Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that perfectly captures the essence of autumn, these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are an absolute must-make. Soft and tender with just the right touch of spice, they bring together the comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, all wrapped up in a sweet, sugar-kissed bite. Whether you’re baking for a special fall gathering or simply craving a warm, nostalgic cookie, these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies deliver that perfect balance of flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together here to create the magic in these cookies. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering the fluffy texture, rich taste, and vibrant color that makes Pumpkin Sugar Cookies so irresistible.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• 1 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps give the cookies their classic crisp edges when baked.
• ½ cup pumpkin purée: The star ingredient that infuses moisture, flavor, and beautiful autumnal color.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds structure to the dough.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and deepens the flavor profile.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cookies rise perfectly without too much puff.
• ½ tsp baking soda: Adds lift and balances acidity from the pumpkin.
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings that warm, classic fall spice that makes these cookies so inviting.
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg: Compliments the cinnamon with a subtle nutty warmth.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the dough structure and chewiness.
• Extra sugar for rolling: Creates a delightful crunchy coating that adds texture and sparkle.

How to Make Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

Begin by beating together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step ensures your cookies have a tender texture and just the right amount of sweetness. It may take about 3-5 minutes with a mixer, but patience here pays off with every bite.

Step 2: Add Pumpkin, Egg, and Vanilla

Next, stir in the pumpkin purée, egg, and vanilla extract. The pumpkin adds moisture and that unmistakable flavor, while the egg binds the dough, and vanilla rounds out the sweetness, making the cookies utterly irresistible.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing the spices evenly throughout the flour ensures every cookie is perfectly spiced and flavorful.

Step 4: Make the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough should be tender but easy to roll. If it feels too sticky, a quick chill in the fridge for 10 minutes can make rolling simpler.

Step 5: Shape and Coat

Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls, then coat each in extra sugar. This sugar layer adds a pleasant crunch and a sparkling finish once baked. Place them spaced apart on a baking sheet and gently flatten each ball slightly with your palm or the bottom of a glass.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them—edges should be set but the centers remain soft. Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them set perfectly without breaking.

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate makes an elegant touch. For an extra seasonal twist, try decorating with a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans or a pinch of pumpkin pie spice to enhance that autumn feel.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of chai tea, pumpkin spice latte, or a creamy hot chocolate. The combination of warm spices and cold or hot beverages turns dessert time into a cozy experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack them with layers of spiced whipped cream or sandwich them with a cinnamon cream cheese filling to transform them into a show-stopping treat. You can also shape them with mini cookie cutters before baking to add festive shapes for seasonal celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Pumpkin Sugar Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and preserve their sugar-coated crunch.

Freezing

You can freeze baked cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To maintain freshness, add a slice of bread in the container to absorb moisture. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked warmth, pop your cookies in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes or microwave briefly for about 10 seconds. This softens the cookie and reinvigorates the pumpkin spice aroma beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin purée for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin purée works perfectly and provides that consistent texture and flavor needed for these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

What if I don’t have nutmeg on hand?

You can omit the nutmeg or substitute with a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to maintain that warm spice note.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture may vary slightly but the flavor will still shine.

Why do my cookies spread too much?

If your cookies spread excessively, make sure your butter isn’t too soft or melted. Chilling the dough before baking can also help maintain shape.

How long will these cookies stay soft?

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies stay soft and tender for about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a homemade batch of Pumpkin Sugar Cookies that brings autumn warmth right into your kitchen. With their soft texture, cozy spices, and sweet sugar coating, these cookies are guaranteed to become a new favorite you’ll want to bake again and again. Grab your ingredients, invite a friend over, and enjoy the magic of baking these delightful treats together!

Print