Pumpkin spice cookies that will delight your taste buds!

Introduction to Pumpkin Spice Cookies

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving the warm, cozy flavors of fall. That’s when I whip up a batch of pumpkin spice cookies. These delightful treats are not just a quick solution for a busy day; they’re a hug in cookie form! Perfect for sharing with family or enjoying with a cup of tea, these pumpkin spice cookies will surely delight your taste buds. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time savoring the season with your loved ones.

Pumpkin spice cookies that will delight your taste buds!

Print Recipe

Delicious pumpkin spice cookies that are perfect for fall and will satisfy your sweet cravings.

• Author: Chef Samantha
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix well.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
• For added flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to three months.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Cookies

These pumpkin spice cookies are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just 27 minutes, making them a perfect treat for those hectic afternoons. The rich, spiced flavor will transport you to a cozy autumn day, while the soft, chewy texture will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, they’re versatile enough to please even the pickiest eaters!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful pumpkin spice cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show! It adds moisture and a rich flavor that screams fall.
• Brown sugar: It brings a deep sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor, making your cookies extra chewy.
• Granulated sugar: This balances the sweetness and helps achieve that perfect cookie texture.
• Unsalted butter: Softened butter is essential for a creamy base, contributing to a tender crumb.
• Egg: It binds everything together and adds richness to the cookies.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookies, providing structure and stability.
• Baking soda and baking powder: These leavening agents help your cookies rise and become fluffy.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger: These spices create that warm, cozy flavor we all love in fall treats.
• Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors, making each bite more delicious.
• Vanilla extract: It adds a lovely aroma and depth to the overall flavor.

For those looking to mix things up, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for an extra crunch. If you’re out of pumpkin puree, you can substitute it with applesauce, but the flavor will be different. All ingredient quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for your convenience, ready for printing!

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is crucial for baking perfect pumpkin spice cookies. This ensures that the cookies bake evenly and rise properly. A hot oven helps create that delightful golden edge while keeping the center soft and chewy. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. This process is essential for achieving a light and fluffy texture in your cookies. The air you incorporate while creaming helps them rise beautifully. Plus, the combination of sugars adds depth to the flavor, making each bite irresistible!

Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Egg

Next, mix in the pumpkin puree and egg. The pumpkin not only brings that signature fall flavor but also adds moisture, keeping your cookies soft. The egg acts as a binder, ensuring everything holds together perfectly. You’ll love how the mixture transforms into a rich, velvety batter!

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Each dry ingredient plays a vital role: flour provides structure, while baking soda and powder help the cookies rise. The spices? They create that warm, cozy aroma that fills your kitchen with the essence of fall!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies. A gentle fold is all you need to create a tender, chewy texture that everyone will love!

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking. This little tip ensures that each cookie has room to grow into its delicious self!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. To check for doneness, gently press the center of a cookie; it should spring back slightly. Remember, they will continue to cook a bit after you take them out, so don’t overbake!

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling process is key to achieving that perfect texture. Once cooled, they’ll be soft, chewy, and ready to be devoured!

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper; it prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop to portion the dough.
• Experiment with spices; a pinch of cloves can add a delightful twist!
• Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients. Any size will do!
• Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a whisk and some elbow grease can do the job too.
• Baking sheet: Use a standard cookie sheet or any flat oven-safe tray.
• Parchment paper: If you don’t have it, greasing the baking sheet works as an alternative.
• Cookie scoop or spoon: A scoop ensures uniform cookies, but a regular spoon will work just fine!

Variations of Pumpkin Spice Cookies

• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Spice Cookies: Add a cup of chocolate chips for a sweet twist that pairs perfectly with the spices.
• Nuts Galore: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter.
• Spiced Up: Experiment with additional spices like cloves or allspice for a more complex flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Spice Cookies

• Pair these cookies with a warm cup of chai or spiced apple cider for a cozy treat.
• Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce.
• Present them on a rustic wooden platter for a charming autumn display.

FAQs about Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth. Canned pumpkin puree is convenient, but fresh pumpkin can add a lovely flavor.

How do I store leftover pumpkin spice cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to three months!

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.

What can I add to enhance the flavor of my pumpkin spice cookies?

Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. These additions can elevate the flavor and texture!

Are pumpkin spice cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious cookies!

Final Thoughts

Making pumpkin spice cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories and embracing the warmth of the season. The aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is like a cozy blanket, wrapping you in comfort. Each bite is a delightful reminder of autumn’s charm, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying solo with a cup of tea. Whether you’re a busy mom or a professional, these cookies offer a sweet escape from the daily grind. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the joy of baking fill your home with love and laughter!