Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that captures the essence of fall, then you’ve come to the right place! These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are like a warm hug on a chilly day. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you need a sweet treat or family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds. Trust me, once you bake these little gems, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home!

There’s just something magical about the combination of pumpkin and molasses. The flavors blend together beautifully, making these cookies not only delicious but also incredibly comforting. Get ready to share this delightful recipe with your loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even novice bakers can whip these up.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike rave about these cookies, making them a hit for everyone around the table.
• Make-Ahead Delight: The dough can be frozen or chilled, so you can prepare it ahead of time for those unexpected cravings.
• Irresistible Flavor: The mix of pumpkin spice and molasses creates a flavor that’s warm and inviting—just like autumn itself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delightful cookies. You probably have most of them in your kitchen already!

Dry Ingredients

• 2 1/3 cups flour
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Wet Ingredients

• 8 Tbs butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg

For Rolling

• 1/2 cup sugar

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Chocolate Chips: Toss in some dark chocolate chips for an extra indulgent cookie experience.
• Use Different Sweeteners: Swap out brown sugar with coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Include Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the cookies.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with spices like ginger or cinnamon for an even more aromatic treat.

How to Make Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and black pepper in a bowl. This step is crucial as it ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. A well-mixed dry base helps create a consistent texture in your cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In your stand mixer (or a large bowl if you’re using a hand mixer), beat the butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Then add in the brown sugar, molasses, and pumpkin puree. Beat this mixture for about two minutes until it’s combined beautifully—this is where all that rich flavor comes from!

Step 3: Incorporate the Egg

Add in your large egg and continue beating for one minute. This step adds moisture and helps bind everything together.

Step 4: Combine with Dry Ingredients

Reduce the mixer speed to low before adding in your dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; you don’t want to overbeat here! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Your dough will be very soft at this point—no worries! Divide it into two halves and wrap each half in plastic wrap. Chill in the freezer for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for an hour. Chilling makes it easier to handle later on.

Step 6: Preheat Your Oven

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly without sticking!

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Once chilled, take one packet of dough at a time and divide it into 12 pieces. Roll each piece into a ball using your hands or cookie scoop. Roll each ball in sugar before placing them on the cookie sheets about an inch apart.

Step 8: Flatten Them Out

Using the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each cookie ball until they are between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch thick. This helps them spread evenly while baking.

Step 9: Bake Them Up!

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-14 minutes or until they feel set to touch at the top. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 10: Cool Down

After baking, let them cool on the sheets for five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This waiting period allows them to set perfectly.

Step 11: Enjoy!

Finally, enjoy these delicious cookies warm out of the oven with your favorite beverage or save some for later—if they last that long!

Pro Tips for Making Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Baking can sometimes feel daunting, but with these tips, you’ll be on your way to cookie perfection!

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill not only makes it easier to handle but also enhances the flavors. The longer it sits, the better your cookies will taste.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: If you have the time, using fresh pumpkin puree can add a more vibrant flavor compared to canned options. Just roast and blend your pumpkin for a fresher taste!

• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than the soft and chewy texture we crave.

• Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can be tricky! Always consider using an oven thermometer to ensure your temperature is accurate. This helps achieve that perfect bake every time.

• Store Properly: To keep your cookies soft and chewy longer, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The moisture from the bread helps maintain their delightful texture.

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

These cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with a warm drink. Here are some fun ways to present them!

Garnishes

• Drizzle of Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
• Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting gives these cookies a lovely finish and makes them feel extra special.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Hot Apple Cider: Nothing says fall like a warm cup of apple cider! Its sweet and spiced notes pair wonderfully with the flavors in your cookies.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream serves as a creamy counterpart to the warm spices in your cookies, making for a delightful dessert experience.
• Pumpkin Spice Latte: For coffee lovers, this seasonal favorite amplifies the pumpkin flavor and provides a cozy beverage pairing.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or gouda offers a savory balance to the sweetness of your cookies, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas at hand, it’s time to get baking! Enjoy every delicious bite of your Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Shape the cookie dough into balls as per the recipe instructions.
• Place the cookie dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

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

FAQs

If you have any questions about making these delightful cookies, you’re in the right place!

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

Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin puree works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s well-pureed and not too watery.

How do I make my Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even mixing in some chocolate chips. A pinch of nutmeg can also add warmth!

Can I substitute the molasses in these cookies?

Yes! If you don’t have molasses, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup. The flavor will differ slightly but will still yield delicious results.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you find joy in making these Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies! They capture the essence of fall and are sure to bring warmth and sweetness to your home. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them solo with a warm cup of tea, these cookies are bound to be a favorite. Happy baking!