Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies: A Fall Baking Delight

Autumn’s arrival brings with it a wave of cozy comfort, and what better way to embrace the season than with a batch of warm, freshly baked Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies? These delightful treats combine the classic sweetness of sugar cookies with the irresistible warmth of pumpkin spice, creating a perfect fall dessert. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen – the fragrant blend of cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg, mingling with the sweet scent of buttery cookies. These cookies are not just a delicious indulgence; they’re a sensory experience, transporting you to a world of autumnal bliss. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with a warm beverage, or simply want to add a touch of autumn magic to your day, these Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are the perfect choice. They’re surprisingly easy to make, yet incredibly rewarding, and the result is a cookie that’s both visually appealing and utterly delicious. Get ready to experience the quintessential fall flavor combination taken to a whole new level of deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe

This Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a guaranteed success story for every baker, regardless of skill level. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore making and sharing these delightful cookies:

• Unbelievably Flavorful: The perfect balance of pumpkin spice and sweet sugar cookie dough creates a taste sensation. Each bite offers a delightful mix of warm spices and sweet, buttery goodness. You’ll taste the distinct notes of cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg, beautifully complemented by the smooth, creamy pumpkin puree.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple, even for beginners. The straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients make it a breeze to whip up a batch of these delicious cookies.
• Perfectly Chewy Texture: These cookies achieve the ideal balance between soft and chewy. They’re not overly hard or crumbly, providing a delightful texture with every bite. The pumpkin puree adds moisture, contributing to their soft and chewy consistency.
• Customizable Icing: The recipe encourages creativity! You’re free to use your favorite icing recipe or purchase store-bought icing. Experiment with different colors, flavors, and designs to personalize your cookies and make them truly unique. You can even try a cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of deliciousness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From cozy fall gatherings to holiday celebrations, these Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are an ideal treat for any occasion. Their festive look and delicious taste make them a crowd-pleaser.
• Makes Wonderful Gifts: Bake a batch of these cookies and share the joy of fall with friends and family. They make beautiful and delicious gifts, perfect for any occasion.

Why You Should Try This Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe

In a world overflowing with cookie recipes, this Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies recipe stands out for several compelling reasons:

• Unique Fall Flavor Profile: Unlike plain sugar cookies, these cookies offer a distinctive fall flavor that is both comforting and festive. The warm spices are perfectly balanced, preventing any single spice from overpowering the others. This harmonious blend creates a truly unforgettable taste.
• Impressive Presentation: These cookies look as good as they taste. Their warm, inviting color and the option to decorate them with festive icing make them a beautiful addition to any gathering or dessert table. They’re perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots!
• Versatile Recipe: The recipe offers opportunities for customization. Feel free to experiment with different icing options or add mix-ins to the cookie dough, such as chocolate chips or chopped nuts. This versatility ensures that you can tailor the cookies to your preferences.
• Perfect for Beginners: The straightforward instructions and simple techniques make this recipe incredibly accessible, even for those with limited baking experience. It’s the perfect recipe to build confidence in your baking skills.
• Affordable Ingredients: The ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, and the recipe doesn’t require any expensive or specialized ingredients. This makes it a budget-friendly option for baking delicious cookies throughout the fall season.
• A Recipe to Treasure: This Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies recipe is one you’ll want to keep coming back to year after year. It’s a classic recipe that will become a staple in your fall baking repertoire. The comforting flavors and ease of preparation make it a true kitchen favorite.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients and tools is crucial for baking success. Let’s delve into the specifics, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable baking experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Using softened butter is key for proper creaming with the sugar. Let your butter sit at room temperature for about an hour until it’s easily spreadable. This ensures a smooth and light cookie dough.
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar: Granulated sugar provides sweetness and helps create a tender crumb. You could experiment with a bit of brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients, add richness, and contribute to the texture. Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for best results.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and adds a touch of warmth. Pure vanilla extract is always recommended for the best flavor.
• 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree: Pumpkin puree adds moisture, flavor, and the signature fall taste to these cookies. Be sure to use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
• 4 cups all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour provides the structure for the cookies. You can try substituting a portion with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda: Baking soda acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise slightly. Ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon is a cornerstone of pumpkin spice, adding warmth and a familiar autumnal flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Ginger provides a subtle spiciness that complements the other spices perfectly.
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves: Cloves add a warm, slightly pungent flavor that contributes to the complexity of the pumpkin spice blend. Use sparingly, as it can be overpowering.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, balancing the spicier notes of the other spices.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
• Icing: Use your favorite icing recipe, or purchase store-bought icing for convenience. Cream cheese icing pairs particularly well with these cookies.

