Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Find out why my readers are calling these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe 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, festive occasions, or a cozy night in, these cookies will impress everyone who tries them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Chewy Texture: These cookies have a delightful chewiness that makes each bite satisfying.
• Rich Pumpkin Flavor: Infused with pumpkin puree and warm spices, every cookie bursts with flavor.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, baking these cookies is a breeze.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday party or an afternoon snack.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste!

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures that the butter and sugars are well creamed together.
• Cookie scoop: Helps portion the dough evenly for uniform cookies.

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Ingredients

To make this flavorful Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe, gather the following 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:
* 3 cups 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

Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, beat:
* 1 cup unsalted butter
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup brown sugar

Use an electric mixer for 1-2 minutes until creamy.

Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree

Add in:
* 1/3 cup pumpkin puree

Beat again until combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the dry ingredients while mixing on low or by hand with a spatula until combined. The dough will be thick.

Step 7: Form Dough Balls

Use a cookie scoop to form balls. Roll between your hands. My dough balls were about 3 tbsp each. Place them 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 in Sugar and Bake

Roll each ball in sugar. Place them 2 inches apart on a silicone-lined baking sheet—about 8 cookies per sheet. Bake for 15-19 minutes or until edges have a faint golden color. Keep remaining dough balls in the fridge while baking.

Step 10: Cool Before Serving

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these delightful pumpkin sugar cookies fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

These delicious pumpkin sugar cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, serving them creatively can elevate your experience.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee – Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of coffee enhances the flavors, making it a delightful afternoon treat.
• Spiced Tea – A cup of spiced chai or herbal tea complements the pumpkin spices beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate – The sweetness of hot chocolate balances the spiced flavors of the cookies perfectly.

As Dessert

• With Ice Cream – Serve warm cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• On a Dessert Platter – Include these cookies with other sweet treats like brownies and fruit tarts for a varied dessert spread.

For Holiday Celebrations

• As Party Favors – Wrap individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbon for a lovely gift during gatherings.
• At Potlucks – Bring these cookies to share at potlucks; they’re sure to be a hit among guests!

How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Creating the ultimate pumpkin sugar cookies involves some simple techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Chill the Dough – Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes helps develop flavor and creates a chewy texture.
• Use Fresh Spices – Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor profile, making your cookies more aromatic and tasty.
• Measure Accurately – Use proper measuring techniques for flour and sugars to prevent dense or dry cookies.
• Don’t Overbake – Remove cookies from the oven when edges are lightly golden; they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
• Store Properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness and chewiness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

While pumpkin sugar cookies shine on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience.

1. Cheese Platter – A selection of soft cheeses pairs well with sweet desserts, offering a nice balance of flavors.
2. Fruit Salad – Fresh fruits add brightness and contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies; consider using seasonal fruits.
3. Nut Mix – A blend of roasted nuts provides crunch and is easy to prepare as a quick side dish.
4. Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and berries can serve as a refreshing accompaniment.
5. Caramel Sauce – Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each cookie adds an extra layer of sweetness that’s hard to resist.
6. Pumpkin Spice Latte – This drink mirrors the flavors in the cookie, creating a harmonious pairing that’s perfect for fall gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking pumpkin sugar cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Ignoring Dough Chilling: Skipping the chilling step can lead to overly flat cookies. Always chill the dough for 30 minutes to ensure perfect chewiness.
• Using Too Much Pumpkin: Adding too much pumpkin can make cookies soggy. Stick to the recommended amount of 1/3 cup for optimal texture.
• Not Measuring Flour Accurately: Incorrect flour measurement can alter cookie consistency. Use a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method for precision.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined for soft and tender cookies.
• Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 350ºF before baking.
• Skipping Sugar Coating: Not rolling cookie balls in sugar can affect sweetness and texture. Make sure to roll each ball in sugar for a delightful finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag after solidified.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and warm for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds, using a microwave-safe plate.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid for a few minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe that may help clarify any doubts.

Can I make these pumpkin sugar cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How do I store leftover cookie dough?

You can wrap the leftover cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

What can I use instead of unsalted butter?

You can use coconut oil or any plant-based butter alternative in this pumpkin sugar cookies recipe.

How long do these cookies last?

Pumpkin sugar cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored properly at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin sugar cookies are not only chewy and flavorful but also versatile enough to customize with your favorite spices or add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. Give this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe a try and enjoy delicious treats that will impress everyone!