Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of autumn. With their rich flavors and soft texture, these cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings, enjoying with a warm drink, or simply indulging in at home. Their unique combination of pumpkin and molasses offers a comforting taste that will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, molasses, and spices creates a warm, inviting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or an afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy that perfect balance of softness and chewiness in every bite.
• Versatile Ingredient Use: Feel free to experiment with mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create these Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies, having the right tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes mixing easier by thoroughly combining the ingredients without much effort.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for mixing dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to baking sheets, ensuring easy removal after baking.

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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: Whisk Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and pepper in a bowl until well combined. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment:
1. Beat the butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
2. Add in the brown sugar, molasses, and pumpkin puree.
3. Beat for 2 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed. If using a hand mixer, mix in a large bowl.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the egg to the mixture:
1. Beat together for 1 minute.
2. Reduce mixer speed to low and gradually add the dry ingredients.
3. Mix until just combined—don’t overbeat.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

The dough will be very soft:
1. Divide it in half.
2. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap.
3. Freeze for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for at least 1 hour to make it easier to work with.

Step 5: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

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

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Put sugar into a small bowl:
1. Working with one piece of dough at a time, divide it into 12 pieces.
2. Roll each piece into a ball using your hands or a cookie scoop.
3. Roll balls in sugar before placing them on cookie sheets about an inch apart.

Step 7: Flatten & Bake Cookies

Using the bottom of a glass:
1. Press down on each cookie until they are between 1/4 and 1/2 inch thick.
2. Bake cookies for 12-14 minutes or until tops feel set.

Step 8: Cool & Enjoy

Remove from the oven:
1. Let cookies cool on sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
2. Enjoy your Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies warm from the oven!

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Enjoy these cookies with a cold glass of milk. The creaminess complements the spices perfectly.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a comforting dessert.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness and pairs well with the pumpkin flavor.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a colorful platter with seasonal fruits for an inviting presentation at gatherings.

Paired with Hot Spiced Cider

• These cookies are perfect when paired with hot spiced cider, making them an ideal treat for fall festivities.

How to Perfect Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

To ensure your Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies turn out just right, follow these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill makes it easier to handle and helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid dense cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dry ingredients just until combined to keep the texture soft and chewy.
• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices enhance the flavor; be sure to check their freshness before using.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; remove them when they feel set but still soft for the best texture.

Best Side Dishes for Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

These cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai tea enhance the fall flavors in the cookies.
2. Pumpkin Soup: A creamy pumpkin soup can serve as a savory counterpoint to sweet cookies.
3. Apple Slices with Nut Butter: Fresh apple slices dipped in almond or peanut butter provide a crunchy contrast.
4. Candied Nuts: Sweet, crunchy candied nuts offer a delightful textural balance alongside your cookies.
5. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting savory-sweet pairing with the cookies.
6. Caramel Sauce: Serve caramel sauce on the side for dipping; its richness pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people encounter challenges when making Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies. Here are some common mistakes and how to sidestep them.

• Using the wrong flour: Always use all-purpose flour for the best texture. Using whole wheat or alternative flours can alter the cookies’ consistency.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Combine the ingredients until just blended for a soft, chewy result.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step makes it harder to shape the cookies. Allow at least 30 minutes in the freezer or 1 hour in the fridge.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies and remove them once they feel set, even if they aren’t golden brown.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure you’re adding the right amounts. Too much flour can make your cookies dry.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a softer texture.
• Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat and warm each cookie for a minute or two, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies soft?

The combination of pumpkin puree and butter creates moisture, keeping these cookies soft and chewy.

Can I substitute molasses in this recipe?

Yes! You can use maple syrup or honey as alternatives, but this will change the flavor slightly.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies?

Add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or mix in chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Are Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! These cookies freeze well when wrapped properly, making them perfect for future treats.

Final Thoughts

Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. Their rich flavors make them perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to make them uniquely yours!