Pumpkin Spice Cookies

These Pumpkin Spice Cookies are the perfect treat to welcome the fall season! With their soft and chewy texture, delightful pumpkin spice flavor, and a sweet cinnamon sugar coating, they resemble a cozy snickerdoodle. Ideal for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike. Make sure to chill the dough for at least two hours to achieve the best results!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a warm and inviting taste that embodies autumn.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a delightful chewiness that keeps you coming back for more.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion! Enjoy them at home, share with friends at parties, or gift them during the holidays.
• Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sugar for your preferred level of sweetness—use less granulated sugar for a lighter cookie.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking these delicious cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps to aerate the dry ingredients, ensuring even mixing for better cookie texture.
• Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking multiple batches of cookies at once.

Ingredients

These pumpkin spice cookies are soft and chewy with a delicious pumpkin spice flavor and cinnamon sugar coating. They’re like a fall snickerdoodle! Be sure to allot enough time to chill the dough for best results.

• ½ cup pumpkin puree (120 ml) (I use canned, not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour (312 grams) (spooned and leveled)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
• ¾ teaspoons baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ⅛ teaspoons ground cloves
• ¾ cup unsalted butter (168 grams) (softened to room temperature)
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar (158 grams)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (150 grams) (use ½ cup for a less sweet cookie)
• 1 large egg yolk (just the yolk)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1½ teaspoons cinnamon

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin

Blot the pumpkin puree with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Set aside.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. 2½ cups all-purpose flour
2. 2 teaspoons cornstarch
3. ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
4. ¾ teaspoons baking soda
5. ¼ teaspoon salt
6. 2 teaspoons cinnamon
7. ½ teaspoon nutmeg
8. ⅛ teaspoons ground cloves

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another large bowl, beat together:
1. ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
2. ¾ cup packed brown sugar
3. ¾ cup granulated sugar

Beat until fluffy.

Step 4: Mix in Pumpkin

Add the prepared pumpkin puree along with:
1. 1 large egg yolk
2. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Beat until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until fully incorporated. The dough will be thick.

Step 6: Chill Dough

Cover the bowl with clingfilm and refrigerate for at least two hours or up to two days.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350℉ (180℃). Line cookie trays with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. ¼ cup granulated sugar
2. 1½ teaspoons cinnamon

Pour onto a plate or shallow bowl.

Step 9: Shape Cookies

Scoop out about 1-1½ tablespoons of dough per cookie ball. Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture before placing them about 2 inches apart on lined cookie sheets.

Step 10: Bake

Bake one sheet at a time in the middle of the preheated oven for about 9-12 minutes or until tops look set. Remove from oven and cool on the cookie sheet for at least ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Spice Cookies fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cookies

These pumpkin spice cookies are perfect for various occasions. Their soft, chewy texture paired with a warm spice flavor makes them a delightful treat. Here are some creative ways to serve them.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a rich cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Tea: Enjoy them alongside your favorite herbal or spiced tea for a comforting experience.
• Hot Chocolate: For a sweet treat, serve with whipped cream-topped hot chocolate.

As Dessert Sandwiches

• Cream Cheese Filling: Spread a layer of cream cheese and make delicious cookie sandwiches.
• Nut Butter: Use almond or peanut butter between two cookies for added protein and flavor.

At Gatherings

• Cookie Platter: Arrange cookies on a platter with other baked goods for parties or potlucks.
• Gift Boxes: Package them in decorative boxes as homemade gifts during the holiday season.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Achieving the perfect pumpkin spice cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out just right.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours to enhance flavors and improve texture.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies caused by too much flour.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better consistency.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on baking time; remove cookies when they look set but still soft in the center.
• Customize Spices: Adjust spice quantities to your liking for more or less intensity based on personal preference.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Cookies

If you’re looking to complement your pumpkin spice cookies, consider these delightful side dishes. They enhance the overall experience and add variety to your treat table.

1. Apple Slices – Fresh apple slices provide a crisp contrast to the soft cookies. Drizzle with caramel for extra sweetness.
2. Cheese Board – A selection of cheeses pairs well with the warm spices, offering savory balance.
3. Pumpkin Soup – A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup enhances the seasonal theme and warms up chilly days.
4. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a fresh, tangy side that complements sweetness.
5. Spiced Nuts – Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and depth, making an excellent crunchy sidekick.
6. Caramel Dip – Serve with warm caramel dip for those who enjoy an indulgent treat alongside their cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Pumpkin Spice Cookies, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final product. Avoid these mistakes for the best results.

• Incorrect Measurement: Using too much or too little flour can lead to dry or overly sticky cookies. Always spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough can result in flat cookies. Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours to maintain shape.
• Overbaking: Leaving cookies in the oven too long can make them hard. Remove them when they look set but still soft in the center; they’ll firm up as they cool.
• Neglecting to Blot Pumpkin: Failing to absorb excess moisture from pumpkin puree can lead to a wet dough. Always blot it with a paper towel before mixing.
• Using Baking Powder Instead of Baking Soda: Substituting baking powder for baking soda alters the texture and flavor. Stick with baking soda for the proper rise and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cookies

• Freeze individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• They will last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pumpkin Spice Cookies.

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it includes xanthan gum for binding.

How do I get soft Pumpkin Spice Cookies?

To keep your cookies soft, don’t overbake them and ensure you chill the dough properly before baking.

What can I add to my Pumpkin Spice Cookies?

Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure to cook and thoroughly drain fresh pumpkin before using it in your recipe.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Spice Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile! With their soft and chewy texture, they’re perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize them by adding ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of fall!