Name: Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 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 cup brown sugar (packed light or dark); 0.75 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg (at room temperature); 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup (or milk or orange juice); 1.5 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 3 ounces cream cheese (full-fat brick, softened to room temperature); 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 0.75 cups confectioners’ sugar; 2 Tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon (pinch)

Introduction to Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

When the leaves start to change and the aroma of cinnamon fills the air, it’s the perfect time to whip up a batch of super soft pumpkin cookies. But why should these delectable treats be on your baking list this season?

A Treat for Every Occasion
Pumpkin cookies are not just for Halloween; they bring warmth and comfort to any gathering, from cozy family get-togethers to festive celebrations. Their moist texture and spiced flavor make them an irresistible addition to your dessert table. Plus, they are customizable—add chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist!

Health Benefits
Using pumpkin puree not only adds flavor but also enhances the nutritional profile of these cookies. Pumpkins are naturally low in calories while being high in fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants, making these delights feel a bit guilt-free. Who doesn’t want a reason to indulge?

Easy to Make
With just a handful of ingredients (many of which you probably already have), whipping up a batch of super soft pumpkin cookies feels like an effortless task. For a comprehensive guide on measuring ingredients, check out this fantastic resource on proper measuring techniques.

So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into the joy of baking these delightful cookies!

Ingredients for Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Essential ingredients for the cookies

To whip up these super soft pumpkin cookies, start with the essentials that create their comforting, warm flavor:

Pumpkin Puree: Whether homemade or canned, about 1 and ½ cups will do the trick.
All-Purpose Flour: Measure out 3 cups, ensuring you spoon and level it for accuracy.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: 1 and ½ teaspoons of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of baking soda give rise to perfectly fluffy cookies.
Spices: A blend of pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and a hint of ginger add seasonal charm.
Sugars and Butter: Cream together ¾ cup granulated sugar and 1 cup packed brown sugar with ¾ cup softened unsalted butter for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Optional icing ingredients

While you can enjoy these cookies plain, a drizzle of icing elevates them to a whole new level:

Cream Cheese: Softened, 3 ounces of full-fat brick cream cheese creates a rich icing base.
Butter and Sugar: Combine 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter with ¾ cup of confectioners’ sugar for sweetness.
Maple Syrup: 2 tablespoons add a delightful touch of flavor, while a pinch of ground cinnamon ties it all together.

Want to learn more about measuring baking ingredients? Check out this guide for expert tips!

Preparing Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Baking is not just a chore; it’s a delightful journey that can transport you straight into autumn, even if the weather suggests otherwise. Ready to make super soft pumpkin cookies that will have your friends and family begging for the recipe? Let’s get started!

Get the pumpkin ready

First things first: pumpkin preparation. Whether you’re using fresh pumpkin puree or canned, it’s essential to reduce some of the moisture for optimal texture. Blot the pumpkin with paper towels to soak up the excess. You want roughly 1 and ⅓ cups after this process. If you’ve got the time, you can even prepare this the day before, refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake. This little step can ensure soft and tender cookies—always a hit!

Preheat the oven and line the baking sheets

While your pumpkin sits, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). This ensures an even bake for your super soft pumpkin cookies. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. These affordable tools can make your cleanup process a breeze, so you can focus on the fun part—eating those cookies!

Combine the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 and ½ teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, and a mix of 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, 1 and ½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger. This step is crucial! You want the spices evenly distributed for that delightful fall flavor.

Cream the butter and sugars

In a different bowl, cream ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and ¾ cup of granulated sugar together until smooth—about 2 minutes. It’s amazing how this simple action can create the foundation for your cookies, making them fluffy and delicious.

Mix the wet ingredients

Next, mix in one large room-temperature egg, 2 teaspoons of pure maple syrup (though milk or orange juice will work too), and 1 and ½ teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. The mixture might look a bit curdled—that’s perfectly fine!

Combine wet and dry ingredients

Now, gently mix the dry ingredients into the wet ones. The dough will be thick and sticky, which is what you want for these super soft pumpkin cookies. It’s like the dough is giving you a warm hug, hinting at the deliciousness to come.

Scoop and bake the cookies

Use a cookie scoop or roll about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie, placing them three inches apart on your lined sheets. Bake for 14 to 15 minutes until the edges are set but the centers look soft. Don't fret if they seem underdone; they’ll firm up as they cool! Let them sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Make the optional icing

If you really want to elevate these cookies, consider making a simple icing with 3 ounces of soft cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of softened butter, ¾ cup of confectioners' sugar, and 2 tablespoons of maple syrup. A pinch of cinnamon will tie it all together—deliciously! You can dip or spread this sweet topping on cooled cookies for an extra layer of flavor.

