Pumpkin Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic flavors of a beloved autumn dessert, blending the warmth of pumpkin pie with the convenience of a cookie. This scrumptious creation combines the rich, smooth taste of pumpkin puree with a blend of aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, reminiscent of traditional pumpkin pie. The dough, soft and chewy, offers a comforting texture, while the inclusion of brown sugar adds a hint of caramel-like sweetness. MORE COOKIES RECIPE

Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Each pumpkin pie cookie serves as a miniature homage to the quintessential fall treat. The cookies are often topped with a light glaze or a sprinkle of sugar, which not only enhances their flavor but also adds a delightful contrast in texture. These treats are perfect for cozy gatherings, as a snack with a warm cup of tea, or as a festive addition to any holiday table.

What sets pumpkin pie cookies apart is their ability to capture the essence of pumpkin pie in a bite-sized form. They’re incredibly versatile, too – you can add nuts, chocolate chips, or a cream cheese frosting to elevate them further. Whether you’re a pumpkin spice aficionado or a cookie lover, pumpkin pie cookies are sure to tantalize your taste buds and bring a touch of autumn magic to your kitchen.

PREP TIME10 minutes
COOK TIME25 minutes
COOLING TIME30 minutes
COURSESnacks
CUISINEAmerican
SERVINGS16 cookies
Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Glaze (Optional)

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixer (hand or stand)
  • Spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Cooling rack
  • Whisk (for glaze)
  • Small bowl (for glaze)

Making of Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Making the Cookie Dough

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
  • In a larger bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a mixer until light and fluffy.
  • Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Baking the Cookies

  • Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
  • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Making the Glaze (Optional)

  • In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled cookies.
Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Decorating options for cookies

  • Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Before baking, sprinkle a mix of cinnamon and sugar on the cookies for a simple, sweet decoration.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
  • Cream Cheese Frosting: Top the cookies with a dollop of cream cheese frosting, which pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
  • Nutty Garnish: Press a pecan or walnut half into the top of each cookie before baking for a crunchy texture.
  • Pumpkin Seeds: For a unique twist, add roasted pumpkin seeds on top of the icing for an extra pumpkin flavor and crunch.
  • Fondant Decorations: Craft small fondant leaves or pumpkins and place them on top of the cookies.
  • Glazed Finish: Brush a light glaze over the cookies for a shiny, sweet finish.
  • Edible Glitter or Gold Leaf: For a festive touch, sprinkle edible glitter or apply small pieces of gold leaf.

Tips and Tricks for Making Pumpkin Pie Cookies

  • Consistent Size: Ensure your cookies are of uniform size for even baking. Use a cookie scoop if available.
  • Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before rolling and cutting.
  • Don’t Overwork the Dough: Over-mixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Spice Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. Add more cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger if desired.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure ingredients like butter and eggs are at room temperature for better integration.
  • Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven as baking times may vary. Remove cookies when they are just turning golden.
  • Let Cookies Cool: Allow the cookies to cool completely before decorating to prevent icing from melting.
  • Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Add a touch of maple syrup or vanilla bean for a unique flavor twist.
Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Storage of leftover cookies

Room Temperature Storage

  • Place the cookies in an airtight container.
  • Separate layers of cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Refrigerator Storage

  • For longer freshness, store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • They can last up to 1 week when refrigerated.

Freezing

  • Wrap the cookies individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Variations in the Pumpkin Pie Cookies

  • Maple-Glazed Pumpkin Pie Cookies: Drizzle a maple syrup glaze over the cookies for a rich, autumnal flavor.
  • Chai-Spiced Twist: Incorporate chai spices like cardamom, cloves, and black pepper into the dough for a spicy kick.
  • Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies: Add dark or white chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful chocolatey contrast.
  • Pecan-Studded Cookies: Mix chopped pecans into the dough for added texture and nutty flavor.
  • Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies: Combine rolled oats with the flour for a chewier texture and added fiber.
  • Cream Cheese Swirl: Swirl cream cheese into the cookie dough before baking for a creamy, tangy flavor.
  • Pumpkin Ginger Snap Cookies: Add ground ginger and crystallized ginger pieces for a zingy, spicy twist.
  • Pumpkin Pie Cookie Sandwiches: Fill two cookies with a pumpkin spice cream cheese filling for a decadent sandwich cookie.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg as substitutes for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-free dietary needs.

Nutritional Facts of Pumpkin Pie Cookies (Per Cookie)

  • Calories: Approximately 130-160 kcal
  • Fat: 5-7g (varies with ingredients like butter)
  • Saturated Fat: 3g (depends on the type of butter used)
  • Cholesterol: 20-30mg (based on egg content)
  • Sodium: 80-120mg (based on the amount of salt and baking powder/soda)
  • Carbohydrates: 20-25g
  • Fiber: 1g (due to pumpkin puree)
  • Sugar: 10-15g (varies with added sugar)
  • Protein: 2g

More Cookies Recipes You’ll Love

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Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ’s

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin to a smooth consistency similar to canned puree.

The standard recipe is not vegan, as it contains egg and butter. However, you can modify the recipe using plant-based butter and egg substitutes to make it vegan-friendly.

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the other ingredients used are also gluten-free.

Absolutely! Chocolate chips can be a great addition. You can mix in semi-sweet, dark, or white chocolate chips to the dough.

The cookies are done when they are slightly golden around the edges and set in the middle. It usually takes about 10-12 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).

Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Conclusion

Pumpkin Pie Cookies encapsulate the essence of autumn in a delightful, bite-sized treat. Combining the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Pumpkin Pie Cookies cookies are versatile, easily adaptable to various dietary needs, and can be decorated to enhance their festive appeal.

Whether served at a family gathering, as a cozy snack, or as a part of a holiday spread, they bring a touch of warmth and joy to any occasion. The simplicity of the recipe, coupled with the potential for creative decoration, makes them a favorite for both bakers and cookie lovers alike.

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