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 holidays, gatherings, or a sweet treat any time of year, this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: These cookies are infused with warm spices and rich pumpkin, creating a delightful taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect Texture: The chewy consistency strikes a balance between soft and firm, making each bite irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up successfully.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as an everyday snack or serve them at parties and holidays; they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Chill Time Benefits: The chilling step enhances the flavor and texture, ensuring the perfect bake every time.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort by quickly combining ingredients until smooth.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniformity in cookie size for even baking and a professional look.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy, ensuring your cookies come out perfectly.

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Ingredients

To create these fantastic pumpkin sugar cookies, you’ll need:

For the Cookies

• 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:
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. The excess moisture will soak into the paper towels within a few minutes.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small mixing bowl:
* Combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
* Set aside for later use.

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 to the butter mixture:
* Beat again until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the dry ingredients:
* Mix on low speed or by hand with a spatula until just combined; expect thick dough consistency.

Step 7: Shape Dough Balls

Use a cookie scoop to form balls:
* Roll between your hands; aim for about 3 tablespoons per ball.
* Place dough balls on a silicone or parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF:
* Place 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl for rolling the cookies.

Step 9: Roll Cookies in Sugar

Roll each ball in sugar before placing them on another lined baking sheet:
* Space them about 2 inches apart; typically fit around 8 cookies per sheet.

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Bake for about 15-19 minutes:
* Look for faint golden edges as an indicator they’re done.

Step 11: Cool Completely

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes:
* Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these delightful cookies fresh from your kitchen!

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Serving pumpkin sugar cookies is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. These cookies are perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply enjoying at home with a warm beverage.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• A warm cup of coffee complements the spices in the cookies beautifully.
• Herbal teas offer a soothing balance to the sweetness of the cookies.

Add Ice Cream

• Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream pairs perfectly for a rich dessert treat.
• Try serving warm cookies with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent experience.

Create a Cookie Platter

• Include a variety of cookies alongside pumpkin sugar cookies for a colorful display.
• Add fruits and nuts to enhance flavors and textures on the platter.

Drizzle with Icing

• A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk enhances sweetness.
• Consider adding spices to the icing for an extra flavor dimension.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Achieving the perfect pumpkin sugar cookie involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your baking game.

• Chill Your Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps maintain its shape while baking, resulting in chewy cookies.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies caused by too much flour.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will give your cookies an aromatic boost compared to older ones.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly golden around the edges for optimal texture.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

These pumpkin sugar cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Consider these options for a balanced spread.

1. Chai Latte – This spiced tea drink brings warmth and complements the flavors of pumpkin.
2. Apple Cider – Serve chilled or warmed; it provides a fruity contrast to sweet cookies.
3. Cheese Board – A selection of cheeses balances sweetness and offers savory notes alongside your cookies.
4. Fruit Salad – Fresh fruit adds brightness and freshness, making it a light addition to dessert time.
5. Roasted Nuts – Seasoned nuts provide crunch and saltiness, which pairs nicely with sweet treats.
6. Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberries – These add a decadent touch that contrasts beautifully with soft pumpkin flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pumpkin sugar cookies, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect Pumpkin Preparation: Failing to remove excess moisture from the pumpkin puree can lead to soggy cookies. Always use the paper towel method before mixing.

• Skipping the Chill Time: Not chilling the dough can result in flat cookies. Allow the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much after adding dry ingredients can make the cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.

• Not Measuring Flour Accurately: Using too much flour can lead to dense cookies. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for precise measurement.

• Inconsistent Cookie Sizes: Baking unevenly sized cookies can cause some to bake faster than others. Use a cookie scoop for uniformity.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Layer with parchment paper to keep them separate.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm on a skillet over low heat for a minute or so, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the pumpkin sugar cookies recipe:

Can I make these pumpkin sugar cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it has xanthan gum for structure.

How do I make pumpkin sugar cookies without eggs?

This recipe is already eggless! The pumpkin puree serves as a binding agent, keeping the cookies moist and chewy.

What can I add to enhance my pumpkin sugar cookies?

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

How long does it take to bake pumpkin sugar cookies?

The baking time is typically between 15-19 minutes, depending on your oven. Look for lightly golden edges.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin sugar cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins or spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect blend of flavors in every bite!