Introduction
Fall is the perfect season for baking, and what better way to celebrate than with delicious pumpkin-flavored cookies? These cookies are not only packed with flavor but also offer a delightful combination of textures and healthy ingredients. With the warm spices of cinnamon and ginger, paired with the sweetness of brown sugar and the richness of chocolate chips, every bite is a treat. Plus, the addition of oats, flax meal, and pecans makes these cookies a more wholesome option. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to bake a batch of these delightful cookies!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1/4 cup flax meal
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped pecans
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: Approximately 18-24 cookies
With these straightforward instructions, you’ll have a batch of pumpkin cookies that are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Happy baking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Incorporate the large egg and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until fully combined and smooth.
Step 4: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, flax meal, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, and salt until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add half of the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, followed by half of the pumpkin puree. Mix until just combined. Repeat with the remaining dry ingredients and pumpkin puree, being careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fold in Add-Ins
Gently fold in the dried cranberries, dark chocolate chips, and chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Using a large spoon or an ice cream scoop, drop heaping three-tablespoon portions of dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the centers are set.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Store the Cookies
Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
Note 1: Butter Temperature
Ensure that the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
Note 2: Oats
Old-fashioned rolled oats are recommended for the best texture; avoid instant oats as they may alter the consistency.
Note 3: Pumpkin Puree
Use 100% pure pumpkin puree for flavor; avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains additional spices and sugar.
Note 4: Adjusting Sugar
Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your sweetness preference or substitute with a sugar alternative if desired.
Note 5: Add-In Variations
You can customize the cookie mix-ins by replacing cranberries with raisins or using different nuts such as walnuts or almonds.
Cook techniques
Creaming
Creaming is the process of beating softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. This technique incorporates air into the mixture, which helps create a tender texture in the final baked product.
Whisking
Whisking dry ingredients together ensures even distribution of baking soda and spices. It helps to aerate the flour and blend the components before adding them to the wet mixture.
Folding
Folding is a gentle mixing technique used to incorporate delicate ingredients, like dried fruits and nuts, into the batter without deflating it. This technique ensures a uniform distribution while maintaining the texture of the batter.
Dropping Cookies
Dropping cookies involves scooping portions of dough onto a baking sheet, allowing them to spread as they bake. This technique is suitable for cookies that are not rolled out.
Cooling on a Wire Rack
Transferring cookies to a wire rack allows for proper air circulation, preventing them from becoming soggy. This step helps set the cookie’s texture and preserves its freshness.
FAQ
Can I substitute the butter with margarine or oil?
Yes, you can substitute butter with margarine, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly. Using oil is also an option, but it will change the cookie’s texture significantly.
What can I use instead of flax meal?
You can substitute flax meal with chia seeds, if desired. Alternatively, you might omit it entirely or replace it with an equal amount of additional flour.
How do I store the cookies to keep them fresh?
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Can I use oatmeal instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats or instant oats, but note that the texture may be slightly different compared to old-fashioned rolled oats.
What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?
You can use mashed bananas, applesauce, or sweet potato puree as substitutes for pumpkin puree, but adjust spices and sweetness accordingly to suit your taste.
Conclusion
The combination of pumpkin, spices, and hearty ingredients in these cookies results in a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With the warmth of cinnamon and ginger balanced by the sweetness of brown sugar and chocolate, these cookies provide a deliciously satisfying flavor and texture. Enjoy these cookies as a snack with your favorite beverage or as a delightful dessert.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Maple Pecan Oatmeal Cookies
Swap out the pumpkin puree for maple syrup and add additional chopped pecans for a rich, nutty flavor.
Chocolate Chip Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Replace pumpkin puree with ripe mashed bananas and reduce the sugar slightly for a chewy banana treat.
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
Incorporate diced apples and increase the ground cinnamon for an apple pie flavor in your cookies.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Mix in peanut butter for an added nutty flavor and pair it with dark chocolate chips for a classic combo.
Zucchini Oatmeal Cookies
Substitute pumpkin with grated zucchini to create a moist, nutritious cookie while keeping the spices intact.
Coconut Oatmeal Cookies
Add shredded coconut and vanilla extract for a tropical twist on the traditional oatmeal cookie.
Mixed Berry Oatmeal Cookies
Incorporate dried mixed berries instead of cranberries for a vibrant burst of flavor and color.
Nutty Ginger Cookies
Add chopped walnuts and increase the ground ginger for a spicier, nuttier cookie experience.
Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies
Incorporate grated carrots and raisins along with a touch of nutmeg for a cookie reminiscent of carrot cake.
