Delicious Pumpkin Molasses Cookies 10-12 Min

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Pumpkin Molasses Cookies have a way of transporting me straight back to crisp autumn days, the scent of woodsmoke in the air, and the comforting warmth of my grandmother’s kitchen. I can almost feel the slightly crisp edges giving way to a wonderfully chewy center, the deep, rich flavor of molasses mingling with sweet pumpkin and a hint of spice. These aren’t just any cookies; they’re a hug in edible form. I’ve discovered that making these easy pumpkin molasses cookies is simpler than you might think, and the aroma that fills your home while they bake is pure magic. Get ready to create some delicious memories – let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Molasses Cookies Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with these delightful treats! They’re more than just a recipe; they’re an experience.

Incredibly Flavorful: Packed with warm spices and rich molasses, these cookies are a taste of autumn in every bite.
Perfect Texture: You’ll adore these chewy pumpkin molasses cookies – they have just the right amount of softness and chew.
Simple to Make: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is straightforward and yields fantastic results.
Aromatic Bliss: The smell of these baking will fill your kitchen with the cozy scent of fall.
Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of creating delicious homemade pumpkin molasses cookies from scratch.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon snacks, or a comforting dessert.
Crowd Pleaser: Guaranteed to be a hit with friends and family of all ages.

Ingredients for The Best Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Gathering the right pumpkin molasses cookie ingredients is the first step to baking perfection. These simple components combine to create a cookie that’s both comforting and incredibly delicious.

1/2 cup butter, room temperature – Using softened butter ensures it creams well for a light texture.
1 large egg, room temperature – An egg at room temperature helps bind everything together smoothly.
3/4 cup granulated sugar – This sweetness balances the molasses and pumpkin.
1/2 cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and a deeper caramel note, crucial for that classic molasses cookie flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances all the other flavors in the cookie.
1/2 cup pumpkin puree – This is key for moisture and that lovely autumnal flavor! Make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
1/4 cup molasses – The star ingredient that gives these cookies their signature deep, rich taste and chewy texture.
3 cups all-purpose flour – The base for our cookie dough.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Helps with a little lift.
1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Essential for chewiness and helping the cookies spread just right.
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice – This blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves is what makes these cookies taste like fall.
For the topping:
1/2 cup granulated sugar – To coat the dough balls for a delightful crunch.
1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice – To add an extra layer of spiced sweetness to the outside.

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Ready to create some of the best fall cookies you’ve ever tasted? Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious molasses pumpkin cookies recipe.

Step 1: First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). While it heats up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Grab a large bowl and cream together the softened butter, one large egg, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat them until the mixture looks light and fluffy – this is where the magic starts for that tender cookie texture.
Step 3: Now, it’s time to add the stars of the show. Beat in the vanilla extract, the 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, and the 1/4 cup molasses until everything is beautifully combined. You’ll start to smell that wonderful, rich aroma!
Step 4: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: the 3 cups all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and the 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice. Getting these well-mixed ensures even flavor distribution.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined – you want a soft dough to form. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle! This is a crucial step in how to make pumpkin molasses cookies that are perfectly soft.
Step 6: In a small bowl, combine the topping sugar and the additional 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice. This creates a lovely spiced crust for your cookies.
Step 7: Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough. Roll each portion into a smooth ball. This helps ensure your cookies are uniformly sized.
Step 8: Roll each dough ball generously in the sugar and spice mixture until it’s evenly coated. This topping adds a delightful crunch and extra spice.
Step 9: Place the coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. They will spread a bit as they bake.
Step 10: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and look lightly golden. The centers should still appear slightly soft. Don’t overbake if you want that perfect chewy texture!
Step 11: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to firm up properly.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Achieving that perfect texture and flavor in your pumpkin molasses cookies is totally doable with a few insider tricks. These tips will help elevate your baking game!

Always use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overmix the dough after adding the flour; this is crucial for achieving that desired chewy texture.
Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes can help prevent spreading and deepen the flavors.
For an extra boost of flavor, use dark molasses instead of regular light molasses.

What’s the secret to perfect chewy pumpkin molasses cookies?

