Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

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 a cozy night in, this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe will become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The spices and pumpkin puree create a warm, inviting taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Chewy Texture: Chilling the dough results in soft yet chewy cookies that are sure to please.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can master this recipe.
• Versatile Option: These cookies make a great treat for various occasions, from casual snacks to festive celebrations.
• Customizable: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist!

Tools and Preparation

To create these delightful cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Gather them before starting your baking adventure to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Silicone or parchment paper baking sheets
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool helps to mix ingredients quickly and evenly, ensuring a smooth cookie dough.
• Cookie scoop: Using a scoop ensures uniform cookie sizes, which helps them bake evenly.
• Cooling rack: Allowing cookies to cool on a rack prevents sogginess and keeps them crispy on the outside.

Ingredients

To make these delicious pumpkin sugar cookies, gather the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 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

Wet Ingredients

• 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 in a few paper towels on a plate.
2. Fold the paper towels over the puree so it’s completely enclosed.
3. Allow excess moisture to soak into the paper towels for a few minutes.

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: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer for 1–2 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree

Add in the prepared pumpkin puree:
1. Beat again until well combined.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the dry ingredients:
1. Mix on low speed or by hand with a spatula until just combined.
2. The dough will be thick.

Step 7: Form Cookie Balls

Use a cookie scoop to form balls:
1. Roll between your hands until smooth.
2. Place dough balls on a silicone or parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF while you prepare to bake.

Step 9: Roll in Sugar

Place 1/4 cup of sugar in a bowl for rolling:
1. Roll each chilled ball in sugar before placing them on a silicone-lined baking sheet.
2. Space cookies about 2 inches apart; you can fit about 8 per sheet.

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Bake for 15–19 minutes or until edges are faintly golden:
1. Keep remaining dough balls refrigerated while baking in batches.
2. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Pumpkin Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

These delightful pumpkin sugar cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a cozy gathering or a simple treat at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a perfect pick-me-up.
• Tea: A soothing herbal tea complements the spices in the cookies beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy a rich hot chocolate alongside these cookies for a sweet indulgence.

As Dessert Toppings

• Ice Cream: Crumble the cookies over vanilla or pumpkin-flavored ice cream for added texture and flavor.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer crumbled cookies with yogurt and fruit for a delicious parfait.

For Celebrations

• Cookie Platter: Arrange the cookies on a festive platter with other baked goods for parties or gatherings.
• Gift Bags: Package them in cute bags as homemade gifts during the holiday season.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

To achieve the best results with your pumpkin sugar cookies, consider these helpful tips. Proper techniques can elevate your baking game!

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps achieve that chewy texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender; overmixing can make them tough.
• Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your spices are fresh for maximum flavor impact. Stale spices can dull the taste.
• Measure Pumpkin Accurately: Use the paper towel method to remove excess moisture from pumpkin puree, ensuring your dough isn’t too wet.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin sugar cookies can create an enjoyable treat experience. Here are some great options that complement their flavors well.

1. Spiced Chai Latte: Warm and aromatic, this drink enhances the spices found in the cookies.
2. Caramel Apple Slices: Sweet and crunchy apple slices drizzled with caramel make for a delightful contrast.
3. Pecan Pie Bites: Mini pecan pies offer a different texture while maintaining that fall flavor theme.
4. Maple Glazed Nuts: A mix of nuts coated in maple syrup brings sweetness and crunch alongside your cookies.
5. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses balances out the sweetness of the cookies effectively.
6. Fruit Salad: Fresh seasonal fruits provide a refreshing counterpart to these rich treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pumpkin sugar cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Using Too Much Flour: Adding too much flour can make your cookies dry and crumbly. Measure precisely or use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: Chilling the dough helps develop flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for chewy cookies!
• Not Measuring Pumpkin Puree Correctly: Incorrect amounts of pumpkin can change the texture. Use the paper towel method to remove excess moisture.
• Overbaking the Cookies: Baking for too long leads to hard cookies. Keep an eye on them, and take them out when they’re just set.
• Skipping Ingredient Temperature Checks: Using cold butter or eggs can affect mixing. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Layer cookies between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months before baking.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for about 2 minutes, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the pumpkin sugar cookies recipe that may help clarify any doubts.

What is the best way to store pumpkin sugar cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate if you prefer a longer shelf life.

Can I freeze pumpkin sugar cookies?

Yes! You can freeze both baked cookies and unbaked dough balls. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

How do I make gluten-free pumpkin sugar cookies?

To make gluten-free versions, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free certified.

What can I add to my pumpkin sugar cookies recipe?

You can customize by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits like cranberries for added flavor and texture.

Why is my pumpkin cookie batter too runny?

If your batter is runny, it may be due to excess moisture in the pumpkin puree. Use the paper towel method to drain extra liquid before mixing.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin sugar cookies are not only delightful but also versatile! Feel free to customize them with chocolate chips or nuts. They’re perfect for gatherings or just enjoying at home. Try this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe and discover why they’re so loved!