Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Find out why my readers are calling these pumpkin sugar cookies the best cookie they’ve ever made! This Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is the ultimate chewy pumpkin cookie—perfectly balanced, not too cakey or dense, and bursting with pumpkin flavor. Ideal for gatherings, cozy evenings, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these cookies will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Chewy Texture: These cookies offer a delightful chewiness that makes each bite enjoyable.
• Bursting with Flavor: Packed with warm spices and pumpkin, they’re perfect for fall and winter festivities.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll whip these up in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Great for sharing at parties, holiday gatherings, or even as a special snack at home.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone mats

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures your butter and sugars are combined smoothly for a fluffy texture.
• Cookie scoop: Helps create uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
• Parchment paper or silicone mats: Prevents sticking, making clean-up effortless.

Ingredients

For this delicious Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe, you will need:

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 (prepared using the paper towel method)

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 the 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 a few minutes for excess moisture to soak into the paper towels.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small mixing bowl:
1. Combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
2. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

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

Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree

Add in the prepared pumpkin puree:
1. Beat again to combine thoroughly.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

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

Step 7: Form Cookie Balls

Use a cookie scoop to form balls:
1. Roll between your hands into balls about 3 tablespoons in size.
2. Place them on a silicone or parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

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

Step 9: Roll in Sugar and Bake

Prepare for baking:
1. Place 1/4 cup of sugar in a bowl for rolling each cookie ball.
2. Roll each ball in sugar before placing them on the lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart (you can fit about 8 per sheet).
3. Bake for 15-19 minutes or until edges are faintly golden.

Step 10: Cool Cookies

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

Enjoy your freshly baked Pumpkin Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Serving pumpkin sugar cookies can be as delightful as baking them. These cookies are versatile and pair well with various accompaniments. Here are some ideas to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Cup of Tea

• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea complements the spices in the cookies.
• Chai Latte: The creamy texture and spiced flavor of chai bring out the best in pumpkin sugar cookies.

As a Dessert Platter

• Assorted Cookies: Pair these cookies with other flavors like chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin for a diverse dessert table.
• Fresh Fruit: Serve with apple slices or berries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.

On a Festive Tray

• Seasonal Decor: Arrange your pumpkin sugar cookies on a decorative platter with autumn leaves or mini pumpkins for a festive touch.
• Drizzled Chocolate: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds elegance and richness to your cookie presentation.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Perfecting your pumpkin sugar cookies is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out just right.

• Chill the Dough: Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape and enhances chewiness.
• Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your spices are fresh for maximum flavor. Old spices can diminish the taste of your cookies.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately. Too much flour can make cookies dry.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Remove them when the edges are slightly golden for that perfect chewy texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Pairing side dishes with pumpkin sugar cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delicious contrast to the spice-filled cookie.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for added sweetness and richness.
3. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a soft texture that complements the cookie’s chewiness.
4. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses, such as brie or gouda, balances the sweetness perfectly.
5. Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enjoying these cookies with a pumpkin spice latte will enhance their seasonal flavor profile.
6. Hot Cocoa: Pairing with rich hot cocoa creates a comforting treat, perfect for chilly days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin sugar cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls that you should watch out for.

• Skipping the Dough Chilling: Not chilling the dough can lead to flat cookies. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Neglecting Pumpkin Moisture: Using wet pumpkin puree can result in soggy cookies. Always remove excess moisture from pumpkin puree using the paper towel method.
• Incorrect Measurement of Flour: Measuring flour inaccurately can affect dough consistency. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to maintain a soft and chewy texture.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Baking the cookies for too long can make them hard. Keep an eye on them and remove them when the edges are lightly golden.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid for about 2-3 minutes to warm them through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe that might help you get the best results.

Can I use gluten-free flour for this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s suitable for baking.

How do I store leftover pumpkin sugar cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for up to one week.

What is the best way to soften butter quickly?

To quickly soften butter, cut it into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to enhance your pumpkin sugar cookies with chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin sugar cookies are truly irresistible – soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor! They are perfect for any occasion and are easily customizable. Whether you add spices or mix-ins like chocolate chips, these cookies will surely delight everyone who tries them. Don’t hesitate; give this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe a try today!