Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, then this Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe is just what you need! These cookies combine the warm spices of pumpkin pie with a thick and chewy texture that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re cozying up on a busy weeknight or preparing for a family gathering, these cookies are sure to impress everyone around the table.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s not just the amazing flavor; it’s how easy it is to whip up a batch of these cookies. They bring comfort and joy, making every bite feel like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious cookies ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone from kids to grandparents will adore the rich pumpkin flavor and cozy spices.
• Perfect for sharing: Bring them to potlucks or holiday gatherings—these cookies are always a hit!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake them today and enjoy them for days to come, perfect for meal prep or snacking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! You likely have most of these in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need for your Pumpkin Pie Cookies:

For the Cookies

• 2 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour (337g)
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 oz cream cheese (room temperature, 86g)
• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature, 6oz)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (110g)
• ½ cup brown sugar packed (112g)
• 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling

• ⅓ cup coarse sugar for rolling (78g)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• ¼ cup brown sugar (56g)
• Pinch table salt
• ½ teaspoon pumpkin spice
• ¼ cup whole milk (2oz)
• ½ cup pumpkin puree (122g)
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

For Serving

• Whipped cream for serving (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your flavors and ingredients. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in some mini chocolate chips for an extra sweet surprise.
• Try different spices: Experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg if you want to switch up the spice profile.
• Make them gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
• Incorporate nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch and depth of flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. This step is essential because it ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect cookie texture. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and set it aside so you’re ready to bake!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin spice, and salt. This step allows you to evenly distribute the spices throughout the flour, ensuring every bite has that wonderful pumpkin flavor.

Step 3: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add in both sugars until well combined. This technique adds air into your mixture, which helps create those light and chewy cookies we all love!

Step 4: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The egg yolk adds richness while the vanilla enhances that warm flavor profile.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, so stop once everything is blended nicely.

Step 6: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, whisk together one large egg, brown sugar, pinch of salt, pumpkin spice, milk, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth. This filling gives your cookies that silky texture reminiscent of classic pumpkin pie.

Step 7: Shape Your Cookies

Scoop out portions of dough and roll them in coarse sugar before placing them on your prepared cookie sheet. Make an indentation in each cookie with your thumb or back of a spoon—this will hold that luscious filling.

Step 8: Bake

Fill each indentation with the pumpkin pie filling mixture. Bake in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until they are lightly golden on the edges. Keep an eye on them; you’ll want that perfect balance between soft centers and crisp bottoms!

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Let your cookies cool slightly before transferring them to wire racks. Serve warm with whipped cream on top if desired—it’s such a delightful treat!

Now you’ve created something truly special! Enjoy sharing these Pumpkin Pie Cookies with loved ones—they’re bound to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe

Baking can be a joyful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure your Pumpkin Pie Cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: By bringing your cream cheese, butter, and egg to room temperature, you’ll create a smoother dough that mixes more easily and bakes evenly.
• Don’t skip chilling the dough: If you have the time, chilling the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking helps to enhance the flavors and prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon your flour into your measuring cup and level it off rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents overly dense cookies that can happen from packing too much flour.
• Watch your baking time: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your cookies during baking; they should be golden at the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin spice or add other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor twist that makes your cookies stand out.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe

These Pumpkin Pie Cookies are delightful on their own but presenting them beautifully can turn them into a showstopper at any gathering!

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a lovely touch of creaminess that complements the pumpkin flavor.
• Cinnamon Sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon over each cookie gives them a warm aroma and enhances their festive look.
• Chopped Nuts: Finely chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top add texture and crunch, making each bite even more satisfying.

Side Dishes

• Apple Crisp: This warm dessert made with sweet baked apples and a crunchy topping pairs wonderfully with pumpkin cookies for a comforting fall-themed treat.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside these cookies creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over these cookies offers an indulgent sweetness that takes them to another level. It’s perfect for those who love rich flavors!
• Spiced Hot Cocoa: A cup of spiced hot cocoa makes for a cozy beverage pairing that’s ideal for enjoying alongside these delicious cookies on chilly evenings.

With these serving ideas, you’re sure to impress family and friends at your next gathering. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious treats throughout the week without the hassle of daily baking. The flavors only get better with time, making them a wonderful addition to your dessert lineup.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, place a piece of bread in the container to help maintain moisture.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350℉ and bake for about 5 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree in the Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe?

While you can use pumpkin pie filling, it contains additional spices and sugar. If you prefer a tailored flavor, stick with pure pumpkin puree and adjust the spices to your liking.

How do I store leftovers from my Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage!

Can I substitute the cream cheese in the Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe?

Yes! You can use vegan cream cheese or even applesauce as a healthier alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

What makes this Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe special?

This recipe combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie with the fun and texture of cookies. It’s thick, chewy, and packed with spices that make every bite feel like a warm hug!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Pie Cookies as much as I do! They bring together the best of both worlds: delicious cookie texture and rich pumpkin pie flavor. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or just because you deserve a treat, these cookies are sure to impress. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!