Autumn Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Fall just needs pumpkin spice, right? These Autumn Pumpkin Spice Cookies make the whole kitchen smell like cozy. One bite and yep, it feels like a sweater hug.

They’re soft, sweet, and full of warm spice. I made a batch last weekend, and they vanished fast. Like… gone before they even cooled.

If you want that classic fall flavor in a super easy cookie, this is it. Let’s bake some and feel all the autumn vibes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Autumn-Inspired: These cookies capture the essence of fall with every bite, thanks to the rich, spicy flavors of pumpkin and warm spices.
• Soft and Chewy: Unlike crisp cookies, these pumpkin spice cookies are soft, chewy, and almost cake-like.
• Versatile Ingredients: With optional add-ins like white chocolate chips and pecans, you can customize these cookies to suit your tastes.
• Quick to Make: You can have these cookies baked and ready in under an hour.
• Perfect for Sharing: A great recipe for cookie exchanges, parties, or holiday gatherings.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the tools you’ll need to get started:

• Mixing bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Electric mixer or whisk: To mix everything smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key when baking.
• Parchment paper: For easy cookie removal and cleanup.
• Baking sheets: For baking the cookies to perfection.
• Spatula or cookie scoop: To shape the dough into even portions.
• Wire rack: To cool the cookies evenly and prevent sogginess.

Ingredients

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to create the most delicious pumpkin spice cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The base of the cookie dough. Make sure your butter is soft, not melted, to ensure the proper texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the structure of the cookies.
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Brown sugar brings moisture and an extra depth of flavor to the cookies.
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show, giving the cookies their moist texture and rich flavor.
• 1 large egg: Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile, balancing the spices.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough, ensuring the cookies hold their shape.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds a bit of lift for a lighter cookie texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Classic pumpkin spice flavor—warm and comforting.
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and an earthy warmth.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Gives the cookies a slight zing and complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: A subtle but potent spice that rounds out the flavor profile.
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional): For added texture and a nutty crunch.
• 1 cup white chocolate chips (optional): For a creamy contrast to the spiced dough.

Variations for Autumn Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Feel free to get creative with your Autumn Pumpkin Spice Cookies! Here are a few ideas to customize the recipe to your liking:

• Add Dried Cranberries or Raisins: For a bit of tartness and chewiness to complement the sweetness of the cookie.
• Swap Pecans for Walnuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts are a great alternative.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free white chocolate chips.
• Use Dark Chocolate Chips: If you prefer a richer, less sweet option, dark chocolate chips are a great choice.
• Add a Dash of Maple Syrup: For an extra autumn touch, a tablespoon of pure maple syrup can enhance the flavor.
• Try a Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use a non-dairy butter alternative for a vegan-friendly treat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or whisk to beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until everything is well incorporated.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. The spices in this step are key to giving the cookies their signature autumn flavor. Once the dry ingredients are mixed, gradually add them to the wet ingredients in batches. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

4. Add the Optional Mix-ins

If you’re adding chopped pecans and white chocolate chips, fold them into the dough with a spatula. These additions will give the cookies an extra crunch and creamy sweetness.

5. Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading. If desired, you can lightly press the tops of the dough balls to flatten them slightly.

6. Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them.

7. Cool the Cookies

Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them maintain their shape and prevent them from falling apart.

How to Serve Autumn Pumpkin Spice Cookies

These cookies are versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• With a Hot Drink: Pair these cookies with a hot drink, such as pumpkin spice latte, hot chocolate, or apple cider, to really embrace the fall vibes.
• For Dessert: These cookies make a perfect dessert after a hearty autumn meal. Try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• As a Gift: Package them up in a cute tin or box for a homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
• Cookie Sandwiches: For an extra special treat, make cookie sandwiches by spreading a little cream cheese frosting or cinnamon buttercream between two cookies.

Storing Autumn Pumpkin Spice Cookies

• At Room Temperature: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They’ll stay soft and chewy, and the flavors will continue to meld together.
• In the Freezer: These cookies freeze really well! To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
• Cookie Dough: You can also freeze the cookie dough! Roll the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and once solid, store them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, place the dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Cookie
Calories	180
Total Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	5g
Cholesterol	25mg
Sodium	60mg
Total Carbohydrates	26g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	16g
Protein	2g

(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Conclusion

Autumn Pumpkin Spice Cookies are the perfect treat for the fall season. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones, serving them at a gathering, or enjoying them with your favorite hot beverage, these cookies are sure to please. Soft, chewy, and packed with pumpkin and spice, they’re an essential addition to your autumn baking repertoire. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a batch of homemade pumpkin spice cookies in no time. Happy baking!