Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe
Find out why my readers are calling these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe the best cookie theyβve ever made! These cookies are the ultimate chewy pumpkin treat, perfect for any occasion. With a delightful balance of spices and the rich flavor of pumpkin, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy them for dessert, during festive gatherings, or just as a sweet pick-me-up!
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm spices and pumpkin creates a comforting taste that everyone loves.
- Chewy Texture: Chilling the dough ensures each cookie is perfectly chewyβnever cakey or dense.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started on this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugars thoroughly, ensuring a smooth cookie dough.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to measure dry ingredients separately from wet ones for better mixing.
- Baking sheets: Quality sheets help with even baking, preventing cookies from burning on the bottom.

Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll 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 β see note below)
How to Make Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare 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: Remove Excess Moisture from Pumpkin Puree
To remove excess moisture from pumpkin puree:
* Place the pumpkin puree in a few paper towels on a plate.
* Fold the paper towels over the puree so itβs completely enclosed.
* Allow excess moisture to soak into the paper towels within a few minutes.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl:
* Combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl:
* Beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer for 1β2 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree
Add in the prepared pumpkin puree, beating again to combine until smooth.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture
Gradually add in the mixed dry ingredients:
* Mix on low speed or by hand with a spatula until everything is well combined. The dough will be thick.
Step 7: Form Cookie Balls
Using a cookie scoop:
* Form balls of dough about 3 tablespoons each. Roll them between your hands.
* Place dough balls on a silicone or parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes.
Step 8: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350ΒΊF. Meanwhile, place 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl for rolling the cookies.
Step 9: Roll Cookies in Sugar
Roll each chilled ball in sugar:
* Place cookies at least 2 inches apart on a lined baking sheetβabout 8 cookies per sheet.
Step 10: Bake Cookies
Bake for 15β19 minutes or until edges have a faint golden color:
* Keep remaining dough balls refrigerated while baking in batches.
Step 11: Cool Down
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes, then move them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Sugar Cookies as they bring warmth and joy to your home!
How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe
Serving pumpkin sugar cookies can elevate your dessert experience. These delightful treats are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their flavor and presentation.
With a Warm Beverage
- Coffee or Latte: Pair your cookies with a cup of coffee or a creamy latte for a cozy treat.
- Tea: A spiced chai or herbal tea complements the warm spices in the cookies beautifully.
For Special Occasions
- Dessert Platter: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter alongside other fall-themed treats for a festive touch.
- Gift Boxes: Package cookies in cute boxes with ribbons as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
With Ice Cream
- Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream: Top your cookie with a scoop of pumpkin spice ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of classic vanilla ice cream balances the spices perfectly.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe
For those who want to elevate their baking game, here are some tips to ensure your pumpkin sugar cookies turn out perfectly every time.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps achieve that perfect chewy texture by solidifying the butter.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can make cookies dense.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter to soften at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Donβt Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should look slightly underbaked when you take them out for optimal chewiness.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences, adding more cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe
Pairing side dishes with pumpkin sugar cookies can create a delightful meal. Here are some tasty options to consider.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: A rich, tangy frosting that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of pumpkin cookies.
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle a maple glaze over your cookies for an added layer of flavor that complements pumpkin beautifully.
- Caramel Sauce: Serve warm caramel sauce on the side for dipping, enhancing the overall sweetness of the cookie.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cookie.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookie.
- Cheese Board: Create a cheese board with assorted cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits to serve alongside your cookies for variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making pumpkin sugar cookies, itβs easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.
- Incorrect measurement of flour β Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Always use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
- Skipping the chilling step β Chilling the dough is crucial for chewy cookies. Donβt rush this step; 30 minutes in the fridge makes a big difference!
- Overmixing the dough β Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
- Not using enough pumpkin puree β Insufficient pumpkin puree can result in bland cookies. Stick to the recommended amount for great flavor.
- Baking at the wrong temperature β Ensure your oven is preheated to 350ΒΊF for even baking. An oven thermometer can help check accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Freeze cookie dough balls before baking for up to 3 months.
- For baked cookies, freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Oven β Preheat to 350ΒΊF and warm cookies on a baking sheet for 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave β Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop β Use a skillet on low heat with a lid, warming cookies for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe that might help you out!
Can I make these pumpkin sugar cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works as a direct replacement.
What can I use instead of butter?
You can use coconut oil or vegan butter as an alternative if youβre looking for a dairy-free option.
How do I make these pumpkin sugar cookies more flavorful?
Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor. A dash of vanilla extract can also enhance the taste.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, add a little extra flour until it reaches the right consistency.
Final Thoughts
These pumpkin sugar cookies are wonderfully chewy and packed with flavor, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding spices or mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts! Give this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe a try, and enjoy the deliciousness!
Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe
Indulge in the ultimate fall treat with these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies. Bursting with the rich flavors of pumpkin and a delightful blend of warm spices, these chewy cookies are perfect for any occasionβbe it a festive gathering or a cozy evening at home. With their soft texture and sweet aroma, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Plus, this easy recipe requires minimal effort, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or pair them with your favorite warm beverage for a comforting experience.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 19 minutes
- Total Time: 49 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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.
- Remove excess moisture from pumpkin puree using paper towels.
- Mix flour, baking soda, spices, and salt in a bowl; set aside.
- Cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add pumpkin puree and combine well.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients until combined to form a thick dough.
- Roll dough into balls and refrigerate again for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350Β°F and roll cookie balls in sugar before placing on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15β19 minutes or until edges are golden; cool before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
