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Pumpkin-Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe

Pumpkin-Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe

5.1 from 13 reviews

These Pumpkin-Spice Sugar Cookies are soft, flavorful, and perfectly spiced treats that combine the warmth of classic pumpkin spices with the sweet crunch of a cinnamon-sugar topping. With moist pumpkin puree adding tenderness and a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, these cookies are ideal for fall gatherings, cozy afternoons, or festive celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

For Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which creates the ideal texture foundation for the cookies.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the large egg, canned pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until fully combined; this adds moisture and rich flavor to the dough.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents.
  4. Combine and Form Dough: Gradually blend the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients just until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overmix as it can cause toughness.
  5. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm; chilling makes the dough easier to handle and helps improve cookie texture.
  6. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
  7. Roll the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness, use cookie cutters to cut desired shapes, and transfer them onto the prepared baking sheets.
  8. Coat the Cookies: In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon and lightly sprinkle the mixture over the tops of the cut cookies to add a sweet, crunchy finish.
  9. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden; keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
  10. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps them set properly without breaking.
  11. Serve: Enjoy these Pumpkin-Spice Sugar Cookies with a glass of milk or your preferred fall beverage for a perfect seasonal treat.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is essential; it enhances flavor and makes rolling easier.
  • Use fresh spices for the best pumpkin spice flavor.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • You can freeze the dough wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 1 month; thaw before rolling and baking.
  • If you prefer softer cookies, slightly reduce the baking time by 1-2 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin spice sugar cookies, pumpkin cookies, fall cookies, autumn desserts, spiced sugar cookies