Pumpkin Spice Cookies

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

These Pumpkin Spice Cookies are like cozy autumn in every bite. Soft, chewy, and warmly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, they bring a festive charm to your cookie jar. With real pumpkin puree and a buttery texture, they’re perfect for cool days, warm drinks, and sharing with friends.

Whether you’re baking for a fall gathering or just because your kitchen needs that nostalgic pumpkin spice scent, these cookies are an easy go-to. They come together quickly and freeze beautifully, so you can always have some on hand.

---

Can I Use Canned Pumpkin for These Cookies?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) is ideal. It adds moisture and depth of flavor without the extra spices or sugar found in pre-seasoned fillings. Make sure to blot some moisture out with paper towels if your dough feels too wet.

---

Ingredients for the Pumpkin Spice Cookies

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or chopped pecans

---

How To Make the Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This gives the cookies their soft texture.

Step 2: Add Pumpkin and Wet Ingredients

Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix. Fold in any optional add-ins like white chocolate chips or pecans.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading and enhances the flavor.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers look slightly soft.

---

How to Serve and Store These Cookies

Serve them slightly warm with a cup of chai, coffee, or apple cider. They’re also great alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep my cookies from getting too cakey?

Blot your pumpkin puree to remove excess moisture, and don’t overmix the dough.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. Scoop into balls, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, just add 1-2 extra minutes.

What can I use instead of white chocolate chips?

Dark chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or dried cranberries all work beautifully.

Do I need to chill the dough?

It’s highly recommended. Chilling makes the cookies thicker and helps develop flavor.

---

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Pumpkin Spice Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other flavorful creations:

• Lemon Churro Cookies if you’re into zesty and spiced.
• Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies for a holiday-inspired bite.
• Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies that balance sweet and nutty perfectly.
• Bisquick Chocolate Chip Cookies for a quick, nostalgic treat.
• Irresistible Pecan Pie Bites if you like your cookies pie-inspired.

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for classic spice or add your own twist? Maybe a maple glaze on top?

I love seeing how others bring these recipes to life. Questions are always welcome too—let’s bake smarter together.

You can find more recipe inspiration on my Pinterest @NinaDishes.

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?