Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe

Imagine sinking your teeth into **Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies** that perfectly marry autumn’s warm spices with the soft, moist texture of pumpkin. These cookies are a delightful twist on the classic snickerdoodle, boasting a tender chewiness and that irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating on every bite. If you’re looking for an easy-to-make yet deeply satisfying fall treat, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for cozy afternoons and festive gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, this recipe comes together effortlessly. Each component plays a crucial role— from the browned butter that adds depth and nuttiness, to the pumpkin puree providing moisture and that vibrant fall flavor you crave.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup): Browning it intensifies the flavor and imparts a beautiful richness to the cookies.
• Pumpkin puree (2/3 cup): This keeps the cookies soft and adds natural sweetness plus moisture.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup + 1/3 cup for rolling): Balances sweetness and creates the classic snickerdoodle crisp edges.
• Dark brown sugar (1/2 cup + 2 tbsp): Adds a deep, caramel-like flavor and helps keep the cookies chewy.
• Large egg yolks (2): Makes the cookies tender and adds richness.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances the warmth and depth of all the spices.
• All-purpose flour (1 2/3 cups + 1 tbsp): Provides structure without weighing these cookies down.
• Pumpkin spice (1 1/2 tsp): The essential blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that brings the autumn vibe.
• Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps the cookies rise slightly for a soft texture.
• Cream of tartar (1 tsp): Classic snickerdoodle ingredient that adds tang and chewiness.
• Kosher salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp for rolling): Coats the cookies with that signature snickerdoodle cinnamon-sugar finish.

How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Brown the Butter

The magic starts by browning your unsalted butter in a stainless steel pan over medium heat. This step creates nutty, caramelized notes that make your cookies unforgettable. Once browned, let it cool completely to room temperature before moving on.

Step 2: Mix Sugars and Butter

Next, whisk together the cooled browned butter with both granulated and dark brown sugars. Your mixture should have a sandy texture that’s ready to trap all those fall flavors and moisture.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Eggs

Beat in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. They combine to create a luscious, thick batter that promises moist, tender cookies bursting with autumn charm.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the flour, pumpkin spice, baking soda, cream of tartar, and kosher salt. Mixing just until everything comes together keeps your dough tender and chewy, perfect for soft cookies that melt in your mouth.

Step 5: Chill and Roll

Chill the dough briefly for about 5 minutes to make it easier to handle. Then form balls and roll each one in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, creating that signature outer crunch and spicy sweetness of the Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Place the coated dough balls on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn golden and the centers are still slightly puffed. Allow to cool on wire racks to set their perfect chewy texture.

How to Serve Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Garnishes

You can keep it classic with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Alternatively, add a drizzle of cream cheese glaze to amplify the dessert feel and complement the spicy pumpkin flavor.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a steaming mug of chai tea or a rich latte, perfect for cozying up on a crisp fall afternoon. For brunch, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad to balance sweetness with brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the cookies as a centerpiece on your dessert table dusted with extra cinnamon sugar. Or, sandwich them with cream cheese frosting for a decadent twist that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your baked Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed helps retain that signature chewy softness and cinnamon-sugar crunch.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze the dough balls on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. You can bake them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked feeling, warm cookies in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes or microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This little trick revives their chewiness and aroma instantly.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly here. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar that could alter the flavor.

Why do these cookies use cream of tartar?

Cream of tartar is a classic snickerdoodle ingredient that provides a tender texture and a subtle tang, balancing the sweetness while helping these pumpkin-infused cookies stay chewy.

Can I substitute the pumpkin spice with individual spices?

Yes, if you prefer to customize, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to taste. The pumpkin spice blend just ensures that perfect pre-made ratio traditionally enjoyed in fall baking.

How do I make these cookies vegan?

To veganize, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and replace egg yolks with flax eggs or another egg substitute. Keep in mind this can change texture slightly but still yields delicious results.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Definitely. The dough can be chilled in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This actually helps deepen the flavors and firm up the dough for easier handling and rolling in cinnamon sugar.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the comfort and warmth of **Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies** to turn any day into a cozy celebration of fall flavors. Their unique blend of rich browned butter, soft pumpkin, and fragrant spices is a treat worth sharing. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a cherished favorite in your cookie rotation.

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