How do you make pumpkin cookies?

This recipe makes chewy, spiced pumpkin cookies that are perfect for fall!

Ingredients:

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

* 1 cup granulated sugar

* 1 cup packed light brown sugar

* 2 large eggs

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

* 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

* 1/2 teaspoon salt

* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

* 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree

* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions:

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

2. Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin pie spice, salt, and flour.

5. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

6. Fold in pumpkin and nuts: Stir in the pumpkin puree and nuts (if using).

7. Scoop and bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.

8. Bake for 10-12 minutes: Bake until the edges of the cookies are set and slightly golden.

9. Cool on baking sheet: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations:

* For a softer cookie: Use less flour, about 1 1/4 cups instead of 1 1/2 cups.

* For a crispier cookie: Use more flour, about 1 3/4 cups instead of 1 1/2 cups.

* For a richer flavor: Use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.

* For a different flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.

* For a festive touch: Decorate the cookies with white frosting and sprinkles.

Enjoy your delicious pumpkin cookies! 🎃🍪