Pumpkin Cookies

There’s something utterly heartwarming about baking during the crisp days of fall. When I think of the season, the first thing that comes to mind is the smell of freshly baked treats wafting through my home. This brings me to one of my absolute favorites: Pumpkin Cookies. The moment you take a bite, you’re met with a delightful blend of flavors that just scream comfort. I remember the first time I made these cookies; I was trying to get into the spirit of Halloween, and these were the perfect treat to share with friends and family.

As I whisked the batter together, the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin filled my kitchen, and I can still picture my friends’ smiles as they took their first bites. Each cookie is soft, chewy, and topped with a creamy frosting that elevates them from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether it’s for a gathering or just to enjoy on a cozy afternoon, these cookies have a way of bringing people together. So, let’s dive into how you can create your own batch of Pumpkin Cookies to enjoy this fall!

Ingredient List for Pumpkin Cookies

When it comes to baking Pumpkin Cookies, the ingredients play a pivotal role in creating that warm, cozy flavor. Each component enhances the overall taste and texture, ensuring the cookies are not just tasty but also mouthwatering. The combination of canned pumpkin, flour, and warming spices creates a perfect balance that highlights the essence of the fall season.

• 1 cup granulated sugar – The sweet base of the cookies that helps them achieve the perfect texture.
• 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil – Adds moisture and keeps the cookies soft.
• 1 teaspoon milk – A small amount to help bring the dough together.
• 1 large egg – Acts as a binding agent and adds richness to the cookies.
• 1 cup canned pumpkin – The star ingredient that gives these cookies their signature flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla – Enhances the overall sweetness and flavor profile.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The main structure of the cookies.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – A warm spice that adds a touch of fall.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Works with the acidity in the pumpkin to provide leavening.
• 3 tablespoons butter – Adds a rich flavor to the frosting.
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream – Gives the frosting a creamy texture.
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar – Adds depth and flavor to the frosting.
• Pinch of salt – Enhances the sweetness of the frosting.
• 2 cups powdered sugar – The base for the frosting that provides sweetness and thickness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla – For flavoring the frosting and making it extra delicious.

Recipe Directions for Pumpkin Cookies

Creating Pumpkin Cookies is an enjoyable process, and I can assure you that it’s worth every step. Let’s dive into the baking adventure!

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and rise perfectly. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients to make the process smoother.
2. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the granulated sugar and vegetable oil until the mixture is well combined and slightly fluffy. This should take about two minutes. The sugar and oil create a fantastic base.
3. Add in the egg, milk, canned pumpkin, and vanilla to the bowl. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated. You’ll notice a beautiful orange color starting to form – that’s the pumpkin working its magic!
4. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Mixing the dry ingredients beforehand helps ensure they are evenly distributed in your cookie dough.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your cookies to remain tender and soft.
6. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto a greased cookie sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
7. Bake in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to be set but the centers to remain soft. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
8. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
9. While the cookies are cooling, let’s prepare the frosting. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, heavy whipping cream, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
10. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and 1 cup of powdered sugar. Allow the frosting to cool to room temperature.
11. After your cookies have cooled completely, spread the frosting on each cookie. Depending on your preference, you may not need the entire additional cup of powdered sugar; just add until you reach your desired frosting consistency.
12. Finally, serve your delicious Pumpkin Cookies to friends and family. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

Tips and Variations

Baking is all about creativity, and there are plenty of ways to make your Pumpkin Cookies even more delightful. Here are some tips and variations to consider:

• Storage: To keep cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can last for a week at room temperature.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to three months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag.
• Pairing: Serve with a cup of warm apple cider or hot chocolate for a perfect fall treat.
• Mix-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough for extra texture and flavor.
• Frosting Alternatives: If you prefer, try cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist!
• Spice Variations: Experiment with adding nutmeg or ginger for a more complex spice profile.
• Serving Suggestions: These cookies make great gifts! Package them in a lovely box or tin for friends and family.

Perfect Matches for Pumpkin Cookies

When it comes to serving Pumpkin Cookies, there are so many fun and festive options. Here are some ideas for pairings and occasions:

• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The flavors meld beautifully!
• Holiday Gatherings: Perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dinners, or any fall celebration!
• Picnic Treat: Take these cookies along for a picnic! They’re easy to transport and sure to be a hit.
• Seasonal Desserts: Pair with other fall desserts, like apple pie or pecan pie, for an indulgent dessert table.
• Family Fun: Host a baking day with friends or family! Everyone can get involved in making these delicious cookies together.
• Movie Night: Serve them up during a cozy movie night in, paired with some hot chocolate or cider.
• Gift Giving: Package them in a decorative box as gifts for neighbors or friends, spreading the fall joy!

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Pumpkin Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall with their warm spices and soft texture. I encourage you to give them a try, as they are sure to bring joy to your gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Share them with friends and family, and let the sweet aroma fill your kitchen. Happy baking!

Pumpkin Cookies

The ultimate comfort food, these Pumpkin Cookies are soft, chewy, and topped with luscious caramel frosting. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home, they’ll satisfy your sweet tooth. Try making them tonight for a delightful treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 37 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil
• 1 teaspoon milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup canned pumpkin
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• pinch salt
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Equipment

• Hand Mixer

Method

 

1. With an electric mixer, beat together granulated sugar and vegetable oil.
2. Add egg, milk, canned pumpkin, and vanilla and blend well.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the dry ingredients. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix, just until incorporated.
4. Drop batter by spoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees F for 10-12 minutes. Allow to cool before frosting.
5. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, heavy whipping cream, brown sugar, and salt, and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
6. Remove from the heat and stir in vanilla and 1 cup powdered sugar. Let the frosting cool to room temperature and then stir in enough additional powdered sugar to make a good frosting consistency (you may not use the whole extra cup).
7. Spread the frosting over the cooled cookies.

Notes

• Tip 1: To keep cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can last for a week at room temperature.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to three months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag.
• Tip 3: Serve these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The flavors meld beautifully!
• Tip 4: Consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
• Tip 5: These cookies make great gifts! Package them in a lovely box or tin for friends and family.

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Meet Maya Warren

Our main recipe developer and resident forager. My passion is cooking with what the season gives us, whether it’s wild mushrooms from the woods or fresh berries from the garden. I work with Chloe to create our main dishes and with Tessa on new flavor ideas for her bakes. I love the challenge of turning a fresh, raw ingredient into something magical.