Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are the perfect treat for fall, bringing warmth and spice to every bite. These cookies are soft, chewy, and full of pumpkin flavor, making them ideal for cozy evenings or festive gatherings. Whether you’re sharing them at a potluck or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies will surely delight everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, molasses, and spices creates a deliciously unique taste.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, anyone can whip up these cookies.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From holiday celebrations to casual get-togethers, these cookies fit right in.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy the delightful texture that makes these cookies melt in your mouth.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them warm or store them for later; they stay fresh for days!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment will make preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer/Hand Mixer: Helps achieve a creamy batter without much effort.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining dry ingredients separately before mixing with wet ingredients.
• Cookie Sheets: Provides an even baking surface to ensure all cookies cook perfectly.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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

How to Make Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and black pepper. Set this mixture aside.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy.
2. Add in the brown sugar, molasses, and pumpkin puree. Beat this mixture for about 2 minutes while scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

1. Add the egg to your wet mixture and beat it together for about 1 minute.
2. Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add in your dry ingredients from Step 1 until just combined—be careful not to over mix.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

1. The dough will be very soft; divide it in half.
2. Wrap each half in plastic wrap. Freeze for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for at least an hour to help firm up the dough.

Step 5: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 6: Forming the Cookies

1. Place sugar in a small bowl for rolling.
2. Take one half of chilled dough and divide it into twelve equal pieces.
3. Roll each piece into a ball using your hands or a cookie scoop.
4. Roll each ball in sugar before placing it on prepared cookie sheets about an inch apart.

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

1. Press down each ball lightly with the bottom of a glass until they are between 1/4 and 1/2 inch thick.
2. Bake for approximately 12-14 minutes or until tops feel set when touched.

Step 8: Cool & Enjoy!

1. Allow cookies to cool on sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
2. Repeat with any remaining dough from the second batch.
3. Enjoy your Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies warm out of the oven!

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with cold milk for a classic treat. The creamy texture complements the spices perfectly.

Warm with Whipped Cream

• Serve warm cookies topped with whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. This adds a light, airy contrast to the chewy cookie.

Chilled with Ice Cream

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite ice cream flavor. The contrast of warm and cold creates an irresistible dessert experience.

As Dessert Sandwiches

• Create cookie sandwiches by adding a layer of cream cheese frosting or your favorite spread between two cookies. This adds a delicious twist!

Crumbled Over Yogurt

• Crumble the cookies over yogurt for a quick breakfast or snack. The spices enhance the flavor while providing a satisfying crunch.

How to Perfect Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

To make sure your cookies turn out soft and chewy every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps prevent spreading and results in thicker cookies.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
• Mix Gently: Avoid over-mixing when combining dry ingredients; this keeps the cookies tender.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake; remove them when they are set but still soft in the center.
• Store Properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

If you’re looking to complement your Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies, consider these delightful side dishes.

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte: A warm beverage that enhances the pumpkin flavor, great for chilly evenings.
2. Apple Crisp: The sweetness of baked apples pairs wonderfully with pumpkin spice notes.
3. Chai Tea: The spiced flavors of chai tea harmonize beautifully with these cookies, creating a cozy pairing.
4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A savory side that balances out the sweetness of the cookies; try adding cinnamon for extra flair.
5. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: A hearty soup that complements the warm spices found in pumpkin molasses cookies.
6. Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with maple syrup offer a delightful contrast to the rich cookie flavors.
7. Cranberry Salad: A tart salad can offset the sweetness of the cookies, making it a refreshing addition to your meal.
8. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside yogurt topped with nutty granola for a crunchy texture that pairs well with soft cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape. Always chill for at least 30 minutes.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make your cookies tough instead of soft and chewy. Mix until just combined.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements ensure the right texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring baking time: Baking for too long can lead to dry cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them once they feel set to the touch.
• Using old spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor significantly. Check expiration dates and replace any outdated spices before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet on low heat for a few minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies.

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

Yes, fresh pumpkin puree works great! Just ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

How can I customize my Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for extra flavor. Adjust sugar if needed based on your additions.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky after mixing, refrigerate it longer or incorporate a little more flour to help with handling.

Why are my cookies flat?

Flat cookies may be due to not chilling the dough enough or overmixing. Ensure you follow all steps carefully.

Final Thoughts

These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Their delightful flavor and chewy texture make them irresistible. Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins, making each batch uniquely yours!

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Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 29 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are the quintessential autumn treat, offering a delightful blend of warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor. These cookies boast a soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth, making them perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings. Simple to prepare with easily accessible ingredients, they are sure to impress at any potluck or family gathering. Enjoy them warm out of the oven with a glass of milk or as a sweet dessert sandwich with cream cheese frosting. With their irresistible flavor and comforting texture, these cookies will become a seasonal favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 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)

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Instructions

1. Whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and black pepper in a bowl. Set aside.
2. In a stand mixer, beat butter until creamy. Add brown sugar, molasses, and pumpkin puree; mix until smooth.
3. Incorporate the egg and mix for another minute. Gradually add dry ingredients until just combined.
4. Chill dough in plastic wrap for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
6. Roll chilled dough into balls, coat in sugar, and place on prepared sheets.
7. Flatten slightly and bake for 12-14 minutes until set.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (about 35g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg