Name: Pumpkin Spice Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 115g unsalted butter, softened; 100g brown sugar; 50g granulated sugar; 120g pumpkin puree; 1 large egg yolk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 190g all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1/4 tsp salt; For rolling: 3 tbsp granulated sugar + 1/2 tsp cinnamon

These Pumpkin Spice Cookies are the essence of autumn baked into a soft, chewy treat. Imagine the cozy aroma of pumpkin pie wafting through your kitchen, captured in each cinnamon-sugar coated bite. Perfectly spiced with warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, they make the ultimate seasonal dessert or afternoon snack with a cup of coffee.

Made with real pumpkin puree, these cookies are moist and tender, yet slightly crisp on the edges. They are incredibly easy to make and require no chilling time, making them ideal for busy bakers who still want homemade goodness in under 30 minutes. These cookies are also freezer-friendly, so you can make a big batch and enjoy them all season long.

Full of cozy fall flavors
Soft and chewy texture with a crisp sugar crust
Easy to make with pantry staples
Freezer-friendly and great for gifting
Ready in under 30 minutes

What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Use?

Use pure canned pumpkin puree—not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices, which can throw off the flavor and texture of your cookies. Libby’s is a trusted brand, but any 100% pure pumpkin will do. If you prefer homemade, just make sure it’s thick and well-drained.

Ingredients for the Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Each ingredient in these cookies adds to their irresistible flavor and soft, chewy bite:

Pumpkin Puree: Brings moisture and rich autumn flavor. Use pure pumpkin, not pie mix.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps create that perfectly soft center.
Brown Sugar: Deepens the flavor with a caramel-like sweetness.
Granulated Sugar: Used both in the dough and for the sugary coating.
Egg Yolk: Helps bind the dough without making it cakey.
Vanilla Extract: Balances the spices and enhances the pumpkin flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure without making the cookies too dense.
Baking Soda: Ensures your cookies rise just right.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: The star of the show—a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.

How To Make the Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This builds the base of your cookie texture.

Step 2: Mix in the Wet Ingredients

Add in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined. It may look slightly curdled at first but will smooth out.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.

Step 4: Mix and Form Dough

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until a soft dough forms. It should be thick but not dry.

Step 5: Roll and Coat

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Roll each in a bowl of cinnamon sugar for that crisp coating.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place on a lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. They should look set at the edges but soft in the center.

How to Serve and Store Pumpkin Spice Cookies

These cookies are best served slightly warm with a tall glass of milk or a hot mug of chai tea. They make a comforting dessert or mid-morning snack. This recipe yields about 18 cookies, perfect for a family gathering or sharing at the office.

To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully—just thaw for 20 minutes before serving, or microwave for 10 seconds for that fresh-baked feel.

What to Serve With Pumpkin Spice Cookies?

Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew

A cool contrast to the spiced warmth of the cookies.

Spiced Chai Latte

The perfect partner for a cozy evening.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Sandwich a cookie between scoops for a fall-themed ice cream sandwich.

Apple Cider

A seasonal favorite that complements the pumpkin spice beautifully.

Whipped Maple Butter

Spread a little on top for an indulgent twist.

Toasted Pecans

Serve a handful on the side for added crunch.

Dark Chocolate Chunks

Melt a few over warm cookies for a touch of richness.

Caramel Drizzle

Perfect for dipping or drizzling over a cookie platter.

If you love these pumpkin spice cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other cozy bakes:

Whipped Shortbread Cookies Recipe: melt-in-your-mouth classic with a buttery finish.
Mini Pecan Tarts: bite-sized treats bursting with nutty caramel goodness.
Chocolate Raspberry Drip Cake: an elegant twist for chocolate lovers.
No Bake Preacher Cookies: quick, simple, and satisfying.
Magic Lemon Cobbler: bright and zesty for a citrusy break from spice.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add nuts or a chocolate twist? Maybe swapped in maple sugar? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Drop your questions too—let’s help each other bake better.

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