Step into the autumn season with these delightful Fall Pumpkin Cookies. Bursting with warm spices and the rich flavors of pumpkin, these cookies are a perfect treat for the fall. Not only are they delicious, but they are also frosted with a creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting, adding an extra touch of indulgence. The best part? They are easy to make!
Most ingredients for this recipe are pantry staples, but some may not be readily available in all homes. Pumpkin puree, which provides the rich pumpkin flavor, can be found in the canned goods aisle of your supermarket. Pumpkin pie spice, a warming blend of spices often including cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, can typically be found in the spice aisle. If you can't find it, you can make your own by mixing these spices. Fall sprinkles, which add a festive touch, can usually be found in the baking aisle or online.
Ingredients for Fall Pumpkin Cookies
Pumpkin puree: This is the star ingredient, giving the cookies their distinct pumpkin flavor.
Vegetable oil: Helps to moisten and bind the ingredients together.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the cookies.
Egg: This acts as a binding agent in the cookies.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors in the cookies.
Baking soda and baking powder: These are leavening agents that help the cookies rise.
Pumpkin pie spice: This gives the cookies their warm, autumnal flavor.
Kosher salt: Balances out the sweetness.
All-purpose flour: This is the main dry ingredient, providing structure to the cookies.
Butter and cream cheese: The base for the creamy frosting.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
Fall sprinkles: Adds a fun, festive touch to the finished cookies.
One reader, Amberly Paz says:
These fall pumpkin cookies are a game-changer! The soft, pillowy texture and the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and spice make them an absolute delight. The creamy frosting and festive sprinkles take them to the next level. A must-try for any fall gathering!
Techniques Required for Fall Pumpkin Cookies Recipe
How to prepare the cookie dough: Combine the pumpkin puree, oil, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Mix until well combined. Then, add the baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, salt, and all-purpose flour to the bowl. Stir until just combined, cover the bowl, and chill the dough for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours.
How to bake the cookies: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat. Place 2 tablespoons of batter onto the baking sheet at a time, keeping the cookies 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the tops are set and the edges are light golden brown. Let the cookies sit for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack. Repeat the process with the remaining batter and let the cookies cool completely.
How to make the frosting: Place the butter and cream cheese in the bowl of a mixer and mix for about 2 to 3 minutes or until light and fluffy. Add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and mix on low speed until combined. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix for 30 seconds. If the frosting is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of milk at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
How to decorate the cookies: Spread the frosting over the cookies, then add the fall sprinkles on top.
How to store the cookies: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
How To Make Fall Pumpkin Cookies
These light and fluffy pumpkin cookies are topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting and crunchy sprinkles for a tastily spiced snack!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Cookies:
- 1cuppumpkin puree,canned
- ½cupvegetable oil
- 1cupgranulated sugar
- 1egg
- ½tspvanilla extract
- 1tspbaking soda
- 1½tsppumpkin pie spice
- 2tspbaking powder
- ½tspkosher salt
- 2cupsall purpose flour
For Frosting:
- ½cupbutter,softened
- 8ozcream cheese,softened
- 4½cupspowdered sugar
- 1tspvanilla extract
- ½cupfall sprinkles
Instructions
Cookies:
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Place the pumpkin puree, oil, granulated sugar, egg and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Mix until well combined.
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Add the baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, salt, and all-purpose flour to the bowl. Stir until just combined.
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Cover the bowl and chill the dough for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours.
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat.
-
Place 2 tablespoons of batter onto the baking sheet at a time, keeping the cookies 2 inches apart.
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Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until tops are set and edges are light golden brown.
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Let sit 5 minutes, then transfer the cookies to a cooling rack. Repeat the process with the remaining batter. Let the cookies cool completely.
Frosting:
-
Place the butter and cream cheese in the bowl of a mixer and mix for about 2 to 3 minutes or until light and fluffy.
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Add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and mix at low speed until combined. Add the vanilla extract and mix for 30 seconds.
-
If the frosting is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of milk at a time until desired consistency is reached.
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Spread the frosting over the cookies, then add the sprinkles on top.
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Serve immediately, and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Calories: 384.86kcal
- Fat: 16.07g
- Saturated Fat: 6.20g
- Trans Fat: 0.26g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.00g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.54g
- Carbohydrates: 59.09g
- Fiber: 0.79g
- Sugar: 46.94g
- Protein: 2.69g
- Cholesterol: 36.30mg
- Sodium: 214.43mg
- Calcium: 59.96mg
- Potassium: 67.52mg
- Iron: 1.04mg
- Vitamin A: 198.98µg
- Vitamin C: 0.60mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Fall Pumpkin Cookies Recipe
When making these fall pumpkin cookies, ensure that you don't overmix the dough after adding the all purpose flour. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture in the final product. Instead, stir until the ingredients are just combined for a softer, more tender cookie. Also, chilling the dough is an important step as it allows the flavors to meld together and also makes the dough easier to handle. Don't skip this step!
Time-Saving Tips for Making Fall Pumpkin Cookies
Prep ahead: Mix the dry ingredients for the cookies the night before and store them in an airtight container. This way, when you're ready to bake, you'll save time on measuring and mixing.
Efficient baking: Use two baking sheets to bake multiple batches of cookies at once, cutting down on overall baking time.
Streamlined frosting: Prepare the frosting while the cookies are chilling in the refrigerator to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Organized workspace: Set up all your ingredients and tools before you start baking to avoid last-minute searches and save time.
Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to avoid a big mess at the end, making the post-baking cleanup much faster and easier.
