Pumpkin Spice Shortbread Cookies

These cookies are fall in every bite! Buttery, crumbly, and full of pumpkin spice. I took one bite and went “mmm!”

They melt in your mouth and taste like cozy hugs. The spice isn’t too strong—it’s just right. I love how easy they are to make too.

I made them on a rainy day, and they made everything better. Perfect with tea, cocoa, or just a big smile. Friends always ask me for these!

Let’s bake them together! You’re gonna love how they smell, taste, and feel. Grab your cozy sweater—it’s cookie time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Buttery shortbread with a crumbly, delicate texture.
• Rich, Spiced Flavor: A blend of warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves enhances every bite.
• Simple Ingredients: Only a handful of pantry staples needed.
• Perfect for Gifting: These cookies store well and make a wonderful homemade gift.
• No Eggs Required: A great egg-free cookie option for those with allergies.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutter (optional)
• Wire cooling rack

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious fall cookies:

• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Provides structure and stability.
• Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened) – Gives shortbread its classic rich texture.
• Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Adds sweetness and balances the spices.
• Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances all the flavors in the dough.
• Pumpkin Spice Powder (1 tsp) – The heart of the recipe, bringing cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves together.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds depth to the flavor.

Variations for Pumpkin Spice Shortbread Cookies

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the cookies for added indulgence.
• Pumpkin Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with a bit of pumpkin puree and milk for a delicious glaze.
• Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough.
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Roll the cookies in cinnamon sugar before baking for extra sweetness.
• Maple Infusion: Substitute vanilla extract with maple extract for a richer fall flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and pumpkin spice powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a dough forms.

3. Chill the Dough

Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to work with.

4. Roll and Cut

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness and use cookie cutters to shape the cookies as desired.

5. Bake the Cookies

Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Once completely cooled, serve the cookies as they are or decorate with your favorite toppings.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Shortbread Cookies

These cookies are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy them with a warm latte, chai tea, or hot chocolate.
• As a Dessert Base: Use them as a crust for pumpkin cheesecake or ice cream sandwiches.
• Holiday Gift: Pack them in decorative tins for a festive gift.
• With Ice Cream: Pair with vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Storing Pumpkin Spice Shortbread Cookies

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to two weeks in a sealed container.
• Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size	Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein
1 cookie	120	7g	12g	1g

Pumpkin Spice Shortbread Cookies FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but reduce the additional salt in the recipe to ¼ teaspoon.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month.

Can I add actual pumpkin to this recipe?

Since shortbread cookies rely on a low-moisture dough, adding pumpkin puree can alter the texture. Instead, try a pumpkin glaze or filling for a similar effect.

How do I make them crispier?

Bake for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the edges turn a deeper golden brown.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Spice Shortbread Cookies are a must-try fall dessert that are simple to make, full of warm spices, and perfect for sharing. Whether you enjoy them with coffee, as a holiday gift, or just as a cozy autumn snack, these cookies will become a seasonal favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy the comforting flavors of fall!