The secret lies in the balance of ingredients and not overbaking. Using both brown sugar and molasses contributes to chewiness, while baking soda helps them spread. Avoid overmixing the dough to keep them tender.

Can I make pumpkin molasses cookie dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pumpkin molasses cookie dough up to 48 hours in advance. Store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before scooping and rolling.

How do I avoid common mistakes with pumpkin molasses cookies?

A common pitfall is overbaking, which leads to dry cookies. Watch for lightly golden edges and slightly soft centers. Another mistake is using pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin; always check your labels carefully.

Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

These delightful cookies are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of fall flavors. Imagine serving these warm, spiced delights alongside a steaming mug of apple cider or a rich hot chocolate. They make a wonderful addition to any dessert platter, especially when mixed with other seasonal treats. For a truly autumnal experience, enjoy them with a classic cup of coffee, perhaps infused with a bit of extra spice to complement these pumpkin spice molasses cookies.

Nutrition Facts for Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Enjoying these delicious pumpkin molasses cookies comes with a little nutritional information to keep you informed. This breakdown is for a single cookie, offering a glimpse into what makes these treats so satisfying.

Calories: 116 kcal
Fat: 3 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
Trans Fat: 0.1 g
Protein: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 21 g
Fiber: 0.4 g
Sugar: 13 g
Sodium: 115 mg
Cholesterol: 13 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

Once your delicious pumpkin cookie recipe molasses creations have cooled completely, proper storage is key to keeping them perfectly soft and flavorful. It’s important to let them reach room temperature before storing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. For short-term enjoyment, place the cooled cookies in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days.

If you find yourself with an abundance of these delightful treats, or you want to save some for later, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm, freshly baked experience, you can gently reheat them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-8 minutes, or microwave for just 10-15 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Molasses Cookies

What are pumpkin molasses cookies?

Pumpkin molasses cookies are a delightful fall treat that combines the warm, earthy flavor of pumpkin puree with the deep, rich sweetness of molasses. They are typically spiced with cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, giving them a cozy, comforting taste reminiscent of pumpkin pie but in cookie form. These cookies are known for their soft, chewy texture, especially when made with the right ingredients and baking techniques.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to stick with pure pumpkin puree for this recipe. Pumpkin pie filling already contains added sugars and spices, which can alter the flavor and texture of your cookies. Using pure pumpkin puree gives you more control over the sweetness and spice levels, ensuring your old fashioned pumpkin molasses cookies turn out just right.

Why are my pumpkin molasses cookies flat?

Several factors can cause your cookies to spread too much. Make sure your oven temperature is accurate; an oven that’s too hot can cause rapid spreading. Also, avoid overmixing the dough after adding the flour, as this develops gluten and can lead to flatter cookies. Using too much leavening (baking soda or powder) or not enough flour can also contribute to excessive spreading.

What’s the best way to get that old-fashioned flavor?

To achieve that authentic old fashioned pumpkin molasses cookies taste, use dark molasses, which has a more robust and slightly bitter flavor than lighter varieties. Don’t skimp on the spices, either – a good blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves is essential. Ensuring your ingredients are fresh and measuring them accurately will also contribute to that classic, comforting flavor profile.

Variations of Pumpkin Molasses Cookies You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic pumpkin molasses cookies, you might want to experiment with some fun twists. These variations offer new flavor profiles and textures that are just as delightful and perfect for any fall baking adventure.

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Molasses Cookies: For a decadent treat, fold in about 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the dough before rolling. The rich chocolate pairs wonderfully with the molasses and pumpkin spice.
Pumpkin Gingerbread Molasses Cookies: Amp up the spice by adding an extra teaspoon of ground ginger and a pinch of ground cloves to the dough. This creates a cookie with a more intense gingerbread-like flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Molasses Cookies: Substitute a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. You might need to slightly adjust the liquid content if the dough seems too dry or wet.
White Chocolate Cranberry Pumpkin Cookies: Try adding 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips to the dough. The tartness of the cranberries and the creamy white chocolate offer a lovely contrast to the spiced cookie.