Substitute Ingredients For Fall Pumpkin Cookies Recipe
pumpkin puree - Substitute with butternut squash puree: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor to pumpkin, making it a great substitute in this recipe. It also has a smooth texture that works well for baking.
vegetable oil - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a healthier alternative to vegetable oil, adding moisture to the cookies while reducing the fat content.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural, unrefined alternative to granulated sugar, providing a slightly caramel-like flavor that complements the fall spices in the recipe.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Flaxseed meal mixed with water can be used as an egg substitute, adding moisture and binding the ingredients together.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative to cream cheese in the frosting, providing a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
powdered sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a liquid sweetener in the frosting, adding a delicious maple flavor while reducing the amount of refined sugar.
Creative Ways to Present Fall Pumpkin Cookies
- Elevate the cookie: Place the cookie on a decorative plate to enhance its visual appeal and create a stunning presentation.
- Artful frosting: Use a piping bag to create intricate designs with the frosting, adding a touch of elegance to the cookies.
- Garnish with seasonal elements: Sprinkle a few fall leaves or edible flowers around the cookies to bring a touch of nature to the plate.
- Play with height: Stack the cookies on a small pedestal or use a tiered serving dish to add dimension to the presentation.
- Incorporate color contrast: Pair the cookies with a vibrant fruit compote or a drizzle of caramel sauce to create a visually striking contrast on the plate.
- Use edible gold or silver leaf: Adding a touch of edible gold leaf or silver leaf can bring a luxurious and sophisticated element to the presentation.
- Personalized plating: Consider using custom monogrammed plates or engraved serving utensils to add a personalized touch to the presentation.
- Serve with a side: Accompany the cookies with a small scoop of homemade ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to create a well-rounded dessert experience.
Essential Tools for Making Pumpkin Cookies
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the cookie dough.
- Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to place the cookie dough and bake the cookies in the oven.
- Parchment paper or nonstick baking mat: These are used to line the baking sheet to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Mixer: A mixer is used to cream the butter and cream cheese for the frosting until light and fluffy.
- Cooling rack: A cooling rack is used to cool the baked cookies before frosting.
- Spatula: A spatula is used to transfer the cookies from the baking sheet to the cooling rack.
- Food processor: A food processor can be used to make the pumpkin puree from fresh pumpkin.
Storing and Freezing Fall Pumpkin Cookies
To store the fall pumpkin cookies, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. Separate the layers of cookies with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together. The cookies will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
If you want to freeze the pumpkin cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating the layers with parchment paper or wax paper. The cookies will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw the frozen pumpkin cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer to serve them warm, you can reheat the thawed cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.
For the cream cheese frosting, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When ready to serve, let the frosting come to room temperature and give it a quick stir before spreading it on the cookies.
If you have leftover frosted pumpkin cookies, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the cookies sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to soften slightly.
How To Reheat Leftover Pumpkin Cookies
To reheat leftover fall pumpkin cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method will help restore the texture and flavor of the cookies, making them taste almost as good as freshly baked.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 10-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the cookies to become soggy or rubbery. To maintain the texture, you can place a damp paper towel over the cookies while microwaving.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies on the toaster oven rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cookies are warmed through and slightly crispy. This method is perfect for reheating small batches of cookies without having to preheat a full-sized oven.
If you want to enjoy your leftover pumpkin cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, try warming them up in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the cookies in the skillet and heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy. Serve the warm cookies with a scoop of ice cream for a delicious and comforting dessert.
Interesting Fact About Fall Pumpkin Cookies
The pumpkin in this recipe is a rich source of vitamin A, which is essential for good vision and a healthy immune system. Additionally, the cream cheese in the frosting provides a good source of calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Is Making Fall Pumpkin Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
The fall pumpkin cookies recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as pumpkin puree, cream cheese, and pumpkin pie spice, are affordable and readily available. The cookies are a delightful treat for the family, earning a solid 9/10 rating. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly option for a delicious dessert.
Are Fall Pumpkin Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
This fall pumpkin cookie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are the high sugar content and the use of all-purpose flour, which offers little nutritional value. The recipe calls for a total of 5½ cups of sugar (1 cup granulated sugar and 4½ cups powdered sugar), which is excessive and can contribute to various health issues when consumed in large quantities. Additionally, the use of vegetable oil and butter adds to the overall fat content of the cookies.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in both the cookies and the frosting. Experiment with using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey as a partial replacement for the granulated sugar.
- Substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Replace the vegetable oil with healthier alternatives such as coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce.
- Decrease the amount of frosting used on each cookie or opt for a lighter frosting made with Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.
- Incorporate additional spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive sugar.
- Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for a boost of healthy fats and protein.
Editor's Opinion on This Fall Pumpkin Cookies Recipe
The fall pumpkin cookies recipe is a delightful seasonal treat that captures the essence of autumn. The combination of pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a creamy frosting creates a perfect balance of flavors. The cookies are moist and tender, with a hint of sweetness that is complemented by the rich cream cheese frosting. The addition of fall sprinkles adds a festive touch, making these cookies a charming addition to any autumn gathering. Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot cider or as a sweet ending to a harvest meal, these cookies are sure to evoke the cozy spirit of fall.
Enhance Your Fall Pumpkin Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Ideal Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Fall Pumpkin Cookies Recipe
Why trust this Fall Pumpkin Cookies Recipe:
This recipe is a guaranteed hit for the fall season, featuring pumpkin puree and warm spices. The cookies are soft, moist, and bursting with fall flavors. The creamy cream cheese frosting adds a delightful touch, and the fall sprinkles provide a festive finish. Trust the combination of these high-quality ingredients to create a delightful treat that will impress your family and friends.
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Conclusion
These soft pumpkin cookies are better than store bought ones. They are soft yet crunchy, and packed full of pumpkin flavor to get you into the fall mood. Serve them up with some warm milk for a more tasteful afternoon snack.Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
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