What makes this the best pumpkin cookies recipe ever?

This chewy pumpkin cookies recipe combines pumpkin puree, warm spices, and the perfect balance of brown and granulated sugar to create soft, fudgy cookies. Whether you want simple chewy pumpkin cookies or indulgent pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, this recipe delivers consistently delicious results.

Can I make pumpkin chocolate chip cookies or pumpkin oatmeal cookies?

Yes! Add chocolate chips for classic pumpkin chocolate chip cookies or oats for pumpkin oatmeal cookies. Both variations maintain soft, fudgy centers and are easy to customize.

How do I make crispy pumpkin cookies instead of fudgy chewy pumpkin cookies?

Bake slightly longer and flatten the dough a bit before baking. This transforms the soft chewy pumpkin cookies recipe into lightly crisp edges while keeping a tender interior.

Are there quick or 3 ingredient pumpkin cookies?

Absolutely. For a simple 3 ingredient pumpkin cookies version, combine pumpkin puree, cookie mix, and an egg. You’ll still enjoy the warm flavors of pumpkin spice cookies in a fraction of the time.

Chewy Pumpkin Cookies Recipe – Soft, Fudgy, and Delicious 2025

Name: Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional); 8 oz cream cheese, softened (optional); ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (optional); 1 cup powdered sugar (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Description

Soft, chewy, and packed with warm autumn spices, these pumpkin cookies are perfect for fall or Halloween treats. You can enjoy them plain, with chocolate chips, or top them with cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent twist.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for ~24 cookies):

For the Cookies:

1 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)

For Cream Cheese Frosting (optional):

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Cookie Dough

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
Beat in egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if desired.

Step 2: Bake Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing ~2 inches apart.
Bake 12–15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: (Optional) Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla until creamy.
Spread over cooled cookies or pipe decorative swirls.

Notes

Chewy Texture: Do not overbake; centers should stay soft.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Variations: Add white chocolate chips, nuts, or a drizzle of caramel for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Category: Dessert / Cookies
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American