Find out why my readers are calling these pumpkin sugar cookies the best cookie they’ve ever made! This is the ultimate chewy pumpkin cookie – not too cakey or dense and packed with pumpkin flavor. Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or simply as a delightful treat to enjoy with your coffee, this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is sure to impress everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Chewy Texture: Unlike many pumpkin cookies that can be cakey, these are perfectly chewy, making each bite a delight.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up in no time.
- Versatile Flavor: The warm spices combined with pumpkin create a comforting flavor that pairs well with various toppings or frosting.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Halloween, Thanksgiving, or just a cozy evening at home, these cookies fit right in.
- Freezer Friendly: You can freeze the dough balls and bake them fresh whenever you want a warm cookie!
Tools and Preparation
To create your perfect pumpkin sugar cookies, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Cookie scoop
- Baking sheets
- Silicone or parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without any mess.
- Electric mixer: Makes it easy to cream the butter and sugars quickly for a fluffy texture.
- Cookie scoop: Helps in forming uniform dough balls for even baking.
- Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy surface for baking cookies without sticking.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe:
- 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)
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. It helps make the cookies chewy!
Step 2: Prepare Pumpkin Puree
To remove excess moisture from pumpkin puree:
1. Place the pumpkin puree on a plate lined with paper towels.
2. Fold the paper towels over the puree so it’s completely enclosed.
3. Let it sit for a few minutes until excess moisture soaks into the paper towels.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl:
1. Combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
2. Set aside.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer for about 1-2 minutes until fluffy.
Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree
Add in the prepared pumpkin puree:
1. Beat again until fully combined.
Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture
Gradually add in your dry ingredients:
1. Mix on low speed or by hand with a spatula until everything is combined. The dough will be thick.
Step 7: Form Dough Balls
Using a cookie scoop:
1. Form balls of dough about 3 tablespoons each and roll them between your hands.
2. Place them on a silicone or parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes.
Step 8: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350ºF:
1. Place about 1/4 cup of sugar in a bowl for rolling your cookies.
Step 9: Roll and Bake Cookies
Roll each chilled dough ball in the sugar:
1. Place cookies about 2 inches apart on your baking sheet—aim for about eight per sheet.
2. Bake for approximately 15-19 minutes or until the edges have a faint golden color.
Step 10: Cool Before Serving
Once baked:
1. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Sugar Cookies! They are sure to be loved by everyone who tries them!
How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe
Serving pumpkin sugar cookies is a delightful experience, especially during the fall season. These cookies pair wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to make your pumpkin sugar cookies even more enjoyable.
With Coffee or Tea
- Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies, making for a perfect afternoon treat.
- Tea: A warm cup of tea brings out the spices in the cookies and creates a cozy atmosphere.
With Cream Cheese Frosting
- Frosting: Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top for an extra creamy and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Dessert Platter: Arrange your pumpkin sugar cookies on a dessert platter alongside brownies, mini cheesecakes, and fruit tarts for a festive look at gatherings.
With Ice Cream
- Ice Cream Sandwich: Use two pumpkin sugar cookies to create an ice cream sandwich. Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream works particularly well.
With Whipped Cream
- Whipped Cream: Top each cookie with dollops of whipped cream for a light and airy addition that enhances their texture.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe
Perfecting your pumpkin sugar cookies is key to achieving the ultimate chewy texture and flavor. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out great every time.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough before baking to ensure your cookies maintain their shape and achieve that perfect chewy consistency.
- Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use freshly ground spices rather than pre-ground ones. This enhances the overall taste of your cookies.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour. Too much flour can make cookies dense instead of chewy.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them from the oven when they are lightly golden around the edges for optimal texture.
- Store Properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and fresh.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe
Pairing side dishes with pumpkin sugar cookies can elevate your dessert experience. While these cookies are delightful on their own, here are some great side dishes that complement their flavors perfectly.
- Apple Crisp: This warm dessert adds a contrasting texture and tartness that balances the sweetness of pumpkin sugar cookies.
- Cinnamon Roll Casserole: A sweet breakfast option that goes well with coffee, providing another layer of fall flavors.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: A seasonal favorite that enhances the overall pumpkin theme while offering a comforting drink alongside your cookies.
- Pecan Pie Bars: Rich and nutty bars that contrast nicely with the soft texture of pumpkin sugar cookies for a variety of tastes.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce over your cookie or serve it as a dip for an indulgent treat.
- Chai Latte: The spices in chai provide warmth and complement the flavors in your pumpkin sugar cookies beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making pumpkin sugar cookies can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of.
- Using too much pumpkin puree: Adding more pumpkin than the recipe calls for can make the cookies too moist and cause them to spread too much during baking. Stick to the specified amount for the best texture.
- Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough may result in flat cookies. Chilling helps maintain their shape and improves chewiness, so don’t skip this vital step!
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing the dough too much after adding the dry ingredients can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much or too little flour will affect your cookie’s consistency. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
- Ignoring baking time: Baking for too long can yield dry cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as they are lightly golden at the edges.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Timeframe: Store baked pumpkin sugar cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
- Container: Use a plastic or glass container with a tight-fitting lid to keep them fresh.
Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Timeframe: These cookies can be frozen for up to three months.
- Container: Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie on low power for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to store pumpkin sugar cookies?
To keep your pumpkin sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I make this pumpkin sugar cookies recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring that it has xanthan gum or adding it separately if needed.
How can I customize my pumpkin sugar cookies?
You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to enhance flavor and texture. Experimenting with spices like cardamom or allspice also works well!
Why are my pumpkin sugar cookies too cakey?
Too much liquid from excess pumpkin puree or overmixing can lead to cakey cookies. Ensure accurate measurements and avoid overmixing after adding dry ingredients.
How do I know when my pumpkin sugar cookies are done baking?
The edges should be lightly golden while the centers appear soft. They will continue cooking slightly after removal from the oven.
Final Thoughts
These pumpkin sugar cookies offer a perfect balance of chewiness and rich pumpkin flavor, making them an irresistible treat any time of year. Their versatility allows you to customize each batch according to your preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy delicious homemade cookies that everyone will love!
Pumpkin Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of autumn with these chewy Pumpkin Sugar Cookies. Bursting with rich pumpkin flavor and perfectly spiced, this recipe strikes the ideal balance between soft and chewy, making it a crowd-pleaser at any fall gathering.
Ingredients
- 3 cups 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 unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
Instructions
- Chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Prepare pumpkin puree by squeezing excess moisture out using paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, spices, salt).
- In another bowl, beat together butter and sugars until fluffy.
- Mix in the pumpkin puree until combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until combined.
- Form balls of dough and refrigerate for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and roll dough balls in sugar before placing them on baking sheets.
- Bake for about 15-19 minutes until edges are golden; cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in chocolate chips or nuts. Ensure accurate measurements for best results; use the spoon-and-level method for flour.