Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are like a warm hug on a chilly day. They blend the rich flavors of pumpkin and molasses, creating a treat that is not only delicious but also comforting. Whether you’re baking for a busy weeknight, a cozy family gathering, or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to be a hit at your house.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. You don’t need any fancy equipment—just some simple ingredients and a little bit of love. I promise they’ll fill your kitchen with an aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delightful cookies ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the soft texture and sweet flavor of these cookies.
• Make-ahead option: You can chill the dough ahead of time, making baking day even smoother.
• Perfectly spiced: The combination of pumpkin pie spice and molasses creates a wonderfully warm flavor that’s perfect for autumn.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Each one plays a vital role in giving these Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies their delicious flavor and texture.

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

One of the best parts about these cookies is how flexible the recipe can be. Feel free to get creative and customize them to your taste!

• Add chocolate chips: Fold in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an extra sweet surprise.
• Incorporate nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and enhance the flavor.
• Swap spices: Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or ginger for a unique twist.
• Make them gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.

How to Make Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together your dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and black pepper—in a bowl. This step ensures that everything is evenly distributed, which leads to perfectly balanced flavors in every bite.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In your stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat the butter on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the brown sugar, molasses, and pumpkin puree. Beat this mixture for about two minutes until it’s well combined. This process helps to incorporate air into the dough, giving your cookies that lovely soft texture.

Step 3: Add Egg

Next, add the large egg into your mixture. Beat it together for about one minute until everything is well blended. The egg acts as a binder here, helping all the ingredients stick together nicely.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to mix in your dry ingredients. Reduce your mixer speed to low and gradually add in those dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our dough soft but not tough!

Step 5: Chill Dough

Your dough will be quite soft at this point. Divide it in half and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Chill it in the freezer for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for an hour. This helps firm up the dough so it’s easier to work with when shaping those adorable cookies.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This preparation keeps things moving smoothly once you’re ready to bake!

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Take one packet of dough out of the fridge or freezer at a time. Divide it into twelve pieces and roll each piece into balls using your hands or a cookie scoop for even sizes. Roll those balls in sugar before placing them on your prepared cookie sheets.

Step 8: Flatten Cookies

Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press down on each cookie ball until they’re about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Make sure there’s enough space between each cookie because they will spread slightly while baking.

Step 9: Bake

Bake those beauties in the oven for about 12-14 minutes or until they feel set to touch on top. Keep an eye on them; you want those edges slightly firm while keeping that center chewy!

Step 10: Cool & Enjoy!

Once baked, let them cool on the sheets for about five minutes before transferring them over to a cooling rack. Trust me; enjoying these cookies warm from the oven is an experience you don’t want to miss!

And there you have it! Your very own batch of Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies ready to share—or keep all to yourself! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Making these cookies is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill not only makes it easier to handle but also helps the flavors develop. A well-chilled dough results in thicker cookies that stay soft and chewy.

• Use a cookie scoop: For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop when portioning out the dough. This ensures even baking and consistent sizes, which means no overcooked or underbaked surprises.

• Don’t skip the parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper prevents sticking and helps cookies bake evenly. It also makes clean-up a breeze!

• Adjust baking time based on your oven: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. If you notice they’re browning too quickly, rotate the trays or reduce the baking time slightly.

• Store properly: To keep your cookies soft and chewy after baking, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also add a slice of bread to help maintain moisture!

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are not just delicious; they also make for a charming presentation. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying them at home, here are some ideas for serving them up right!

Garnishes

• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup adds an extra touch of sweetness and complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
• Dusting of powdered sugar: A sprinkle of powdered sugar gives these cookies a lovely finishing touch that makes them look as good as they taste.

Side Dishes

• Apple cider: The warm spices in these cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of fresh apple cider, making it a perfect autumn treat.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serve your warm cookies alongside creamy vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert that combines hot and cold sensations.
• Hot chocolate: A steaming mug of rich hot chocolate enhances the cozy experience, especially on chilly days.
• Cheese platter: For a more savory option, consider pairing your cookies with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to balance the sweetness.

Enjoy sharing these delightful treats with family and friends—they’re sure to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, ensuring that you always have a delicious treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.
• For extra moisture, add a slice of bread to the container.

Freezing

• Once baked and cooled, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

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

FAQs

If you have any questions about making these delightful cookies, we’ve got you covered!

Can I use fresh pumpkin in Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies?

Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin puree works wonderfully in this recipe. Just ensure it’s well pureed for the best texture.

How do I ensure my Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are truly chewy?

To maintain that chewy texture, be careful not to overbake them. Remove the cookies from the oven when they still look slightly underbaked; they will continue to firm up as they cool.

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

Feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for an extra flavor boost. Just remember to balance the flavors so they complement the pumpkin!

Final Thoughts

These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are more than just a dessert; they embody the cozy essence of autumn with every bite. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your cookie creations or variations; I’d love to hear how they turn out for you. Happy baking!