Introduction and Overview
What are Pumpkin Pie Cookies?
Pumpkin Pie Cookies are a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts: the traditional pumpkin pie and a soft, chewy cookie. These cookies capture the warm, spiced flavors of a classic pumpkin pie in a portable, bite-sized form. The cookie base is soft and chewy, while the filling is rich and creamy, much like the filling of a pumpkin pie. Finished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream, these cookies are the perfect fall treat, ideal for cozy gatherings, Thanksgiving celebrations, or simply enjoying with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
A Portable Twist on a Fall Classic
These cookies take all the best parts of pumpkin pie—its spiced filling and buttery crust—and transform them into a delicious handheld treat. Whether you’re a fan of traditional pumpkin pie or just love fall flavors, these cookies are sure to satisfy your autumn dessert cravings.
Ingredients and Nutritional Benefits
Main Ingredients
Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin puree is the star of the recipe, giving the cookies their signature flavor. It’s also packed with vitamins and nutrients, including vitamin A and fiber.
Pumpkin Pie Spice
Pumpkin pie spice is a blend of warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. It adds a cozy, spiced flavor to the cookies that’s synonymous with fall.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is used in some variations of pumpkin pie cookies for the filling, providing a rich, creamy contrast to the spiced cookie base.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar adds moisture and a caramel-like sweetness to the cookies, enhancing the warm flavors of the pumpkin and spices.
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour provides structure to the cookies, helping them hold their shape while keeping them soft and chewy.
Nutritional Benefits
Pumpkin: High in Vitamins and Fiber
Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune function and skin health. It’s also high in fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel fuller longer.
Cinnamon: Packed with Antioxidants
Cinnamon, a key component of pumpkin pie spice, is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Preparation and Variations
Basic Recipe
Ingredients List
To make Pumpkin Pie Cookies, you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 cup cream cheese frosting (optional for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Mix in the canned pumpkin, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is well incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. These spices will give the cookies their classic pumpkin pie flavor.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped pecans if desired.
- Scoop and Bake:
- Drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly browned and the centers are set.
- Cool and Frost:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, spread or pipe cream cheese frosting on each cookie before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 29 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories per Serving: 150 kcal per cookie
Recipe Variations
Pumpkin Pie Thumbprint Cookies
For a thumbprint version, make small indentations in the center of each cookie before baking and fill them with a spoonful of pumpkin pie filling or cream cheese frosting. Bake as directed.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This allows the cookies to have the right texture while being gluten-free.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
For an extra touch of sweetness, stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips or white chocolate chips to the dough. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and spice flavors.
Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies
To make these cookies vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Use dairy-free cream cheese if making the filling.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serving Suggestions
With a Cup of Coffee or Tea
These cookies pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea, especially flavors like chai or cinnamon tea that complement the spices in the cookies.
As a Fall Dessert
Serve these cookies as part of your Thanksgiving dessert spread or at any fall gathering. They’re easy to transport and a hit with guests.
With a Dollop of Whipped Cream
For a more indulgent treat, serve the cookies with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting on top. It adds a little extra sweetness and decadence.
Pairing Ideas
With Hot Chocolate
The rich, warm flavors of the cookies pair beautifully with a cup of creamy hot chocolate. This makes for a cozy, indulgent pairing on chilly days.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
Serve the cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts with the spiced, chewy cookies for a delicious combination.
With Apple Cider
For a true fall-inspired treat, pair the cookies with warm apple cider. The sweet and tart flavors of the cider complement the spiced pumpkin cookies perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. You can also bake the cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they are filled with cream cheese, refrigerate them to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze pumpkin pie cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the dough before baking or freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. If freezing the dough, roll it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Thaw the dough before baking.
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade pumpkin puree, just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid adding too much moisture to the dough.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts make a great addition to these cookies, adding texture and a nutty flavor. You can also add dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Pie Cookies combine the best elements of a classic pumpkin pie and soft, chewy cookies. With their warm spices, rich pumpkin flavor, and optional cream cheese filling, these cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves fall desserts. Whether served at a holiday gathering, enjoyed with a warm drink, or savored as a snack, these cookies bring the comforting flavors of autumn into every bite.