Follow these simple steps to whip up The Best Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies:

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

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.

3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid over-mixing.

6. Fold in Add-Ins: If desired, fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts.

7. Scoop Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center appears set.

9. Cool on Baking Sheet: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

10. Serve: Once cooled, enjoy your cookies as they are or drizzle with icing for an extra treat.