Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or walnuts.

Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.