Pumpkin Cookies

Pumpkin cookies weren’t always my favorite until one afternoon my little niece asked if we could bake “orange cookies” together She didn’t want frosting or chocolate just something soft sweet and simple I pulled out some canned pumpkin and started mixing not expecting anything special but what came out of the oven completely surprised me

They were soft like cake but with the chew of a perfect cookie and the scent of cinnamon filled the whole kitchen Since then I’ve made these pumpkin cookies every fall they’re now a family tradition and a treat I always look forward to with a cozy mug of tea or packed up in a little tin to share with friends

Ingredients :

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Pumpkin puree – The base ingredient for flavor moisture and color
• All-purpose flour – Forms the structure and keeps the cookies soft and chewy
• Brown sugar – Adds depth and rich caramel notes
• Granulated sugar – Helps sweeten and balances texture
• Unsalted butter – Brings richness and that classic cookie flavor
• Egg – Binds everything together and keeps the texture moist
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and enhances the spices
• Baking soda – Helps the cookies puff up gently
• Baking powder – Adds a bit of lift and softness
• Ground cinnamon – Essential for that classic fall spice
• Pumpkin pie spice – A perfect blend of warming spices
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and lifts all the other flavors

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowls – One for wet ingredients and one for dry
• Whisk or hand mixer – For smooth blending and even texture
• Spatula – Ideal for folding and scraping the bowl clean
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy is key for consistent results
• Cookie scoop – Ensures evenly sized cookies for uniform baking
• Baking sheet – A flat pan lined with parchment helps cookies bake evenly
• Cooling rack – Lets cookies cool completely without overbaking

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F and lining my baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl I beat the softened butter with brown and granulated sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy This step gives the cookies that soft bakery feel

Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Egg

Next I mix in the pumpkin puree egg and vanilla extract blending everything until smooth and creamy

Step 4: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl I whisk together the flour baking soda baking powder cinnamon pumpkin pie spice and salt This ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

I slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet using a spatula or mixer on low speed I stir just until combined to avoid overmixing

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop I place rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet leaving space between each one

Step 7: Bake

I bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft They’ll firm up as they cool

Step 8: Cool Completely

After baking I let the cookies cool on the tray for about 5 minutes then I transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving

Tips

Don’t overbake these cookies are meant to be soft and slightly cakey in the center

For extra spice I sometimes add a pinch of cloves or ginger

These are great for frosting too just let them cool completely first

I chill the dough for 30 minutes if I want the cookies to hold their shape better

Ways to Serve

Serve plain or dusted with powdered sugar for a light finish

Pair with coffee tea or hot apple cider for the ultimate fall snack

Frost with cream cheese icing for an indulgent dessert

Package in a fall-themed tin for gifting or party favors

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Pumpkin Cookies?

Yes just let them cool completely then freeze in an airtight container They thaw beautifully and taste just as soft and fresh

Why are my Pumpkin Cookies too cakey?

Pumpkin naturally adds moisture so be sure to measure carefully and avoid using extra eggs which can make them too fluffy

Can I add mix-ins to Pumpkin Cookies?

Absolutely try adding white chocolate chips chopped nuts or even a handful of oats for texture and flavor

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you enjoy baking and sharing these pumpkin cookies as much as I do They’re simple quick and capture all the cozy flavors of fall Don’t forget to save the recipe and share your results with me I’d love to see your take

Happy Cooking!

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