Pumpkin Spice Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, comforting treat that smells like fall in every bite, I’ve got just the thing — my Pumpkin Spice Cookies Recipe. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with that warm pumpkin spice magic that makes you think of crisp leaves and hot cider. I absolutely love how they fill the house with the most inviting aroma while baking, and I can’t wait for you to try them too!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Pumpkin Spice Cookies Recipe is picked to bring out that classic fall flavor and texture you’ll adore. Plus, a few tips on choosing the best versions to make these cookies truly pop!

• Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter gives you full control over the saltiness of your cookies.
• Brown sugar: I prefer brown sugar for its moisture and deep caramel notes that pair beautifully with pumpkin spice.
• Pumpkin spice: Look for a quality seasoning blend—freshness really makes a difference here.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds an extra hint of warmth that complements the pumpkin spice.
• Large egg and egg yolk: The egg yolk adds richness and chewiness to the cookies.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors nicely.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of many cookies, it provides structure without heaviness.
• Baking soda: The leavening that helps your cookies rise just enough.
• Cream of tartar: A secret weapon for a slight tang and tender texture.
• Table salt: Enhances all those sweet and spicy flavors.
• Granulated sugar (for rolling): Gives the cookie exterior a lovely slight crunch and sparkle.
• Pumpkin spice (for rolling): Double the spice magic by coating the dough balls before baking.

Variations

I love making this Pumpkin Spice Cookies Recipe my own depending on the mood or occasion. Feel free to get creative — baking is for experimenting as much as it’s for enjoying!

• Add-ins: Sometimes I throw in chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch that my family goes crazy for.
• Vegan version: Swap butter for coconut oil and use a flax egg to keep the same texture with no dairy.
• Spice it up: If you like it bolder, I’ve added an extra pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg before — love the kick it gives!
• Gluten-free: Using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works beautifully and keeps the softness intact.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Start by beating the softened unsalted butter with brown sugar, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and creamy. I find that this is when the cookie dough starts smelling like pure fall bliss! Use an electric mixer if you have one—it really helps achieve that light texture. Make sure your butter isn’t too cold or you’ll have trouble mixing evenly.

Step 2: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Next, stir in the egg, extra yolk, and vanilla extract on low speed. I like to pause and scrape the sides of the bowl a couple of times here so everything blends nicely. The egg yolk is a little trick I learned to make cookies soft but not cakey.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. This helps to distribute the leavening agents evenly so your cookies bake up perfectly. You don’t want any clumps of baking soda sneaking into just one cookie!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in 3-4 parts while mixing on low speed. Scrape down the bowl sides and bottom a few times for even mixing. The dough will be soft but manageable — if it feels sticky, pop it in the fridge for a bit to firm up.

Step 5: Chill the Dough and Prepare Sugar Coating

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill for about 30 minutes; this helps the flavors meld and prevents spreading while baking. While waiting, mix the granulated sugar and pumpkin spice in a small bowl — this coating adds a beautiful texture and spice burst on your cookies’ surface.

Step 6: Shape, Coat, and Bake

Roll the dough into roughly 1 ½ tablespoon-sized balls—don’t worry about being perfect, a little irregularity gives character. Roll each ball in the spiced sugar until fully coated, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing at least 2 inches apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. You want the edges set but the centers still a bit soft—this will keep them chewy once cooled.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before moving them—this step is crucial to avoid breakage. Once cooled, they’re ready to be devoured (or boxed up for friends!).

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I like to dust a few of the cookies with a little extra cinnamon sugar once they’re cooled to add sparkle and an extra touch of flavor. Sometimes a light drizzle of melted white chocolate adds a festive vibe that my guests rave about.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a steaming mug of chai tea or hot apple cider. My family especially loves them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert that feels extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I arrange these cookies on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of whipped cream, caramel sauce, and chopped nuts. It makes for a beautiful and interactive dessert spread that everyone enjoys.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They keep their softness beautifully for up to five days, although in my house, they rarely last that long. For best texture, I place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these cookies successfully by first freezing the dough balls on a baking sheet, then transferring them to freezer bags. When I want fresh cookies, I bake from frozen but add an extra minute or two to the baking time. The flavor stays spot-on.

Reheating

To warm up leftover cookies, I pop them in a 300°F oven for 3-5 minutes. This brings back the softness and makes them taste just like freshly baked. You can also microwave briefly for a quick soft bite if you’re in a rush.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I’m telling you, once you try this Pumpkin Spice Cookies Recipe, it might just become your new go-to for the season. The blend of spices, combined with the soft chewy texture, creates a cookie that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s for a cozy night in or sharing with friends, these cookies never fail to impress and evoke all the best autumn vibes. Give this recipe a whirl — I know you’ll love how easy and rewarding it is!

Print