As the leaves begin to turn and a crispness tinges the air, there’s something undeniably magical about baking during the fall season. Today, I’m thrilled to share my go-to recipe for Pumpkin Spice Cookies, where the enchanting blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin puree creates a cozy scent that fills the kitchen like a warm hug. What makes these cookies truly special is their simplicity; with just one bowl and easy-to-find ingredients, they promise quick prep and delightful softness in every bite. Whether you’re whipping them up for a family gathering or just a sweet pick-me-up, these cookies are sure to become a beloved addition to your fall baking repertoire. Curious about how to make these irresistible treats? Let’s get started!
Why Are These Cookies So Special?
Simplicity at its Core: You only need one bowl to whip up this delightful dough, making cleanup a breeze!
Perfectly Soft: Each cookie is soft and chewy with a slightly crispy edge, creating the ultimate texture contrast.
Irresistible Aroma: As they bake, the cozy scent of cinnamon and nutmeg will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to indulge.
Family Favorite: These treats are crowd-pleasers—perfect for school events or cozy family nights. Pair them with a warm beverage, or check out my recipe for Pumpkin Spice Latte for the perfect combo.
Make Ahead: The dough can be prepared ahead of time, letting you enjoy fresh cookies anytime. Why not surprise your family with a warm batch after dinner?
Pumpkin Spice Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Canned Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and the essential pumpkin flavor; use plain puree, avoiding any pie filling.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure; spoon into the measuring cup to ensure accurate measurement for the perfect texture.
• Unsalted Butter – Brings richness; make sure it’s softened to create a creamy mixture with the sugars.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; it helps keep the cookies chewy.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances the brown sugar for a sweet, delightful flavor.
• Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture for soft cookies.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; opt for pure vanilla for a richer taste.
For the Leavening and Structure
• Cornstarch – Helps create a tender texture by preventing cookies from spreading too much.
• Cream of Tartar – Stabilizes the dough, ensuring optimal rise and chewiness.
• Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps the cookies puff up perfectly.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor; just a pinch can make a big difference!
For the Spices
• Ground Cinnamon – The signature spice for that classic pumpkin flavor; don’t be shy with it!
• Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth and a hint of sweetness; a little goes a long way.
• Ground Cloves – Complements the cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a warm and inviting aroma.
For Coating
• Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture – For rolling the balls of dough, enhances sweetness, and gives a lovely texture to the cookies.
With these ingredients, your Pumpkin Spice Cookies will not only be simple to make but an irresistible treat that celebrates the flavors of fall, making every bite a delightful experience!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Cookies
Step 1: Prep Dry Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Then, add 1 teaspoon each of ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. Ensure the dry ingredients are well combined and aerated, setting this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 2: Cream Wet Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, beat ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter with ¾ cup light brown sugar and ½ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color—about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a soft texture in your Pumpkin Spice Cookies, so be sure to incorporate plenty of air into the mixture.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree to the creamed mixture. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated, ensuring the batter is smooth and slightly thick. The pumpkin puree adds moisture, enriching the flavor and texture of your cookies.
Step 4: Make Dough
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or spoon until a soft, sticky dough forms. This step is key for achieving perfectly chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies, so make sure not to overmix—just mix until you see no dry flour left, then stop.
Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in a delightful, thick cookie. You can chill the dough for up to 2 days for added convenience!
Step 6: Preheat Oven & Prepare Trays
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal of your Pumpkin Spice Cookies once they’re baked, helping you achieve that beautiful golden-brown exterior. Prepare all your trays in advance to speed up the baking process.
Step 7: Form Cookies
Once the dough is chilled, scoop it out using a tablespoon and roll each piece into balls, about 1.5 tablespoons in size. Roll the balls in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for an extra touch of sweetness, then slightly flatten them before placing them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each for spreading.
Step 8: Bake
Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the tops are set and just beginning to crack. Keep an eye on them—the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool. They should have a warm golden color for the perfect pumpkin spice flavor.
Step 9: Cool
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes on the sheets. This allows them to firm up slightly before being transferred. Then, gently move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their soft, chewy texture while cooling.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Cookies
As the autumn air whispers of warmth and coziness, delight your senses with a complete fall-inspired meal that complements every bite of these delicious cookies.
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Creamy Chai Latte: The spices in this latte echo the flavors of your cookies, creating a harmonious sipping experience that warms you from the inside out. It’s an inviting companion for an afternoon treat.
