Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Delightfully Soft and Sweet

Are you ready to bake the softest, sweetest treat of the season? My Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are the perfect blend of cozy flavors that will make your taste buds dance. With the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg paired with creamy pumpkin, these cookies are a fall favorite. Join me as we dive into the simple steps to create these delightful cookies that will surely impress your friends and family!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground ginger
– ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Icing Ingredients
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2–3 tablespoons milk
– A pinch of ground cinnamon
I love using these simple ingredients for my pumpkin sugar cookies. The dry ingredients create a base that is light and fluffy. The spices bring warmth and flavor, making each bite a treat. The wet ingredients add moisture and sweetness. Pumpkin puree gives the cookies a soft texture and a lovely color.
For the icing, I stick to just a few ingredients. Powdered sugar and milk combine to create a smooth icing. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top makes it special. When I bake these cookies, I feel the joy of the season. You can find the full recipe for these delightful cookies included above. Enjoy baking and sharing them!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation and Preheating
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
– Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, spices, and salt in a mixing bowl.
Creaming Butter and Sugars
– Cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed until fluffy.
Combining Wet Ingredients
– Add egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla; beat until smooth and combined.
Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients
– Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into the wet mixture without over-mixing.
Baking the Cookies
– Scoop dough onto prepared sheets and bake for 10 to 12 minutes.
Cooling and Icing
– Cool cookies on wire racks before icing with powdered sugar and milk mixture.
Follow these steps for perfect pumpkin sugar cookies. For more details, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To keep your cookies soft, avoid over-mixing the dough. When you mix too much, the cookies can turn tough. I recommend mixing just until the flour is combined. This helps maintain that delightful, tender bite.
Baking Time Adjustment
Ovens can vary greatly. So, monitor your baking time closely. I suggest checking the cookies at the 10-minute mark. You want the edges to be set and lightly golden, while the centers should still look soft.
Icing Consistency
For the icing, start with the milk. Add it little by little until you reach your desired thickness. If you want a thicker icing, use less milk. For a thinner drizzle, add more. This flexibility allows you to make the icing just right for your cookies.
Variations
Flavor Additions
You can make your pumpkin sugar cookies even more fun! Try adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. Chocolate chips give a sweet bite, while nuts add a nice crunch. You can use walnuts, pecans, or even almonds. Mix them into the dough before baking. This change will surprise your taste buds!
Icing Alternatives
If you want to change the icing, use cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor. This frosting pairs well with the soft cookie. It adds a tangy sweetness that you will love. Just spread it on after the cookies cool. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra touch.
Gluten-Free Option
If you need a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. There are many great blends available at stores. Make sure to check that it works well for baking. This way, everyone can enjoy these delightful cookies. Just follow the Full Recipe, and you will have a tasty treat!
Storage Info
Room Temperature
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and moist. If you want to enjoy them longer, you should think about other storage methods.
Refrigeration
For extended freshness, refrigerate cookies for up to 2 weeks. Just wrap them well to avoid any drying out. The cool air helps maintain their flavor and texture.
Freezing
Freeze unbaked dough or iced cookies for later enjoyment. To freeze dough, scoop it into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. You can also freeze iced cookies in a single layer. Just layer parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. When ready to bake, simply pop the dough balls into the oven straight from the freezer! This makes cookie baking quick and easy. Enjoy the joy of fresh cookies anytime! For the full recipe, be sure to check out the details above.
FAQs
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, pumpkin pie filling contains additional spices and sugar. Using it can change the flavor and sweetness of your cookies. Stick with pure pumpkin puree for the best results.
How do I make the cookies thicker?
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to increase thickness. This helps the cookies hold their shape better while baking. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.
What decorations work well with pumpkin sugar cookies?
Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or edible glitter work great for festive occasions. You can also use icing to create fun designs. Get creative and make each cookie unique!
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative and use non-dairy milk for icing. This way, you can enjoy these cookies without dairy. It’s easy to modify the recipe to fit your needs.
How do I ensure even baking?
Rotate baking sheets halfway through the bake time. This helps cookies bake evenly and prevents one side from browning too much. It’s a quick tip for perfect results!
These pumpkin sugar cookies are simple to make and full of fall flavor. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some handy tips to ensure success. With a few variations, you can even customize them to fit your taste. Whether you enjoy them fresh or save for later, these cookies promise to delight. Enjoy your baking journey and treat yourself to these tasty bites!
