Name: Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies: A Cozy Fall Treat
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 39 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free cookies); 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground cinnamon (adjust to taste); 0.25 tsp ground nutmeg (omit for milder taste); 0.5 tsp salt; 0.5 cups unsalted butter (softened) (opt for plant-based butter for vegan version); 0.5 cups brown sugar (packed); 0.5 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup pumpkin purée (can be swapped with sweet potato purée); 1 large egg (use flaxseed for vegan version); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 0.5 cups chopped walnuts (substitute with pecans or omit for nut-free option); 0.5 cups extra flour; 0.25 cups brown sugar; 0.25 cups unsalted butter (melted); 1 tsp ground cinnamon

As I stood by the oven, the sweet smell of cinnamon and pumpkin enveloped the kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace of cozy fall vibes. I couldn’t help but smile as I pulled out a tray of Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies—soft, chewy, and with a buttery crumble that takes them to the next level of indulgence. These delightful treats aren’t just a seasonal snack; they’re perfect for any occasion when you crave something comforting and homemade. Plus, they can easily be made gluten-free or nut-free, so everyone can join in on the warm, nostalgic experience. Ready to fill your home with the aroma of fall baking? Let’s dive into these irresistible cookies that are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!

Why are Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies irresistible?

Cozy Fall Flavor: Each bite is infused with the warmth of pumpkin and spices, truly capturing the essence of fall.

Soft & Chewy: The texture is perfectly soft and chewy, making them a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Versatile Options: Easily adapt these cookies to suit dietary needs with gluten-free flour or nut alternatives, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.

Quick to Make: With a simple mixing process and a baking time of just 12-14 minutes, you’ll have fresh cookies ready in no time!

Perfect Pairing: Serve them warm alongside coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon snack that feels just right.

Nostalgic Aroma: The enticing scent of cinnamon and nutmeg wafts through your home, evoking memories of cherished family gatherings and seasonal joy.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

All-purpose flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies.
Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a fluffy texture; no substitutions necessary.
Ground cinnamon – Adds a warm spice flavor; feel free to adjust the amount to your taste.
Ground nutmeg – Complements cinnamon nicely and can be omitted if you prefer a milder taste.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor; keep as is.
Unsalted butter (softened) – Ensures richness and moisture; opt for plant-based butter for a vegan alternative.
Brown sugar (packed) – Contributes moisture and a hearty caramel flavor.
Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and texture to the cookies.
Pumpkin purée – The star ingredient providing flavor; can be swapped with sweet potato purée or mashed bananas.
Large egg – Binds everything together; for a vegan version, use flaxseed instead of egg.
Vanilla extract – Boosts the flavor of the cookies.

Optional Add-ins

Chopped walnuts – Introduces a lovely crunch; substitute with pecans or omit altogether for a nut-free option.

For the Crumble Topping

Extra flour – Adds texture to the crumble.
Brown sugar – Enhances sweetness in the crumble topping.
Unsalted butter (melted) – Helps bind the crumble ingredients and adds richness.
Ground cinnamon – Brings warmth to the crumble; an essential component in the topping.

These delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies are not just delicious but also versatile, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy a taste of fall!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This preparation will ensure your Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies bake evenly and release easily once they are perfectly golden and set.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk them together until thoroughly blended; this step helps aerate the dry ingredients, ensuring even distribution. Set the bowl aside as you move on to the wet ingredients, knowing this mixture is essential for the cookie base.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air, helping your Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies achieve that delightful chewy texture throughout.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add the pumpkin purée, large egg, and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Blend on low speed until everything is well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary. The wet ingredients will create a rich batter, which is the foundation of your cozy cookies, so mix until there are no dry streaks remaining.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Mixture
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this may lead to tough cookies. If you desire a nutty crunch, fold in chopped walnuts for added texture at this point, and take in the aromatic blend of spices as it melds together.

Step 6: Prepare the Dough for Baking
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. As you scoop, feel the soft, sticky consistency of the dough—it’s the perfect base for your Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies, ready to take on the crumble topping.

Step 7: Make the Crumble Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the extra flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon for the crumble topping until it resembles coarse crumbs. This will create a lovely sweet texture that complements the cookies perfectly. Generously sprinkle this crumble mixture over each scooped cookie, ensuring they are well covered.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown and set in the middle when done. The enticing aroma of pumpkin and cinnamon will fill your kitchen, signaling that your Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies are almost ready to enjoy.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This brief cooling time helps them firm up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the rack, and then revel in the cozy flavors and delightful textures of your freshly baked treats!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore these exciting variations to make the Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to create a deliciously soft treat everyone can enjoy. The result will be just as chewy and satisfying!
Vegan: Swap out the butter for plant-based butter and use flaxseed instead of egg for a fully vegan version. You’ll still get that irresistible texture and flavor!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a bit of ground ginger to the dough for an unexpected spicy twist. The warmth will beautifully complement the cinnamon and pumpkin.
Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch that’s safe for nut-free diets. This ensures everyone can dive into the cookie joy!
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in dark chocolate chips for a rich addition. The melted chocolate mingling with the spices creates a heavenly flavor burst in each bite!
Cinnamon Roll Twist: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and vanilla over your cooled cookies to mimic the flavors of a cinnamon roll. It’s like having two desserts in one!
Fruit Infusion: Add finely chopped dried cranberries or raisins to the dough for a burst of sweetness and chewy texture, elevating the cookies to a whole new level.
Sweet Potato Alternative: Swap out the pumpkin purée with sweet potato purée for a subtly different flavor while keeping the comforting essence intact.

