Name: Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies – Your Cozy Fall Treats Await
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (Adds richness and moisture); 1 cup sugar (Sweetens the cookies); 1 cup pumpkin puree (Provides moisture and flavor); 1 large egg (Binds ingredients together); 2 cups all-purpose flour (Forms the cookie structure); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Helps cookies rise); 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (Classic fall flavor); 1 pinch salt (Enhances flavors)

As the crisp autumn air sets in, I’m reminded of the magical transformation that takes place in our kitchens—warm spices wafting through the air and the comforting sight of baked goods emerging from the oven. This is the season for cozy moments, and what better way to embrace fall than with these delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies? Soft and chewy, every bite is infused with enchanting pumpkin pie spices, making them an irresistible treat for both festive gatherings and quiet afternoons at home. Plus, they’re effortlessly easy to whip up, offering a rewarding escape from the hustle of fast food. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—what twist will you add to make them your own?

Why Are Pumpkin Spice Cookies Perfect?

Irresistible Fall Flavor: These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies fill your home with the classic aroma of autumn, featuring a delightful blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

Simplicity in Each Step: With just a few easy steps, you can create a batch of cookies that’s perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike.

Versatile Indulgence: Feel free to experiment! Adding chocolate chips or rolling them in cinnamon sugar can elevate your cookies to a whole new level.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for sharing at gatherings, they bring smiles to friends and family, whether with warm apple cider or fresh chai.

Storable Goodness: These cookies stay fresh in an airtight container for days, making them a great make-ahead treat to enjoy or share.

As you gather ingredients, consider pairing these cookies with a cozy drink or explore variations, like a drizzle of icing or trying out Chocolate Lava Brownie Cookies for a delightful twist!

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use unsalted for better control of salt levels.
Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps create a tender texture; substitute with brown sugar for added flavor.
Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and a slight pumpkin flavor; canned or homemade works well.
Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds structure; no direct substitutes, but a flax egg can work for vegan versions.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cookie structure; for gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Contributes the classic warm fall flavor; pre-made blends can be used in its place.
Salt – Enhances flavors; reducing it can be considered depending on personal preference.

These delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are sure to evoke the spirit of fall in every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies. As the oven warms up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, ensuring the cookies won’t stick and make cleanup easy after baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. Watch for the mixture to become light and fluffy, which signifies that air is incorporated. This step is essential to achieve a tender cookie texture, creating a delightful foundation for the warm spices.

Step 3: Mix in Pumpkin and Egg
Add 1 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 large egg to the creamed mixture. Continue mixing until the ingredients are smooth and well combined, about 1-2 minutes. The pumpkin puree not only enhances the cookies’ flavor but also contributes to their moistness, making them irresistibly soft.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. This step ensures that the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is vital for the uniform rise and flavor of your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies.

Step 5: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing—this will help keep your cookies soft. The dough should be a bit sticky, reflecting the moisture from the pumpkin, but coherent enough to hold its shape when scooped.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows the Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies to spread slightly while baking without merging into each other.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when the edges turn lightly golden, while the centers remain soft. This slight underbaking ensures a chewy texture, characteristic of an ideal pumpkin cookie.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to cooling racks. This resting time allows the Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies to set properly, ensuring they won’t fall apart. Enjoy these warm delights with your favorite cozy beverage!

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delectable cookies and make them your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter for a rich, creamy taste without the dairy.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Mix in a cup of chocolate chips for a sweet contrast that complements the warm spices beautifully. Think of that delicious combination of flavors!
Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a nutty, earthy flavor that enhances the cozy vibe of fall.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to ensure everyone can enjoy these delightful cookies without compromising on taste or texture.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Roll the dough balls in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking for a delightful sugary crust that adds extra sweetness.
Icing Drizzle: After baking, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or almond milk for a sweet finishing touch that looks as good as it tastes.
Spicy Heat: For those who love a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to the dough for a warm spice that contrast beautifully with the sweetness.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies: Replace half the flour with cocoa powder for a delightful twist—chocolate and pumpkin is a delicious combination you won’t want to miss!

As you explore these variations, don’t forget to enjoy them alongside a warm drink or even try serving them with Chocolate Chip Cookies for a delightful dessert spread. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness any time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Just scoop the dough onto baking sheets and cover them tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. This chilling step enhances flavors and maintains the softness of the cookies. When you’re ready to bake, simply take the dough out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. Then bake as directed for delightful cookies that taste just as fresh as if made that day!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies?

As you indulge in the cozy delight of these cookies, consider pairing them with complementary treats or drinks to elevate your fall experience.

Chai Latte: The warm spices of chai invite a comforting embrace, making it the perfect sip alongside these cookies.
Apple Cider: Hot or chilled, this classic fall beverage harmonizes beautifully with the pumpkin flavor for a seasonal celebration.
Cream Cheese Frosting: A luscious topping adds creaminess and tang, enriching the already delightful sweetness of the cookies.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the cookies enhances their flavors and adds a rich, indulgent touch.
Spiced Nuts: Crunchy, spiced nuts balance the soft texture of the cookies, offering a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.

For a crisp, refreshing side, why not serve a fresh fruit salad? The lightness of apples and pears provides a crisp bite, complementing the cookies perfectly. Enjoy experimenting with these combinations for the ultimate cozy treat!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Fridge: For best flavor retention, refrigerate cookies in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks, though they may harden slightly.

Freezer: Freeze your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a fresh-baked experience.

Dough Storage: Refrigerate unused dough for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze it for up to 1 month. When ready to use, simply thaw in the fridge overnight.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Use Fresh Spices: Fresh pumpkin pie spice will significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies and deliver that warm, fall aroma everyone loves.
Chill the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking helps the cookies maintain their shape and ensures a thicker, chewier texture.
Mix Carefully: Be gentle when blending wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than the soft, chewy delightful texture we seek in our Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies.
Monitor Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies in the last few minutes of baking. Remove them when the edges are golden but the centers are soft for the best result.
Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container for up to a week to keep them fresh and chewy. You can also freeze the dough for up to a month for a quick treat later on.

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of pumpkin puree should I use for these cookies?
You can use either canned or homemade pumpkin puree. Canned pumpkin is convenient and often yields consistent results, while homemade can add a fresher taste. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree without additives.

How should I store my pumpkin spice sugar cookies for freshness?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This will keep them soft and chewy. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them—which can extend freshness up to 2 weeks, although they might become slightly firmer.

Can I freeze pumpkin spice sugar cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze your pumpkin spice sugar cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature or heat them in the oven for a delightful fresh-baked experience.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to scoop, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to handle. If it’s still too sticky even after chilling, you can gradually add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until your desired consistency is reached.

Are these cookies suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
These pumpkin spice sugar cookies are vegetarian. If you need to make them vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Additionally, for gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

How do I achieve thicker cookies?
For thicker cookies, chilling the dough is key. After mixing your dough, let it sit covered in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the cookies keep their shape and results in a chewier texture once baked.