Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Pumpkin Pie Cookies: Soft, Spiced, and Irresistibly Delicious 🍂🍪✨

1. Introduction

Welcome to the cozy world of Pumpkin Pie Cookies, a delightful fusion of two fall favorites—pumpkin pie and cookies—that brings the warm, spiced flavors of autumn into every bite. These soft, cake-like treats are infused with pumpkin puree and aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, making them a perfect addition to your seasonal baking repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, contributing to a school bake sale, or simply craving a comforting snack at home, these cookies are sure to satisfy your pumpkin cravings.

To learn why pumpkin is a nutrient-packed ingredient perfect for adding flavor and nutrition to your recipes, visit this link. For tips on crafting perfectly soft cookies, explore our guide on cookie techniques here.

2. What Are Pumpkin Pie Cookies?

Pumpkin Pie Cookies capture the essence of fall in a soft, spiced treat that’s both comforting and indulgent. Their cake-like texture is achieved by incorporating pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, while an optional creamy glaze adds the finishing touch. These cookies are versatile enough to serve as breakfast bites, dessert delights, or thoughtful homemade gifts, making them a seasonal favorite for any occasion.

For more fall-inspired desserts, browse our collection of seasonal baking recipes here.

3. Ingredients List (Exact Measurements)

To create these irresistible Pumpkin Pie Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk (or cream)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed graham crackers for garnish

These carefully selected ingredients ensure your cookies will be both flavorful and festive. For more ingredient ideas, explore our guide on cozy autumn snacks here.

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cookie Dough

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ¼ cup of brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and the spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough will be soft but scoopable. For dough-making tips, visit our guide on perfectly soft cookies here.

Baking the Cookies

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon if desired (the cookies won’t spread much). Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are soft. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. For baking advice, explore our resource on pumpkin recipes here.

Making the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2–3 tablespoons of milk (or cream), and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies using a spoon or piping bag. Sprinkle with cinnamon or crushed graham crackers for extra flair. For glazing inspiration, browse our collection of decorative dessert ideas here.

Finishing Touches

Allow the glaze to set for 10–15 minutes before serving. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for longer storage. For presentation ideas, explore our guide on holiday cookie inspiration here.

5. Customizing Your Cookies

To make your Pumpkin Pie Cookies truly unique, consider these customizations:

• Spice Blends: Swap pumpkin pie spice for individual spices for a personalized blend.
• Mix-Ins: Add white chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
• Glaze Variations: Experiment with cream cheese frosting or maple drizzle for a different topping.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a safe alternative.

These tweaks ensure the recipe suits diverse tastes and dietary needs. For more customization ideas, check out our easy recipe swaps here.

6. Serving Suggestions

These cookies shine when served warm with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of spiced cider for a cozy treat. Pair them with other fall-inspired desserts like apple pie or caramel popcorn for a seasonal feast. Package them in decorative tins or bags for thoughtful homemade gifts during the holidays. For more pairing ideas, browse our collection of family-friendly treats here.

7. Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable:

• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, egg substitutes, and dairy-free milk for the glaze.
• Sugar Substitutes: Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a healthier twist.
• Sweet-and-Salty Contrast: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the glaze for a delightful balance of flavors.

These variations ensure everyone can enjoy the cookies. For more substitution ideas, check out our healthy swaps here.

8. Nutritional Information

Each Pumpkin Pie Cookie contains approximately 120 calories. Here’s the macronutrient breakdown per cookie:

• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fats: 5g
• Proteins: 1g

Please note these values may vary slightly based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used. Enjoy responsibly!

9. FAQs Section

Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:

Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, but ensure it’s cooked, pureed, and drained to remove excess moisture. Fresh pumpkin tends to be more watery than canned, which may affect the texture of the cookies.

Q: Why did my cookies turn out flat?

If your cookies turned out flat, ensure you measure flour accurately and avoid overmixing the dough. Overmixing can cause the cookies to spread too much during baking.

Q: How do I store leftover cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer storage. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Q: Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, freeze unglazed cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.

10. Conclusion

Making Pumpkin Pie Cookies is a simple yet rewarding way to bring the cozy flavors of fall into your kitchen. With their soft texture, warm spices, and endless customization options, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite for any occasion. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with your own twists, this dessert promises to delight everyone who tries it.

We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos on social media using the hashtag #PumpkinPieCookies and tag us for a chance to be featured. Have feedback or questions? Leave a comment below—we’re here to help! For more easy baking recipes, explore our collection of fall dessert inspiration here. Happy baking! 🍂🍪✨

Print