Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

If you’re looking for the perfect cookie to celebrate the cozy vibes of fall, look no further! These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are a delightful treat that will fill your home with warmth and that unmistakable autumn aroma. I’m telling you, they’re like little bites of happiness! Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening, hosting a family gathering, or just want to indulge in something sweet, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household.

What makes this recipe truly special is its wonderful blend of flavors. The pumpkin and molasses create a soft texture and rich taste that pairs beautifully with the spices. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These will be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for sharing: Bake a batch to share with friends or neighbors; they’re sure to brighten someone’s day.
• Make ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready for warm cookies!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of pumpkin and molasses creates an irresistible taste that captures the essence of fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookies

• 2 1/3 cups flour
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 8 Tbs butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup sugar (for rolling)

Variations

Feeling adventurous? This recipe is flexible enough to allow for some fun variations! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Add chocolate chips: For an extra touch of sweetness, fold in some chocolate chips into the dough.
• Try different spices: Experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg instead of pumpkin pie spice for a unique flavor twist!
• Make them gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
• Include nuts: Add some chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch in every bite.

How to Make Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and black pepper in a bowl. This step is essential as it ensures that all the dry ingredients are well combined. It helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the mixture so your cookies rise perfectly!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the room temperature butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Then add in the brown sugar, molasses, and pumpkin puree. Mix for about 2 minutes until everything is nicely blended together. This creaming process is important because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that lovely soft texture.

Step 3: Add Egg

Next, add in the large egg and mix together for another minute. This adds moisture and richness to your cookie dough.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Reduce the mixer speed to low and gently add in your dry ingredient mixture. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overbeat! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Your cookie dough will be quite soft; this is normal! Divide it into two halves and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Chill them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for an hour. Chilling helps firm up the dough so it’s easier to handle when you’re ready to bake!

Step 6: Preheat Oven

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper so your cookies won’t stick!

Step 7: Shape Your Cookies

Once chilled, take one packet of dough at a time. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball using your hands or a cookie scoop. Roll these balls in sugar before transferring them onto your prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Flatten Cookies

Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press down each cookie ball until they are between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch thick. Make sure there’s about an inch of space between each cookie so they have room to spread while baking!

Step 9: Bake

Pop those trays into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-14 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they feel set on top—don’t worry if they’re slightly soft; they’ll continue cooking as they cool!

Step 10: Cool Down

Once baked, let them cool on the sheets for about five minutes before moving them onto a cooling rack. This step allows them to firm up just enough without becoming too hard.

Step 11: Enjoy!

Now comes my favorite part—enjoying those warm Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies fresh out of the oven! They’re perfect on their own or paired with a cozy cup of tea or coffee.

Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

These cookies are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of autumn flavors! Here are some handy tips to help you achieve the perfect batch of Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies.

• Chill the dough longer: The longer you chill the dough, the easier it will be to handle. This helps develop the flavors and ensures your cookies are soft and chewy rather than spread out too thin during baking.

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: For the best flavor, opt for homemade pumpkin puree if possible. It has a richer taste compared to canned options, making your cookies even more delightful.

• Don’t skip the rolling in sugar: Rolling the cookie dough balls in sugar before baking adds a sweet crunch to each bite and enhances the overall presentation of your cookies.

• Check your oven temperature: Ovens can vary, so use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at 350°F. This prevents overbaking or underbaking, ensuring soft cookies every time.

• Store properly: To maintain their softness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Presentation can elevate your cookie experience from ordinary to extraordinary! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve these delicious treats.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top of warm cookies adds an enticing flavor that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie base.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla almond milk: A glass of chilled vanilla almond milk pairs wonderfully with these cookies, offering a creamy balance that enhances their spiced flavor.
• Spiced chai tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea complement the warmth of pumpkin molasses, making it a cozy pairing for autumn afternoons.
• Creamy coconut yogurt: Serve a dollop of coconut yogurt alongside your cookies for a refreshing contrast with its creaminess and slight tang.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, get ready to enjoy these delightful Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies with family and friends! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in your fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For optimal freshness, separate layers with parchment paper.

Freezing

• Once the cookies have cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies into a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies.

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Yes! Just make sure to cook and thoroughly drain your fresh pumpkin to avoid excess moisture in the dough.

How do I ensure my Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies stay soft?

The key is not to overbake them; remove them from the oven when they feel set but still soft. The chilling process also helps maintain their chewiness.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use dairy-free butter alternatives if needed, as well as swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend if desired.

What can I add to enhance my Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies?

Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits like cranberries for an extra flavor twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you have fun making these Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies! They embody the cozy essence of autumn with every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself, they’re bound to bring warmth and joy. Enjoy the process of baking, and remember: a little love goes into everything we create in the kitchen!