And there you have it—delightfully soft, fall-flavored pumpkin cookies that could turn any gathering into a festive affair! Enjoy baking!

Variations on Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies

For a delightful twist on the classic super soft pumpkin cookies, try adding chocolate chips! Simply fold in one cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough before scooping. The warmth of the pumpkin combined with the sweet chocolate creates a comforting, cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall. You can even use dark chocolate chips to enhance the richness. Just imagine biting into a warm cookie, with gooey chocolate melting in your mouth – heavenly!

Nutty Pumpkin Cookies

If you're a fan of nuts, why not incorporate them into your super soft pumpkin cookies? Adding chopped walnuts or pecans not only adds a satisfying crunch but also brings a depth of flavor to the cookies. Simply mix in about a cup of your favorite nuts with the dry ingredients. The nutty aroma will fill your kitchen and elevate the cookie experience. For a zesty twist, you could even try adding a sprinkle of shredded coconut for texture and sweetness!

These variations not only add excitement but also allow you to personalize your cookies for any occasion. Happy baking!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Tips for perfect pumpkin cookies every time

To achieve super soft pumpkin cookies, ensure you don’t overmix the dough—mixing just until combined preserves the tender texture. Using fresh or high-quality pumpkin puree, and blotting excess moisture, can make a significant difference. For added flavor, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking; this enhances the taste and helps the cookies maintain their shape.

Storage tips for cookies

To keep your cookies fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’re icing them, you can refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze un-iced cookies, which last up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Serving Suggestions for Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Pairing Ideas for Cookies

When savoring super soft pumpkin cookies, consider enhancing the experience with delightful pairings. They complement rich flavors beautifully. Try serving them alongside:

Turkey bacon or chicken ham for a savory twist.
Warm apple slices tossed in cinnamon for that extra autumn touch.
A scoop of vanilla ice cream—this combo is irresistible!

Best Beverages to Enjoy with Your Cookies

To wash down your cookies, opt for beverages that harmonize with their warm spices. Here are some top picks:

Hot apple cider: The perfect cozy partner.
A cup of chai tea complements the spices wonderfully.
A classic pumpkin spice latte for the full experience!

These suggestions will elevate your cookie enjoyment, making any gathering feel special!

Time Breakdown for Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Preparation Time

Getting started on your super soft pumpkin cookies takes about 15-20 minutes. This is when you’ll gather all your ingredients, mix the dough, and scoop it onto the baking sheets. A little bit of planning goes a long way!

Baking Time

You'll want to set aside around 14-15 minutes for baking. During this time, your kitchen will fill with the delightful aroma of pumpkin and spices – trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Total Time

In total, you're looking at about 30-40 minutes from start to finish. This includes prep and baking, but don’t forget to let those cookies cool a bit before indulging! The good things in life always take a little time, right?

To make your preparation even smoother, consider checking out this guide on how to measure baking ingredients for accuracy! Enjoy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

When indulging in super soft pumpkin cookies, knowing their nutritional breakdown can help you enjoy them wisely. Here are the highlights:

Calories: Each cookie contains about 150 calories, making them a cozy yet manageable treat.
Carbohydrates: With around 21 grams of carbohydrates per cookie, they provide a delightful energy boost for your day.
Sugar: These cookies have about 9 grams of sugar each, striking a nice balance between sweetness and flavor without being overwhelming.

Enjoy these cookies in moderation, and savor each bite of their delicious pumpkin goodness! Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate snack experience.

FAQs about Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned?
Absolutely! You can use fresh pumpkin puree if you prefer a more natural option. Just ensure to remove excess moisture by blotting it with paper towels—this will help maintain the right texture for your super soft pumpkin cookies. A good rule of thumb is to use about the same amount as canned pumpkin, roughly 1 and ½ cups after moisture removal.

How do I know when the cookies are done?
Timing is key! Bake your cookies for about 14-15 minutes. They’ll be done when the edges look set but the centers still appear soft. Remember, these cookies continue to cook a bit on the baking sheet after you take them out, enhancing their super soft texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
To keep your super soft pumpkin cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. If you’ve iced them, you can keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for about a week. For uniced cookies, they can last up to a week at room temperature, too!

Conclusion on Super Soft Pumpkin Cookies

In summary, super soft pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat that's perfect for any season. With their moist texture and warm spices, they make an excellent addition to your dessert repertoire. Don't forget, letting them rest amplifies their flavor. So go ahead, bake a batch, and savor every bite!