Name: Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: ½ cup butter (softened, salted); ½ cup white sugar; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla; ½ cup pumpkin puree (blot the pumpkin with a paper towel, see notes for more details.); 1 cup flour; ¾ cup rolled oats (sometimes these are called 'old fashioned oats'); ½ teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; ½ teaspoon nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

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There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen, and nothing hits the spot quite like Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. As the leaves begin to turn and the air becomes crisp, I find myself craving the warm, comforting flavors of fall. These cookies have become a staple in my home during the autumn months. Every time I take a batch out of the oven, I’m transported back to my childhood, where we would gather around the kitchen table, sharing stories and laughter over warm treats. The combination of pumpkin and oats creates a delightful texture, while the hint of chocolate adds a touch of sweetness that’s just irresistible.

As a kid, the highlight of our weekends was baking with my mom. We would spend hours experimenting with flavors and ingredients, and these Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies are a beautiful reminder of those times. They’re not just cookies; they’re a way to create memories with family and friends. Every bite is a perfect blend of chewy and soft, and I love how they can be enjoyed any time of the day. Whether it’s after school, as a sweet treat during a cozy movie night, or as a special dessert for Thanksgiving, these cookies never fail to impress.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a master baker to whip up a batch of these delicious cookies. The ingredients are straightforward, and the process is easy to follow. Plus, they make your kitchen smell heavenly! If you’re looking for something to warm your heart and home this fall, you’ve found it with these Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. Let’s dive into why they’re so special and how to make them!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
6 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Parchment paper or silicone baking mat, Silicone spatula, Measuring cups and spoons, Large Mixing Bowl, Medium sized mixing bowl, Medium cookie scoop, 1 1/2 tablespoons dough

Why This Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Is So Good

1. Comforting Ingredients

From the moment you gather the ingredients for Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies, you can feel the warmth of fall. Each component plays a significant role in creating the comforting flavors we love. The pumpkin adds moisture and a rich depth of flavor, while the oats contribute a delightful chewiness that sets these cookies apart. And let’s not forget the chocolate chips, which perfectly balance the spices and add that sweet touch we all crave.

2. Easy to Bake

This recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels. I remember the first time I made these cookies; I was amazed at how simple the process was. It’s as easy as mixing the ingredients together, shaping the dough, and letting the oven do the rest. You don’t need any fancy equipment or techniques—just your trusty mixing bowl and a baking sheet!

3. A Family Favorite

Every time I make these cookies, my family gathers around, eager to sample the warm treats. They have become a family tradition, especially during the fall. Each one of us has a favorite way to enjoy them: some of us love them fresh out of the oven, while others prefer them cooled with a cup of tea. They’re versatile and loved by all, which is why they hold a special place in our hearts.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies are always a hit. They’re great for Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or just a cozy evening at home. You can even package them up as gifts for friends or neighbors to spread the joy of the season!

5. Healthy Twist

While these cookies are indulgent, they also have a wholesome side. The oats provide fiber, and the pumpkin brings in essential nutrients. I love that I can enjoy a treat that feels a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor!

Everything You Need for Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

When it comes to making Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies, the ingredients are straightforward yet essential in crafting that perfect blend of flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in ensuring the cookies are not only delicious but also memorable. Here’s what you’ll need:

½ cup butter, softened, salted
½ cup white sugar
½ cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
½ cup pumpkin puree, blot the pumpkin with a paper towel, see notes for more details.
1 cup flour
¾ cup rolled oats, sometimes these are called “old fashioned oats”
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, optional

Cooking Method for Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Ready to get baking? Making Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies is a delightful experience that brings warmth to your kitchen. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be rewarded with a batch of cookies that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper; this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Set the sheet aside while you prepare your dough.
In a large mixing bowl, take your softened butter along with the white sugar and brown sugar. Beat these together until they’re well combined and fluffy. The key is to mix until the sugars dissolve and the mixture lightens in color.
Add in the egg and vanilla to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy. You want the mixture to be well integrated without any lumps.
Now, it’s time to incorporate the pumpkin puree. Blot it well with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture before adding it to the wet mixture. Stir until fully combined and the orange hue is evenly distributed.
In a separate medium bowl, combine your flour, rolled oats, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they’re well mixed. This ensures that the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed.
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the pumpkin batter a little at a time. It’s important to mix gently; you want to avoid overworking the dough. Stop mixing as soon as there’s no visible flour left.
If you’re using semi-sweet chocolate chips, gently fold them into the cookie dough now. This adds a delightful sweetness and richness to each bite.
Cover the bowl of cookie dough with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
About 10 minutes before the dough is done chilling, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your cookies bake perfectly once the dough is ready.
Using a medium cookie scoop (about 1 and ½ tablespoons), drop the cookie batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each scoop to allow for spreading.
Bake the cookies for 18 to 21 minutes. They should be soft and chewy in the middle, with edges set just right. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking—they’ll firm up as they cool.
Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This cooling process allows them to finish baking and helps maintain that perfect chewy texture.

Things Worth Knowing

Butter Softness: Ensure the butter is soft enough to create indentations when pressed. Chop it into smaller pieces to expedite softening.
Chocolate Chips: If you prefer a stronger chocolate flavor, feel free to add more chocolate chips to the dough.
Oat Type: You can substitute quick oats for rolled oats, although this may result in a less chewy texture.
Nuts Option: Nuts can be added in place of chocolate chips for a different flavor. Chopped walnuts or pecans work wonderfully.
Cookie Scoop Size: Standard cookie scoops typically use about 1 and ½ tablespoons of dough. Measuring helps ensure uniform cookie sizes.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to switch things up with your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies, here are some creative ideas to make them your own:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week, though they’re usually gone long before that!
Freezing: To freeze, place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can elevate the flavor profile.
Mix-Ins: Add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist. They add a natural sweetness and chewy texture.
Cookie Sandwich: Turn them into cookie sandwiches by adding cream cheese frosting or vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a delicious treat.

Perfect Matches for Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Pairing Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with the right accompaniments can enhance your experience. Here are some excellent matches:

Warm beverages: Enjoy them with a cup of hot chocolate, a spiced latte, or even a warm cup of tea for a cozy treat.
Ice Cream: Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream— the contrast of warm cookies and cold ice cream is simply delightful.
Autumn Dishes: These cookies pair well with fall-themed desserts like apple pie or pumpkin bread, creating a comforting dessert spread.
Seasonal Gatherings: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or any autumn gathering, they bring a festive touch to your dessert table.
Storing Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container to keep them fresh, especially if you’re in a humid climate.

FAQ

To store your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies, simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure they are completely cooled before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be thawed at room temperature for a delightful treat anytime!

Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh pumpkin, you can roast and puree it yourself. Just make sure to remove any excess moisture from the fresh puree before incorporating it into your cookie batter. This helps maintain the right texture in your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies.

To achieve that perfect chewy texture in your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies, avoid overbaking them. The cookies should look slightly underdone in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the wire rack. Also, using rolled oats is key; they provide a lovely chewiness that enhances the overall experience.

Definitely! Feel free to customize your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies by adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dried fruits such as cranberries. Just keep in mind that adding extra ingredients can affect the texture and baking time, so keep an eye on them while baking!

Conclusion

Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies are a wonderful blend of flavors that capture the essence of fall. They’re not just a treat; they’re a way to create lasting memories with family and friends. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the warmth and comfort that these cookies bring. You won’t be disappointed!