Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the cozy spirit of fall while satisfying your sweet tooth, this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These cookies marry the rich, comforting flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with the classic soft, chewy texture of sugar cookies. Perfect for sharing with friends, enjoying with a cup of tea, or packing in lunchboxes, these cookies offer a burst of autumnal goodness in every bite. I couldn’t wait to share this recipe that has quickly become a beloved favorite in my kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe has a simple yet crucial role that brings out the cookie’s tender texture, warm flavor, and inviting aroma. From the creamy butter to the fragrant spices, every element works together to create cookie perfection.

• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Provides richness and helps create a soft, tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds sweetness and helps with cookie structure.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Offers moisture and a subtle molasses note for depth.
• Canned pumpkin puree (1/2 cup): Infuses the cookies with natural pumpkin flavor and moisture.
• Large egg yolk (1): Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with sweet undertones.
• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The structural base that holds the cookies together.
• Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon) and baking soda (1/4 teaspoon): Leavening agents that give the cookies a tender rise.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances out the sweetness and brightens flavors.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds warm, spicy notes that complement pumpkin perfectly.
• Ground nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Imparts a hint of nutty spice.
• Ground ginger (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a gentle peppery warmth.
• Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): Brings a rich, aromatic depth.
• Extra granulated sugar (1/4 cup for rolling): Creates a subtle crunch and sparkle on the cookie surface.

How to Make Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature when your dough is ready. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and promote even baking—plus, cleanup will be a breeze!

Step 2: Creaming Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Mixing in Pumpkin and Flavorings

Next, add the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to your butter-sugar mixture. Stir these ingredients in until everything is fully combined, creating a smooth, aromatic base that elevates the cookie’s moistness and flavor complexity.

Step 4: Combining Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This blend of spices paired with leavening agents spices up the cookies with classic fall flavor while ensuring they rise just right.

Step 5: Bringing it All Together

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the cookies tender instead of tough. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky, ready for the next step.

Step 6: Shaping and Rolling the Dough

Scoop the dough into 1.5-tablespoon-sized balls, then roll each ball in the extra granulated sugar. This adds a delightful sugary crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior and adds a playful sparkle.

Step 7: Placing on the Baking Sheet

Arrange your sugared dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet, ensuring each cookie is spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading without merging. This setup helps them bake evenly and maintain their round shape.

Step 8: Baking to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready once the edges look set and slightly golden, but the centers still appear soft. This balance is key to that chewy-but-not-doughy texture we all crave.

Step 9: Cooling Your Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes—this short rest lets them firm up slightly, making it easier to transfer. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely, letting the flavors settle and the texture finish developing.

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance these cookies with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence. You can also add a light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving to mimic the look of early autumn frost.

Side Dishes

Pair your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with a warm drink like chai tea, spiced latte, or classic hot cocoa. The warm spices in the cookies complement the cozy beverages perfectly, turning an ordinary snack into a comforting experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, arrange your cookies on a festive platter with small bowls of cinnamon whipped cream or pumpkin butter for dipping. You can also sandwich them with cream cheese frosting for a dessert that feels extra special and a little decadent.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Pumpkin Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and soft for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy their cozy flavor anytime without any hassle.

Freezing

If you want to save these cookies for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and thaw beautifully without losing their tender texture.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly-baked warmth, reheat the cookies in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This gently softens them, waking up the fragrant spices and making them taste like they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Fresh pumpkin can work, but you’ll need to cook and puree it first to remove extra moisture. Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and maintains consistent moisture, making your cookies bake perfectly every time.

What if I don’t have all the spices on hand?

Don’t worry if you’re missing some spices! Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are the most important. If you’re short on cloves, you can omit them or add a pinch of allspice as a substitute.

Are these cookies soft or crunchy?

This Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe yields soft and chewy cookies with slightly crisp edges—exactly the kind of texture that makes you want to go back for another bite.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, and make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free for a safe substitution.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking helps control spreading. Also, make sure your butter isn’t too soft or melted when you start; softened but firm butter works best for this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because it captures the heart of fall in such a simple, delicious way. It’s perfect for any occasion where you want to share a little warmth and sweetness with people you care about. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and make these cozy treats part of your seasonal traditions!

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