Soft Pumpkin Cookies Recipe

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

Sharing is caring!

What’s more cozy than pumpkin cookies baking in the oven? Even though it’s over 80 degrees outside, I can’t help but get in the fall spirit. I love all pumpkin everything, okay most things.

These pumpkin cookies are soft and delicious, with just the right amount of spice. This recipe only calls for cinnamon instead of pumpkin pie spice, so it is much lighter in flavor than other pumpkin recipes. Other than pumpkin, the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples. You probably already have what you need to make these!

Ingredients You Will Need

Butter: Provides richness, flavor, and moisture. It also creates a tender crumb structure when creamed with sugar.

Sugar: Adds sweetness, enhances flavor, and helps to create the cookie’s texture.

Flour: The primary structure of the cookie. It provides the bulk and holds the ingredients together.

Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents create the rise and lightness in the cookies.

Egg: Binds the ingredients together, adds moisture, and contributes to the cookie’s structure.

Pumpkin: Provides the characteristic flavor and moisture of the cookie.

Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor, adding a warm and sweet note.

Cinnamon: A classic warm spice that complements the pumpkin flavor.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my cookies flat?

• Overmixing the dough can lead to flat cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Using too much baking powder or baking soda can also cause flat cookies.

Why are my cookies dry? Not enough moisture can result in dry cookies. Ensure you use the correct amount of pumpkin puree and don’t overbake.

Can I freeze pumpkin cookie dough? Yes, you can freeze unbaked cookie dough for later use. Scoop it into balls and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Helpful Tips

Pumpkin: Make sure your pumpkin puree is pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.

Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar. Overly soft butter can lead to flat cookies.

Room Temperature Egg: Like the butter, a room temperature egg incorporates better with the other ingredients.

Creaming: Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, making the cookies soft and chewy.

Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies.

Scoop Even Amounts: Use a cookie scoop for consistent cookie sizes.

Storage Tips

Short-Term Storage (2-3 days)

• Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help prevent them from drying out.  
• Single Layers: If possible, place a piece of wax paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking and maintain their shape.

Medium-Term Storage (Up to a Week)

Note: Refrigeration might slightly alter the texture of the cookies, making them firmer.

Refrigerator: For longer freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This can help prevent them from becoming stale.

Long-Term Storage (Freezing)

• Freezing: For extended storage, freeze your cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Once frozen, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Thawing: To thaw, let the cookies sit at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Important Tip: Always allow cookies to cool completely before storing to prevent moisture build-up.

Substitutions and Variations

Pumpkin: Sweet potato is another great option with a slightly different flavor profile.

Spices: Experiment with different spice combinations. Try cardamom, nutmeg, ginger, or cloves.

Nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds can add texture and flavor.

Chocolate Chips: Dark, milk, or white chocolate chips are classic additions.

Dried Fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots can add sweetness and chewiness.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cookies: Add instant coffee granules and a touch of chocolate for a coffee shop-inspired treat.

Oatmeal Pumpkin Cookies: Incorporate rolled oats for a heartier cookie.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Cookies

Coffee or tea: A perfect afternoon pick-me-up, especially with a splash of cream or milk.

Vanilla ice cream: For a decadent dessert, serve cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Spicy chai tea latte: The bold spices in the chai complement the warm flavors of the cookie.

Apple cider: A cozy combination that highlights the fall flavors.

A bowl of chili or soup: A warm and comforting combination, perfect for a chilly day.

Other Recipes You May Enjoy

If you like my Pumpkin Cookies, you might also like my Pumpkin Bundt Cake or my Pumpkin Torte. These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are also delicious.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Cookies are the perfect way to celebrate fall and all its coziness. They’re perfect for dipping in coffee or having after dinner. No matter what time of day you eat them, you will be in for a treat!