Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you love the cozy flavors of autumn wrapped up in a soft, chewy treat, then this Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe is going to become your new go-to. These cookies boast a tender crumb infused with warm pumpkin and a perfect blend of classic fall spices. They’re sweet, lightly spiced, and have just the right touch of pumpkin goodness to make every bite feel like a little celebration of the season. Whether you want a comforting snack with your coffee or a festive cookie to share, these cookies deliver all the autumn vibes you could wish for.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, yet every one of them plays a key role in making these cookies soft, flavorful, and perfectly spiced. From the creamy butter that lends richness to the aromatic spices that bring out pumpkin’s best side, each element is essential and lovingly chosen.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a creamy base and tender texture.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with structure.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Gives moisture and deep caramel notes.
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree: The star of the show, delivering moisture and that signature pumpkin flavor.
• 1 large egg yolk: Enriches the dough and helps bind it.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out flavors beautifully.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The structure that holds everything together.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a soft texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acid in pumpkin for tender results.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic spice that brings warmth and comfort.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Gives a gentle zing and spice.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Infuses a fragrant, slightly smoky note.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling): Creates a delightful sugary crust on the outside of each cookie.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Surface

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat so your cookies don’t stick and cleanup is a breeze. Having the oven warmed and the tray ready means your dough can go in as soon as you’re done mixing.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mix is light and fluffy — about 2 to 3 minutes. This step aerates your dough, ensuring that your cookies will be tender and melt-in-your-mouth.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin, Egg Yolk, and Vanilla

Next, stir in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well combined. These ingredients bring moisture, richness, and that unmistakable pumpkin-spice warmth to your cookie dough.

Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This blend of spices and leaveners is what makes this Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe stand out with its perfectly balanced flavor and texture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, mixing on low speed just until everything is combined. Overmixing here can make the cookies tough, so stop stirring as soon as you see no flour streaks.

Step 6: Shape Dough Balls and Roll in Sugar

Scoop the dough into balls about 1.5 tablespoons each, then roll these into the extra granulated sugar. This sugar coating gives the cookies a sparkly, slightly crunchy exterior that contrasts wonderfully with the soft center.

Step 7: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the sugared dough balls on your prepared sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each so they have room to spread while baking. Proper spacing ensures your cookies keep their charming round shape.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll want to watch for edges that are set but centers that still have a little softness — that’s the sign of chewy, just-right cookies.

Step 9: Cool Before Enjoying

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes after baking to firm up, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time helps them finish setting up without losing that tender texture you love.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Try dusting your cooled cookies lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle a bit of white chocolate for extra sweetness and eye appeal. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking can also enhance that spice kick!

Side Dishes

These cookies pair perfectly with a hot cup of spiced tea, pumpkin latte, or even a glass of cold milk. For a festive twist, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a comforting dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe on a charming autumn-themed platter with fresh cranberries, pecans, or mini pumpkins for seasonal flair. You can also sandwich two cookies with cream cheese frosting to make delightful pumpkin-flavored cookie sandwiches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Placing a slice of bread in the container helps maintain their softness by keeping moisture in.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cookies last up to 3 months and can be thawed at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-baked warmth, pop a cookie in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm in a low oven for 3 to 5 minutes. This will bring back that tender, soft texture and enhance the pumpkin spice aroma.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, you can make your own pumpkin puree from fresh pumpkin, but be sure it’s cooked and mashed very smoothly. Keep in mind that homemade puree can have higher moisture content, so you might need to adjust the flour slightly.

Can I substitute spices if I don’t have all of them?

Absolutely! Cinnamon and nutmeg are the most critical for this recipe’s warm flavor, but if you’re missing ginger or cloves, you can leave them out or substitute with a pinch of allspice for a different twist.

Will these cookies spread too much while baking?

Because of the pumpkin puree and the balanced leavening agents, these cookies hold their shape nicely. Rolling them in sugar before baking also helps maintain a good texture and shape during baking.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that works for baking should be fine. Just make sure your blend includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for best results.

How do I make the cookies chewier?

To get extra chewiness, consider adding a little bit more brown sugar or slightly underbaking the cookies, pulling them out of the oven as soon as the edges are set and the centers are soft.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe is such a delightful way to bring the flavors of fall right into your kitchen with ease and joy. I genuinely hope you give it a try because nothing beats the smell of freshly baked pumpkin spice cookies filling your home and the warm comfort they bring with every bite. Baking these cookies makes any day feel a little cozier and a lot sweeter. Enjoy the season with this personal favorite treat!

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