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 fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat any day of the week, this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe will delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Delight: The blend of spices and pumpkin creates a rich, aromatic cookie that bursts with flavor.
• Chewy Texture: Chilling the dough ensures these cookies are perfectly chewy without being too dense.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies make a great dessert for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive parties.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this recipe.
• Kid-Friendly: These cookies are sure to please kids and adults alike, making them a hit at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious pumpkin sugar cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Quickly combines ingredients for a smooth dough, saving you time and effort.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking and perfect presentation.

Ingredients

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.

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
– 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:
* Place the pumpkin puree in a few paper towels on a plate.
* Fold the paper towels over the puree so it’s completely enclosed.
* The excess moisture will soak into the paper towels within a few minutes.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

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

Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree

Add in the prepared pumpkin puree:
* Beat again until fully combined with the butter-sugar mixture.

Step 6: Combine Wet and 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 of dough per ball.
* Place dough balls on a silicone or parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF while waiting for the dough to chill.

Step 9: Coat Cookies in Sugar

Place 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl for rolling:
* Roll each dough ball in sugar before placing them on a baking sheet.
* Space them about 2 inches apart – fit about 8 cookies per sheet.

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Bake for 15-19 minutes:
* Look for faint golden edges to indicate doneness.
* Keep remaining dough balls refrigerated while baking in batches.

Step 11: Cool Cookies

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

Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Sugar Cookies! Perfectly chewy and bursting with pumpkin flavor—these treats are sure to be loved by everyone who tries them.

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

These pumpkin sugar cookies are delicious on their own, but they can be enhanced with various pairings and serving suggestions. Here are some ideas to make your cookie experience even better.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: A fresh cup of coffee complements the flavors of pumpkin and spices beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: The richness of hot chocolate pairs well with the sweetness of the cookies.
• Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai enhance the flavors of these cookies.

As a Dessert Platter

• Fruit Compote: Serve these cookies alongside a homemade or store-bought fruit compote for a refreshing contrast.
• Ice Cream: Top with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the cookie’s chewiness.

For Festive Occasions

• Holiday Cookie Box: Include these cookies in a holiday cookie box along with other favorites for gifting.
• Party Dessert Table: Present them on a dessert table at parties for guests to enjoy as a sweet treat.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

To achieve the perfect pumpkin sugar cookies, follow these helpful tips that ensure great results every time.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes helps create chewy cookies by preventing them from spreading too much during baking.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon and level method for measuring flour to avoid dense cookies. Avoid packing it tightly into the measuring cup.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices can enhance flavor. If possible, grind your own spices just before using them.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. Remove them when the edges are golden for soft and chewy centers.
• Cool Properly: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring helps maintain their shape and moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

These pumpkin sugar cookies can be paired with various side dishes that complement their rich flavor. Consider trying one of these combinations for an enjoyable meal.

1. Apple Crisp – A warm apple crisp brings out seasonal flavors that pair nicely with pumpkin.
2. Pumpkin Spice Latte – This classic drink enhances the pumpkin flavor while offering warmth and comfort.
3. Pecan Pie – The nutty flavor of pecan pie balances the sweetness of sugar cookies perfectly.
4. Caramel Sauce – Drizzling warm caramel sauce over cookies adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
5. Cheesecake – A slice of cheesecake provides a creamy contrast to chewy pumpkin cookies.
6. Cinnamon Roll Casserole – This dish combines breakfast and dessert, making it a delightful side option with similar flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pumpkin sugar cookies, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can lead to flat cookies. Chilling helps them maintain their shape and texture.
• Using too much pumpkin puree: Excess moisture can make the cookies too cakey. Measure carefully and use the paper towel method to remove excess liquid.
• Overmixing the dough: This can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft texture.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Always preheat the oven. Baking at an incorrect temperature can alter the consistency of your cookies.
• Not rolling in sugar: This adds a sweet, crunchy exterior. Don’t skip this step if you want that delightful texture contrast!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat, turning frequently for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe.

Can I make these pumpkin sugar cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for delicious gluten-free pumpkin sugar cookies.

How do I achieve chewy pumpkin sugar cookies?

Chilling the dough is key! It helps create that chewy texture everyone loves in pumpkin sugar cookies.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your pumpkin sugar cookies by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or other mix-ins as desired.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will remain fresh for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are not only irresistibly soft and chewy but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins or spices. Try this recipe and enjoy delightful flavors that celebrate fall!