Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

These soft and chewy Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are the perfect treat for fall. With spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, they capture the essence of the season. They’re easy to make and a delightful addition to any gathering or cozy night in with your favorite warm drink.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These cookies require simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making them perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The warm spices create a comforting taste that is synonymous with autumn, making these cookies a seasonal favorite.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings, after-school snacks, or as a sweet gift for friends and family.
• Soft and Chewy: The texture of these cookies is perfectly soft and chewy, ensuring each bite is satisfying.
• Great for Sharing: With 24 cookies in this recipe, there’s plenty to share with loved ones or to enjoy throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure a fun baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (or whisk)
• Measuring cups
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl helps combine ingredients effectively without spills.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and energy when creaming butter and sugar to achieve that fluffy texture.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to successful baking; they ensure you follow the recipe correctly.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even baking for perfectly golden cookies.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking while they bake.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, leading to a nice texture in your cookies.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla Extract

Beat in one large egg along with one teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully combined. This adds moisture and flavor to your cookie dough.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together one and a half cups of all-purpose flour, half a teaspoon of baking soda, and half a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. This step ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 6: Form Cookie Dough Balls

Roll sections of dough into balls about one inch in size. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with enough space between each ball for spreading during baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid overbaking.

Step 8: Cool Down

Remove from oven and cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely before serving or storing.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Serving Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies can elevate your dessert experience, especially during the fall season. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy these cookies.

Pair with Warm Beverages

• Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee complement the sweet spices in the cookies.
• Tea: A cup of chai or spiced tea enhances the autumnal vibe and balances the sweetness.
• Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a creamy mug of hot chocolate for a comforting treat alongside your cookies.

Create a Cookie Sandwich

• Frosting Filling: Spread some cream cheese or vanilla frosting between two cookies for an extra indulgent dessert.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use pumpkin or cinnamon ice cream as a filling for a delightful twist on classic ice cream sandwiches.

Garnish with Toppings

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some crushed pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Perfecting your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out just right.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies that hold their shape.
• Check Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer can help ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies can pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to enhance your dessert table.

1. Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp topped with oats complements the spices in the cookies beautifully.
2. Pumpkin Soup: This creamy dish mirrors pumpkin flavors, creating a cohesive dining experience.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can balance the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
4. Caramel Dip: Serve with sliced apples or pretzels for dipping, adding a sweet contrast to their spice.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits lightens up your dessert table while enhancing flavors.
6. Cinnamon Roll Casserole: This warm dish brings additional cinnamon notes, making it an excellent pairing option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies can be delightful, but there are a few common pitfalls. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can create tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft and chewy result.
• Not Measuring Flour Accurately: Too much flour can make cookies dry. Use a kitchen scale or spoon flour into measuring cups and level off for accuracy.
• Skipping Parchment Paper: Baking directly on the sheet can lead to sticking. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Letting cookies cool on the baking sheet for too long may cause them to become overcooked. Transfer them to a wire rack after a few minutes to maintain softness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Separate layers with parchment paper for easy access.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 10-second intervals until just warm; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, cover with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies:

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or whole wheat flour, but the texture may vary slightly.

How do I make these cookies more festive?

Consider adding chopped nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

You can reduce sugar slightly, but cutting it too much will impact the cookie’s texture and sweetness.

How long do these cookies last?

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. They’re perfect as a fall treat or any time you crave a hint of spice. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins or adjusting spices. Enjoy baking!