Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm and inviting treat to brighten your day, you’ve come to the right place! My Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is a cherished favorite in my home. These cookies are perfectly chewy, filled with the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices, and they have just the right balance between being soft yet not overly cakey. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, these cookies bring smiles all around.

What makes these cookies truly special is how easy they are to make. You can whip them up in no time, making them perfect for any occasion. Plus, they fill your kitchen with that delightful aroma of fall spices that instantly feel like a warm hug. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to cookie for every season!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require complicated techniques. Perfect for bakers of all levels!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cookies! These pumpkin sugar cookies are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: The dough can be chilled and baked later, making it easy to enjoy fresh cookies whenever you want.
• Delicious flavor: With the rich taste of pumpkin and cozy spices, these cookies are a delightful treat for anyone who loves fall flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delightful cookies. I love how accessible these components are—most are likely already in your pantry!

For the Cookies

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature (2 sticks)
• 3/4 cup (149g) granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup (160g) brown sugar
• 1/3 cup (76g) pumpkin puree (paper towel method – see note below)

Variations

One of the best things about this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and tailor the recipe to suit your taste.

• Add chocolate chips: Mix in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an extra treat that everyone will love.
• Include nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch and depth of flavor.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick!
• Frost them: Top with a simple glaze or cream cheese frosting for an indulgent twist.

How to Make Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Chill the Dough

This recipe requires the dough to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking. Chilling helps create that chewy texture we all adore!

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Puree

To remove excess moisture from pumpkin puree, place it on a few paper towels on a plate. Fold the paper towels over so it’s completely enclosed. After a few minutes, the excess moisture will soak into the paper towels. This step is key for keeping your cookies from becoming too wet.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small mixing bowl, combine your flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Set this aside as we move on to mixing our wet ingredients.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer. Mix for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air into the mixture for lighter cookies.

Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree

Now add in your prepared pumpkin puree and beat again until combined. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor that makes these cookies so special!

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add in your dry ingredients while mixing on low speed or by hand with a spatula until everything is well combined. Don’t worry if the dough feels thick; that’s just how we want it!

Step 7: Form Dough Balls

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, create balls from the dough—about 3 tablespoons each works great! Roll them between your hands into smooth balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Chill them in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes while you prepare to bake.

Step 8: Prep Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). While waiting, put some granulated sugar in a bowl for rolling those cookie balls.

Step 9: Roll in Sugar & Bake

Roll each chilled ball in sugar before placing them about two inches apart on a silicone-lined baking sheet—aiming for about eight per sheet. Bake those beauties for 15-19 minutes or until they have golden edges.

Step 10: Cool & Enjoy!

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack to cool completely. Then comes my favorite part—enjoying these delicious treats!

I hope you love making these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Baking these pumpkin sugar cookies is a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can make your cookies even more amazing!

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to handle, but it also improves the cookie’s texture by allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Use Fresh Spices: Opting for fresh spices rather than pre-ground ones can elevate the flavor profile of your cookies, making them more aromatic and flavorful.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Avoid packing flour into your measuring cup. Instead, spoon it into the cup and level it off with a knife to ensure the right amount is used, which prevents dense cookies.
• Bake in Batches: If you’re making a large batch, bake them in smaller batches to ensure even baking. This helps avoid overcrowding in the oven, leading to perfectly baked cookies.
• Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze unbaked dough balls for future baking!

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

These pumpkin sugar cookies are perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or enjoying them with your family, here are some ideas on how to present this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch while providing a sweet contrast to the pumpkin flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate can create a beautiful presentation and an extra layer of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Hot Apple Cider: This warm beverage complements the spices in the cookies beautifully and offers a comforting touch.
• Vanilla Almond Milk: The nutty flavor pairs well with pumpkin while providing a refreshing contrast.
• Creamy Pumpkin Soup: For a themed meal, serve these cookies alongside a warm bowl of pumpkin soup for a delightful fall-inspired feast.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can balance out the sweetness of the cookies, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, get ready to enjoy these delicious pumpkin sugar cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin sugar cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make the dough in advance or store the baked cookies for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them.

Freezing

• To freeze cookie dough, scoop and roll the balls as directed, then place them on a baking sheet.
• Freeze the dough balls for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen; just place them in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper in between.

Reheating

• For best results, let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying.
• You can reheat baked cookies in a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 5 minutes to restore their softness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I make these pumpkin sugar cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has xanthan gum included for best results.

How do I ensure my Pumpkin Sugar Cookies turn out chewy?

The key is to chill the dough before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances their chewiness!

What makes this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe special?

This recipe stands out because it combines the warm flavors of fall spices with a perfectly chewy texture, making it a delightful treat any time of year.

Can I use canned pumpkin puree instead of fresh?

Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works wonderfully. Just be sure to follow the instructions on removing excess moisture for the perfect cookie consistency.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies will remain fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature or longer if refrigerated or frozen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try this pumpkin sugar cookies recipe! It’s truly special, bursting with flavor and perfect for sharing with family and friends (or keeping all to yourself!). Enjoy every bite as you create these delightful treats—happy baking!