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Cinnamon Applesauce: This sweet and slightly tangy side is a perfect match, enhancing the pumpkin spice flavor and providing a delightful burst of freshness to each bite.
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Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of velvety pumpkin soup is comforting and seasonal, making for a cozy pairing that embraces autumn’s essence. Consider drizzling a bit of cream over the top for an added touch!
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Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: This dish brings a lovely contrast with its textures and flavors. Toss together roasted squash, spinach, and a tangy vinaigrette for a salad that’s both hearty and refreshing.
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Fall Fruit Salad: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and pomegranate seeds adds a refreshing touch to your dessert spread, balancing the richness of the cookies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Nothing beats a scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream next to warm Pumpkin Spice Cookies. The creamy texture complements the cookies perfectly, creating a dessert duo you can’t resist!
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Mulled Wine: For an adult twist, warm up with mulled wine infused with spices. Its rich, aromatic flavors enhance the warm spices of the cookies, setting a festive mood for gatherings.
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Caramel Dipping Sauce: Who can resist dipping a cookie into luscious caramel? This decadent addition turns each cookie into an indulgent treat, ideal for sharing or a cozy night in.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Spice Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the dough up to 2 days in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Simply cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and roll the dough into balls, coat them in cinnamon-sugar, and place them on lined baking sheets. Bake for just 8-10 minutes until set, and enjoy the comforting aroma filling your kitchen! With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have warm, delicious Pumpkin Spice Cookies ready to delight your family on busy weeknights or special occasions.
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Spice Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful softness.
Refrigerator: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: Freeze Pumpkin Spice Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 2 hours, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before indulging!
Refresh: To revive the cookies’ freshness, warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, bringing back that just-baked softness.
Pumpkin Spice Cookies Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your personal touch on these pumpkin spice cookies and take them to the next level!
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: Replace individual spices with a pumpkin pie spice blend for a simplified flavor boost.
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a deliciously sweet contrast to the pumpkin spice.
- Nuts for Crunch: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that elevates the cookie’s texture.
- Graham Cracker Coating: Roll the cookie balls in crushed graham crackers instead of cinnamon-sugar for a fun twist that echoes classic pumpkin pie.
- Minty Fresh: For a seasonal surprise, add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract for a cool aftertaste that complements the warm spices.
- Coconut Delight: Incorporate ½ cup of shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flavor that beautifully pairs with pumpkin.
- Spicy Upgrade: Increase the ground spices to taste—perhaps add extra cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warming kick.
- Frosted Treats: Top cooled cookies with a simple cream cheese frosting for an indulgent dessert. You could also try a drizzle of the rich maple pumpkin coffee syrup for added sweetness!
For even more delicious fall flavors, consider pairing these treats with my Pumpkin Sugar Cookies or a cozy cup of Maple Pumpkin Coffee. Each bite can be as unique as you!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Cookies
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Use Plain Pumpkin Puree: Always choose plain canned pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added spices and sweeteners that can alter your cookies’ flavor.
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Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off instead of scooping directly. This prevents dense cookies and keeps your Pumpkin Spice Cookies light and fluffy.
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Chill the Dough: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough for at least 2 hours. This step is vital to ensure your cookies maintain their shape and have that perfect soft texture.
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Check Butter Temperature: Make sure your unsalted butter is softened at room temperature. This ensures a smooth mixing process and allows for the right consistency in your cookie dough.
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Slightly Undercook for Softness: If you prefer a softer cookie, take them out of the oven when they’re just set on top. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet from residual heat.
Pumpkin Spice Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely use plain canned pumpkin puree—this adds moisture and the essential flavor! Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains extra sugars and spices that can alter the taste of your cookies.
How should I store my pumpkin spice cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them soft and chewy. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just let them come back to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze the cookie dough or baked cookies?
Yes, you can freeze both! If freezing dough, roll it into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze for 2 hours, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. For baked cookies, freeze them in a single layer, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months, thawing them at room temperature before serving.
What do I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies end up spreading too much, it might be due to warm dough or incorrect measurements. Be sure your butter is softened, not melted, and always chill the dough for at least 2 hours before baking. If necessary, add a bit more flour to achieve a thicker dough for future batches.
Can I customize the spices in this recipe?
Very! You can swap the spices for a ready-made pumpkin pie spice blend if you prefer. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Spice Cookies for Fall Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree to the creamed mixture and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop out the dough and roll into balls, then coat in cinnamon-sugar before placing on baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until tops are set and just beginning to crack.
- Let cool on sheets for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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