As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s a familiar urge to bring the warmth of the season into our kitchens. It was during one of those brisk autumn afternoons, with the scent of cinnamon lingering in the air, that I discovered the magic of Chewy Pumpkin Cookies. These delightful treats are a love letter to fall—each bite is a perfect blend of soft, chewy texture and the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices.

After a long day or a cozy gathering with friends, these cookies become a comforting solution, effortlessly easy to whip up while feeling like a special indulgence. Enhanced by the nutty depth of browned butter and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, these cookies are versatile and customizable, inviting you to experiment with chocolate chips or nuts if the mood strikes. Get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of fall—let’s bake these Chewy Pumpkin Cookies that truly burst with the season’s spirit!

Why Are Chewy Pumpkin Cookies a Fall Favorite?

Embrace the season: These cookies are a celebration of fall, delivering warmth and comfort in every bite.
Effortlessly easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can master this recipe, making it perfect for busy days.
Rich, nutty flavor: The browned butter elevates the taste, adding a luscious depth that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
Customizable options: Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a personalized touch, ensuring every batch is unique.
Perfect for sharing: Whether at potlucks or cozy gatherings, these cookies invite smiles and compliments, bringing people together to enjoy the warmth of the season.

Chewy Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Use browned butter for a nutty flavor that enhances the cookies.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and caramel notes, making the cookies extra chewy.
White Sugar – Balances sweetness and contributes to a slight crunch on the outside.
Large Egg Yolk – Enriches the dough and helps hold everything together.
Vanilla Extract – Boosts the sweetness and adds depth, making these Chewy Pumpkin Cookies even more delightful.
Maple Syrup – Introduces a subtle complexity and warmth, complementing the pumpkin flavor.
Pumpkin Puree – The star of the show, providing moisture and that iconic pumpkin taste.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – A blend of spices that enriches the fall flavor profile, encapsulating the season.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and sweetness without overpowering, perfectly harmonizing with the other ingredients.
All-Purpose Flour – Ensures the cookies maintain their structure; opt for fresh flour for best results.
Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise, giving them that perfect chewy texture.
Baking Powder – Works alongside baking soda to contribute to the cookies’ chewy goodness.
Kosher Salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.

For Rolling

White Sugar – Creates a sweet, sugary crust that adds to the delight of each bite.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds an extra layer of fall flavor when rolling, making these cookies even more festive.

How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Brown the Butter: Melt unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Swirl occasionally until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the cooled brown butter with light brown sugar, white sugar, maple syrup, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until smooth and fully combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, kosher salt, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon. This ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
Form the Dough: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance the chewy texture.
Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Scoop, Roll, and Bake: Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, form dough balls and roll them in a mixture of white sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Bake for 10-14 minutes until the edges are set and the centers appear slightly underbaked.

Optional: For an extra festive touch, sprinkle chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough before chilling.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Chewy Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for snacking anytime!

Refrigerator: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies in a sealed container for up to 1 week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: Freeze the cookies in an airtight container or resealable bag for up to 3 months. Layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking, and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: To bring back that fresh-baked flavor, reheat chilled or frozen cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy them warm for that delightful fall taste!

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first four steps of the recipe. After mixing your wet and dry ingredients, simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly, then scoop, roll, and bake as directed. For even more convenience, you can also freeze the formed cookie balls for up to 3 months. Just roll them in sugar and spice before placing them on a baking sheet. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes if needed, for delightful cookies that taste fresh and homemade!

Tips for the Best Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Cool the Butter: Always let the browned butter cool before mixing it with the sugars to prevent cooking the egg yolk in your Chewy Pumpkin Cookies.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes; this step is vital for achieving that perfect chewy texture while preventing spread during baking.
Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure each cookie is the same size. This guarantees even baking so that every Chewy Pumpkin Cookie comes out just right.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should look slightly underbaked in the center. They will continue to set while cooling, ensuring a soft, chewy interior.
Optional Mix-ins: Feel free to experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts, enhancing flavors and textures to make each batch of Chewy Pumpkin Cookies your own.

What to Serve with Chewy Pumpkin Cookies?

Pair these delightful cookies with some comforting accompaniments to create a cozy fall experience that warms the heart and soul.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts perfectly over the warm cookies, enhancing their rich flavors. The combination is a comforting nod to your favorite autumn desserts.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warming spices in a homemade chai latte complement the flavors in the cookies splendidly. Sip while enjoying the cookies for an inviting afternoon treat.
Apple Cider: Sweet and crisp, a glass of apple cider captures autumn’s essence and pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and spice notes in the cookies. It’s like a hug in a cup!
Cream Cheese Frosting: A dollop of tangy cream cheese frosting adds a luscious creaminess that counters the cookie’s richness while elevating the flavor harmony. It’s a delightful twist on your cookie experience!
Maple Pecan Coffee: Brew a cup of maple pecan coffee to enhance the hint of maple syrup in the cookies. The nutty aroma rounds out the cozy flavors, making each bite even more heartwarming.
Dark Chocolate: A few pieces of dark chocolate or chocolate chips scattered on top provide a deliciously rich contrast, ensuring each bite is an explosion of flavors, perfect for those chocolate lovers!

With these delightful pairings, you’ll create not just a snack, but a heartwarming moment to share during those golden fall days.

Chewy Pumpkin Cookies Variations

Get ready to make these delightful cookies your own with exciting twists that will make every batch memorable!

Coconut Sugar: Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar for a healthier, lower-glycemic option that adds a hint of caramel flavor.
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to introduce a satisfying crunch that complements the soft texture of the cookies beautifully.
Dried Fruit: Add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy, fruity burst that pairs perfectly with the warm spices.
Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate chocolate chips or chunks for an indulgent treat that balances the pumpkin’s earthiness with sweet, melty goodness.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a delightful alternative that still retains that chewy texture.
Spicy Twist: Enhance your spice game by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of warmth and depth.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple glaze over cooled cookies for a sweet finishing touch that infuses even more flavor and adds visual appeal.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Mix in a splash of espresso powder to provide a unique coffee flavor that beautifully complements the pumpkin and spices.

Chewy Pumpkin Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for in ripe pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for a rich, vibrant orange color without any browning or dark spots. The texture should be smooth, not watery, indicating it’s fresh. If using fresh pumpkins, select smaller ones labeled “sugar pumpkins” as they are sweeter and more flavorful.

How should I store my baked Chewy Pumpkin Cookies?
Very simple! Store your Chewy Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their chewy texture. If you’re looking to preserve them for a longer time, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, just let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

Can I freeze my Chewy Pumpkin Cookies, and if yes, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, layer them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat for 10-15 seconds in the microwave to restore their chewy goodness.

What can I do if my Chewy Pumpkin Cookies turn out too dry?
Very manageable! If your cookies come out dry, it might be due to overbaking or an inaccurate measurement of flour. Make sure to spoon flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping it directly. If you find yourself with dry cookies, try adding a small drizzle of maple syrup or a dash of pumpkin puree on top when reheating to reintroduce moisture.

Are these Chewy Pumpkin Cookies safe for pets?
Absolutely not! While pumpkin itself is safe for dogs in moderation, these Chewy Pumpkin Cookies contain sugar and spices that may not be suitable for your pets, especially cinnamon, which can be harmful in large amounts. Always avoid feeding your pets human baked goods to ensure their health and safety.

Can I customize the ingredients in my Chewy Pumpkin Cookies?
Very much so! This recipe is incredibly flexible. You can swap out light brown sugar for coconut sugar for a healthier option, or add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried cranberries to give each batch a twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider increasing the cinnamon or even adding a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that captures the essence of fall.