If you’re looking for that perfect baked treat to embody the cozy flavors of fall, you simply must try this Pumpkin Spice Cutouts Recipe. These soft, spiced cookies deliver a delightful blend of pumpkin purée and aromatic pumpkin pie spices, wrapped up in charming cutout shapes that bring a festive, homemade feel to any gathering. Whether you want a comforting snack or a stellar dessert to share, these cutouts are a warm hug in cookie form, packed with flavor and just the right hint of sweetness.

Pumpkin Spice Cutouts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how just a handful of simple ingredients come together to create such an irresistible fall classic. Each one plays a vital role—whether it’s contributing to the texture, flavor, or the vibrant autumnal color that makes these cookies so inviting.

All-purpose flour (2¾ cups): The sturdy base that gives these cookies structure and the perfect bite.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the dough rise gently, keeping cutouts light and tender.
Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Balances the acidity and promotes a beautiful golden color on the edges.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances every flavor, making the spices and pumpkin shine.
Pumpkin pie spice (2 teaspoons): The star blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that gives these cookies their signature cozy aroma.
Unsalted butter, softened (½ cup): Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the dough with a clean, classic sweetness.
Brown sugar, packed (½ cup): Brings a deeper, caramel-like flavor and moisture to the cookies.
Large egg (1): Binds everything together and adds richness.
Pumpkin purée (¾ cup): The natural flavor booster that makes these cookies uniquely pumpkin-packed and wonderfully moist.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor with a warm, sweet note.
Powdered sugar or icing (optional): Perfect for decorating and adding a festive finishing touch.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cutouts Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice in a medium bowl. This ensures the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed so every bite bursts with that comforting pumpkin aroma.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is crucial—it traps air that helps the cookies rise and develop a tender texture while balancing sweetness.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg, pumpkin purée, and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture until combined. The pumpkin purée lends moisture and that unforgettable autumn flavor, while vanilla adds subtle depth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated. Overmixing can result in tough cookies, so a gentle hand here will keep your cutouts delicate and soft.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Divide your dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least one hour. This chilling step is key—it solidifies the fats and prevents spreading, so your cutout shapes hold beautifully in the oven.

Step 6: Roll and Cut the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll one dough portion out to about ¼-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to shape the dough into festive designs, then transfer them carefully to the baking sheets, spacing about an inch apart.

Step 7: Bake Until Just Golden

Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them—overbaking can dry them out. Once done, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cookies set and prevents breakage.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cutouts Recipe

Garnishes

Decorating with powdered sugar or a simple icing glaze adds that dreamy finishing touch and brings out the festive spirit of these Pumpkin Spice Cutouts. You can get creative by piping cute designs or dusting with cinnamon sugar for a sparkly effect. It’s the perfect way to make these cookies extra special for parties or gift-giving.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a hot beverage—think creamy lattes, chai tea, or even a warm spiced apple cider. The cozy warmth of your drink will complement the soft texture and spice notes, making every bite irresistible. They’re also lovely alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun twist.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving these Pumpkin Spice Cutouts on a rustic wooden platter surrounded by mini pumpkins and autumn leaves instantly elevates their charm. Wrapping a stack of cookies with a ribbon makes for thoughtful gifting. For holiday gatherings, consider arranging them in a colorful tin with festive tissue paper or creating a cookie tree display for a playful centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your leftover Pumpkin Spice Cutouts in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days, making them the perfect make-ahead treat. Layering parchment paper between cookies keeps them from sticking together.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies longer, portion the unbaked dough into disks and freeze them wrapped in plastic wrap. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then roll and bake as directed. You can also freeze fully baked cookies by placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To refresh frozen or stored cookies, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. This warms them through, softens the edges, and brings back that freshly baked feel. Avoid the microwave if possible—it can make cookies rubbery.

FAQs

Can I substitute pumpkin purée with canned pumpkin pie filling?

It’s best to use plain pumpkin purée because pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sweeteners that could throw off the flavor balance and texture of the cutouts.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading and helps the cookies maintain their cutout shapes. Also, be mindful not to overwork the dough after chilling—it keeps the texture tender and the shape intact.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. You might need to adjust moisture slightly, so start with a little less flour and add if necessary.

What’s the best way to decorate these cookies for a festive look?

A simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and a touch of vanilla works wonders. For added fun, use colored icing or sprinkle with edible glitter to suit seasons or occasions.

Are these Pumpkin Spice Cutouts suitable for vegans?

As written, the recipe includes butter and egg, so it isn’t vegan. However, you can try vegan butter substitutes and egg replacers to make them plant-based, though texture might vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about sharing homemade cookies, especially when they bring the flavors of the season front and center. This Pumpkin Spice Cutouts Recipe is one of those timeless treats you’ll find yourself coming back to year after year. Cozy, flavorful, and irresistibly cute, these cookies are sure to brighten any afternoon snack or festive celebration. Give them a try—you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed fall without them!