Soft and chewy autumn cookies flavored with a homemade pumpkin spice blend.

all-purpose flour – 2 1/2 cups

baking soda – 1 tsp

salt – 1/2 tsp

unsalted butter, softened – 1/2 cup

brown sugar – 3/4 cup

granulated sugar – 1/4 cup

pumpkin puree – 1 cup

egg yolk – 1

vanilla extract – 1 tsp

homemade pumpkin spice blend – 2 tsp

optional add-ins (white chocolate chips, pecans, or dried cranberries) – 1/2 cup

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

2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin spice blend.

3. Beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Mix in pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

5. Fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.

6. Cover dough and refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes.

7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions, roll into balls, and place 2 inches apart on baking sheets.

8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are golden and centers remain soft.

9. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Keywords: pumpkin cookies, chewy cookies, pumpkin spice, fall baking, autumn treats, homemade cookies, seasonal dessert