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 celebrations, or as an everyday treat, this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe will surely impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Chewy: These cookies strike the perfect balance between chewy and soft, ensuring every bite is delightful.
• Simple Ingredients: With easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip these up without any hassle.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights at home with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun baking project to do with kids that they’ll love both making and eating.
• Seasonal Flavor: Infused with warm spices and pumpkin, they capture the essence of fall in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delicious cookies, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Silicone or parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugars quickly for a fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining wet and dry ingredients separately before mixing them together.
• Cookie scoop: Helps ensure uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

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
• 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:
* Place the pumpkin puree in a few paper towels on a plate.
* Fold the paper towels over the puree so it’s completely enclosed.
* The excess moisture will 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 1-2 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree

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

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 7: Form Cookie Balls

Use a cookie scoop to form balls:
* Roll between your hands to shape them evenly.
* Place on a silicone or parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for another 30 minutes.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF.

Step 9: Roll in Sugar

Place 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl for rolling:
* Roll each ball in the sugar before placing them on a baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Bake for about:
* Bake for 15-19 minutes or until edges have a faint golden color. Keep remaining dough in fridge while baking in batches.

Step 11: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for about:
* Let cool for approximately 15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Pumpkin sugar cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a festive gathering or enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these cookies are sure to impress.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the cookies with the creaminess of milk.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon snack.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Serve alongside other fall-inspired treats like pecan pie or apple crisp for a seasonal dessert spread.

Topped with Cream Cheese Frosting

• For an extra indulgent treat, add a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie.

With Whipped Cream and Pumpkin Spice

• Create a delightful experience by adding whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice on the side for dipping.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Perfecting your pumpkin sugar cookies can elevate your baking game. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps achieve the chewy texture you desire.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon and level method to prevent dense cookies. Too much flour can alter the texture.

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor significantly, making your cookies aromatic and delicious.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be lightly golden around the edges but soft in the center.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor variety.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Pairing side dishes with pumpkin sugar cookies can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some suggestions that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Apple Cider: This sweet beverage brings out the autumn flavors in the cookies.

2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel over your cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture pairs well, creating a delicious contrast with the chewy cookie.

4. Candied Nuts: Crunchy and sweet, they add a delightful texture when enjoyed alongside your cookies.

5. Pumpkin Flavored Yogurt: A light and tangy option that echoes the pumpkin flavor without being too heavy.

6. Hot Chocolate: A rich drink that complements the spices in the cookies, making it perfect for chilly days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin sugar cookies is a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes ensures the best results.

• Not Chilling the Dough: Failing to chill the dough before baking can lead to cookies that spread too much and become flat. Always refrigerate for 30 minutes to achieve a chewy texture.
• Using Wet Pumpkin Puree: If you don’t remove excess moisture from the pumpkin puree, your cookies may turn out too wet. Use the paper towel method to absorb any extra liquid before mixing.
• Skipping the Sugar Coating: Omitting the rolling in sugar can result in cookies that lack sweetness and a nice finish. Make sure to roll each cookie ball in sugar for added flavor and texture.
• Overbaking: Baking cookies for too long can dry them out. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven once the edges are lightly golden.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cookie consistency. Always preheat your oven properly to maintain even baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Use parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes for optimal softness.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section answers some common queries about making pumpkin sugar cookies.

How can I make these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, but ensure it is pureed smoothly and excess moisture is removed similar to canned puree.

What is the best way to store Pumpkin Sugar Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

How long do these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies last?

They stay fresh in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature or three months when frozen.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! Customize your pumpkin sugar cookies by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin sugar cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with spices or mix-ins to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful treats with family and friends!