Necessary Utensils:

• Large mixing bowls (at least two): One for creaming the butter and sugar, and another for combining the dry ingredients.
• Electric mixer (handheld or stand): An electric mixer is highly recommended for creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for baking success. Use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for baking.
• Whisk: A whisk is used for thoroughly combining the dry ingredients.
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon: These are useful for scraping down the sides of the bowl and ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
• Baking sheets: At least two baking sheets are recommended to bake the cookies in batches.
• Parchment paper: Parchment paper prevents the cookies from sticking to the baking sheets and makes cleanup easier.
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon: A cookie scoop or tablespoon helps ensure that all cookies are roughly the same size and ensures even baking.
• Wire rack: A wire rack allows the cookies to cool completely without becoming soggy.
• Piping bag (optional): If using homemade icing, a piping bag allows for decorative frosting.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfectly baked Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the cookies bake evenly. Always preheat your oven before you begin mixing the ingredients.
2. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Leave some overhang on the sides to help you lift the baked cookies.
3. Cream together the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is a crucial step; the more air you incorporate, the lighter and fluffier your cookies will be. Don’t rush this step!
4. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated before adding the next ingredient.
5. Add the pumpkin puree: Stir in the pumpkin puree until it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter. A rubber spatula is helpful for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is combined.
6. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until all the spices are evenly distributed. This ensures that your cookies will have a consistent flavor throughout.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies.
8. Scoop onto baking sheets: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Using a cookie scoop ensures consistent sizing and even baking.
9. Bake: Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven. Start checking for doneness around 9 minutes.
10. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking and allows them to set properly.
11. Frost: Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them with your favorite icing. Let the icing set before serving or storing.

Tips and Variations for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Here are some tips and variations to enhance your baking experience and cater to different preferences:

• Chill the dough: For a thicker, chewier cookie, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This also helps prevent spreading.
• Add mix-ins: Enhance the flavor and texture by adding mix-ins to the dough, such as chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or dried cranberries. These additions will elevate the flavor profile of your cookies.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier cookie, increase the amount of ginger or cloves. Conversely, reduce the amount of these spices for a milder flavor.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or applesauce. Make sure to use vegan-friendly icing as well.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Some blends may require adjustments to the liquid content for optimal results. Look for a blend specifically designed for cookies.
• Avoid overmixing: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
• Don’t overbake: Overbaked cookies will be dry and hard. Start checking for doneness a minute or two before the minimum baking time.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

While these cookies are a delightful indulgence, it’s important to be mindful of their nutritional content. A single cookie will vary in nutritional value depending on the size and ingredients used. Approximate values for a medium-sized cookie (assuming typical ingredient quantities and homemade icing):

• Calories: Approximately 200-250 calories
• Protein: Approximately 2-3 grams
• Fat: Approximately 10-12 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams

Benefits of Ingredients:

• Pumpkin Puree: A good source of vitamin A and fiber. It adds moisture and richness to the cookies.
• Spices: Spices like cinnamon and ginger have antioxidant properties and may offer various health benefits (though the quantities in cookies are relatively small).
• Butter: Contains fat-soluble vitamins.

Remember, moderation is key when enjoying these delicious treats as part of a balanced diet.

FAQs about Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are the perfect embodiment of autumnal baking. Their irresistible flavor, soft and chewy texture, and beautiful presentation make them a delightful treat for any occasion. The ease of preparation makes them accessible to bakers of all levels, and the numerous customization options allow you to personalize them to your liking. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be transported to a world of warm spices and sweet, buttery goodness. Don’t forget to share your baking creations with us! Let us know in the comments how your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies turned out and share your photos on social media. Happy baking!

For more delicious fall recipes, check out our Pumpkin Pie Cookies or our Pumpkin Fudge. You might also love our collection of other recipes for every occasion!

And for even more amazing cookie inspiration, check out our Pinterest board! Pinterest

Delicious Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Soft and chewy pumpkin spice sugar cookies, perfect for fall. Easy to make and even easier to devour!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Cookie, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter (2 sticks), softened
• 1 ¾ cups Granulated Sugar
• 2 Large Eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1 15 ounce can Pumpkin Puree
• 4 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 2 teaspoons Baking Soda
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger
• ½ teaspoon Ground Cloves
• ½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• Icing Your favorite recipe or store-bought

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• Electric Mixer
• Baking Sheets
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Wire Rack

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Stir in the pumpkin puree until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them with your favorite icing.

Notes

For extra spice, add ½ teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the dry ingredients. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.