air, which is essential for that fluffy texture in your cookies!

Step 5: Mix in the egg and pumpkin
Add in the egg, and mix on high for about a minute. Now, it’s time to incorporate your prepared pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. The mixture may look slightly curdled, but don’t worry; it’s perfect!

Step 6: Combine wet and dry ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients from earlier to your wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined—this dough will be thick and sticky, which is just what you need for soft cookies.

Step 7: Scoop and shape the cookies
Using a cookie scoop, portion out around 1.5 tablespoons per cookie. Place the dough balls about three inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. This gives them plenty of room to spread during baking.

Step 8: Bake and cool the cookies
Bake the cookies for 14-15 minutes. You'll know they're ready when the edges are set but the centers still look soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These cookies often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Step 9: Prepare the optional icing
If you want to elevate your super soft pumpkin cookies, whip up some optional cream cheese icing. Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add confectioners’ sugar and a dash of maple syrup for sweetness. Dip the cooled cookies or spread the icing on top for an extra treat.

Now you’ve got a batch of delectable soft pumpkin cookies perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! Enjoy experimenting with flavors and toppings, and don’t forget to share your delicious results with friends and family!

Variations on Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies
Who can resist the combination of pumpkin and chocolate? By folding in about 1 and ½ cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips into the dough after mixing your wet and dry ingredients, you'll create a decadent treat that blends the rich flavor of pumpkin with gooey chocolate. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of sweetness in every bite.

Pumpkin Cookie Bars
If you prefer a quicker option, why not transform these super soft pumpkin cookies into pumpkin cookie bars? Simply spread the dough into a lined baking pan instead of scooping individual cookies, and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Once cooled, slice into squares and don't forget to top them with that irresistible maple cream cheese icing for added flair. Perfect for sharing at gatherings!

For more recipe variations and tips, check out Sally's Baking Addiction for a treasure trove of delightful baking ideas. Happy baking!

Baking notes for Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

For those dreamy super soft pumpkin cookies, achieving the right texture is key! Blotting the pumpkin puree before mixing is vital to prevent overly moist cookies. Also, be sure to cream your butter and sugars until fluffy—this helps create that light and airy texture. Finally, remember not to overmix once you add the dry ingredients; a few flour streaks are totally fine!

Storing Tips for Cookie Freshness

To enjoy your cookies at their best, store your iced cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, cookies without icing can be kept for up to a week! If you want to keep them for months, consider freezing them. Just allow them to thaw before enjoying that light, soft bite again!

For additional storage tips, check out this article by The Kitchn.

Serving suggestions for Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Pairing ideas for a cozy dessert experience

Elevate your super soft pumpkin cookies into an unforgettable treat by pairing them with a cup of rich, creamy hot chocolate or a delightful chai tea. The warming spices of chai harmonize beautifully with pumpkin, making for a cozy pairing perfect for fall evenings. For a touch of decadence, serve these cookies with a swirl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—nothing beats the contrast of soft, warm cookies with cold creaminess!

Seasonally inspired serving suggestions

Bring the spirit of autumn to your table with seasonal additions like chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top or a drizzle of maple cream cheese icing. Arrange your cookies on a rustic wooden platter accompanied by sliced apples or pears for a lovely visual and taste contrast. Consider adding tiny pumpkins or gourds as decoration for a fall-themed gathering. Want to get creative? Try making cookie sandwiches by adding a layer of maple cream cheese icing between two cookies for an extra indulgent treat!

Time details for Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Preparation time

Getting started on these super soft pumpkin cookies is a breeze! Expect to spend about 15 minutes gathering your ingredients and mixing the dough. Just enough time to pour yourself a nice cup of tea or coffee!

Baking time

Now, let’s talk about the magic of baking. Once your dough is ready, you’ll pop the cookies into the oven at 350°F (177°C). They'll need about 14-15 minutes to bake, allowing you to enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen.

Total time

In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish (minus cooling time). That’s practically a guilt-free indulgence for a treat that’s sure to bring smiles all around! For more baking tips, check out this helpful guide to make cookies easy and enjoyable. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information for Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Calories per Cookie

Each of these super soft pumpkin cookies comes in at around 150 calories. This makes them a deliciously indulgent yet manageable treat for your day. Enjoying these cookies in moderation is key—perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up!

Key Nutrients

These cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also pack some nutritional benefits:

Vitamin A: Thanks to the pumpkin puree, each cookie contributes to your daily intake of this essential vitamin.
Fiber: With pumpkin as a base, you’re also getting fiber that supports digestive health.
Healthy Fats: The unsalted butter adds a dose of good fats that can help keep you full longer.

For more insights into the benefits of pumpkin, check out this article on Healthline. Keep in mind that personal dietary needs may vary, so consider tailoring the recipe to fit your health goals!

Whether you're indulging in these cookies for a cozy night in or sharing them with friends, they’re not just tasty—they’re a delightful way to sneak some nutrition into your day!

FAQs about Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Can I use different sweeteners for the cookies?

Absolutely! For these super soft pumpkin cookies, you can substitute brown sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar or even honey. Keep in mind that using liquid sweeteners may affect the cookie texture, so you might need to adjust the flour slightly to maintain that delightful softness.

How can I ensure my cookies stay soft?

To keep your super soft pumpkin cookies fluffy and tender, avoid overbaking them. Remove them from the oven when they're still a little undercooked in the center; they'll firm up as they cool. Also, storing them in an airtight container helps trap the moisture, preserving their soft texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?

For any leftover super soft pumpkin cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to ten days. If you’ve iced them with the optional maple cream cheese icing, it’s best to refrigerate them to keep the icing fresh. For longer storage, consider freezing them! Wrap them tightly and they will last up to three months.

For more storage tips, check out sources like the USDA for food safety guidelines.

Conclusion on Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Homemade cookies, especially super soft pumpkin cookies, are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. Their warm, spiced aroma fills your kitchen with comfort, reminding us of cozy gatherings and laughter. So, roll up your sleeves and experience the happiness they bring, one cookie at a time!