If you’re craving more cozy flavors, consider making Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal or Pumpkin Sugar Cookies for delightful variations on fall treats!

Storage Tips for Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and chewy.

Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Make sure they’re in a sealed container to avoid drying out.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to bring back that soft texture.

Dough Storage: You can freeze the scooped cookie dough for future use. Just freeze the dough balls until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies

Indulging in soft and chewy cookies is always a delightful experience, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your cozy treat to new heights.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: This traditional pairing creates a luscious contrast to the warm flavors of the cookies. A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top makes for a comforting, indulgent dessert experience.
Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate enhances the cozy vibes and provides a chocolaty richness that complements the spices in the cookies. Opt for whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra special touch.
Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices of chai echo the flavors of the cookies, making it a perfect match. The creamy texture and warmth of the drink beautifully balance the soft and chewy cookie texture.
Chai-Spiced Pumpkin Bread: For a complete fall-inspired spread, serve these cookies alongside a slice of chai-spiced pumpkin bread. The flavors meld beautifully, making every bite a celebration of seasonal goodness.
Maple Glazed Pecan Pie: Offering a mix of textures, a slice of pecan pie brings a delightful crunch while the rich maple glaze harmonizes with the cookies’ pumpkin flavor. Serve warm for a divine tasting experience.
Nutty Granola Parfait: Layer these cookies, yogurt, and granola for a breakfast treat or brunch idea that combines crunch, creaminess, and pumpkin spice goodness. It’s a lovely way to start your day.
Apple Cider with Cinnamon Sticks: Warm apple cider with a hint of spice feels like a hug in a mug. Serving this seasonal beverage enhances the experience of enjoying the cookies, filling the air with enticing autumn aromas.
Simple Fresh Fruit: A side of sliced apples or pears adds a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the cookies. The natural sweetness of the fruit echoes the cookie’s flavors while adding a crisp texture.

Each of these pairings brings out the cozy and comforting nature of Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies, creating a delightful feast for the senses!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop the dough onto the baking sheet, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pull the dough out, let it sit at room temperature while preheating the oven, and sprinkle with the crumble topping before baking. If you prefer, you can freeze the dough balls instead; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for delicious, fresh cookies on demand!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies

Moisture Matters: Ensure your pumpkin purée isn’t overly wet; strain it if necessary to keep cookies from being too flat.

Chill for Shape: Chill your dough for about 20 minutes before baking to maintain the perfect cookie shape and texture.

Perfect Egg Beating: Beat your egg until it’s pale yellow for a lighter, airier cookie; this step makes a noticeable difference.

Crumble Consistency: Mix crumble topping until it resembles coarse crumbs to ensure an even distribution of delightful texture over your cookies.

Serving Suggestion: For extra indulgence, dust with powdered sugar or serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside your Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect pumpkin purée?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin purée, look for brands that list 100% pumpkin with no added sugars or spices. The color should be a rich orange, which indicates ripeness and freshness. You can also opt for making your own purée from roasted sugar pumpkins, which adds a lovely homemade touch.

What is the best way to store Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just ensure they’re sealed well to prevent drying out—nobody wants a crunchy treat when they’ve hoped for soft and chewy!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies?
Very! For long-term storage, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that delightful soft texture.

What should I do if my cookies turn out flat?
If your cookies end up flat, don’t worry! This is often due to an overly wet pumpkin purée. To fix this, you can strain your purée before using it. Chilling the dough for about 20 minutes prior to baking can also help keep your cookies from spreading too much, ensuring a lovely, fluffy texture.

Are Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
It’s important to be cautious with ingredients! While pumpkin itself is generally safe for dogs in moderation, be mindful of sugars and chocolate if you’re sharing with your furry friend. For allergies, you can easily adapt these cookies by using gluten-free flour and omitting nuts, making them nut-free and suitable for various dietary needs.

How long can I keep the cookie dough in the freezer?
You can freeze scooped Pumpkin Cinnamon Crumble Cookie dough for up to 3 months! Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake a fresh batch, pop them straight into the oven, just adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Enjoy your cozy baking!