Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Name: Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Published: September 16, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of pumpkin pie spices adds warmth and comfort to each bite, evoking the essence of fall.
Versatile Treat: Great for parties, bake sales, or just an afternoon snack; these cookies are sure to please everyone.
Perfectly Chewy: Enjoy the delightful texture that balances softness with a slight chewiness, making every cookie irresistible.
Great for Gifting: Package them up in a cute box or bag for a thoughtful homemade gift during the holiday season.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Electric mixer (optional)
Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
Baking sheet: Provides the perfect surface for even baking of your cookies.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup after baking.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is essential for ensuring even cooking.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine ½ cup unsalted butter and ¾ cup sugar.
2. Use an electric mixer or whisk to cream until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla Extract

Beat in 1 large egg until well combined.
Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together 1½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice.
2. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients:
1. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep cookies soft.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Roll dough into balls about one inch in diameter.
Place them on the prepared baking sheet with space between each ball.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes:
1. Look for edges that are golden brown while keeping centers slightly soft.

Step 8: Cool Cookies

After baking:
1. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
2. Allow them to cool completely before serving or storing.

Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies! They’re sure to bring warmth and joy to any gathering this fall season.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

These delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are not only a treat on their own but can also be paired with various accompaniments to enhance their flavor. Here are some fun serving suggestions that will make your cookie experience even more enjoyable.

With Hot Beverages

Coffee or Tea: The warm flavors of coffee or tea complement the spices in the cookies perfectly.
Hot Chocolate: A rich hot chocolate provides a sweet contrast to the spices, making for a cozy pairing.

As Dessert Sandwiches

Frosting Filling: Spread cream cheese frosting between two cookies for a delicious dessert sandwich.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Place a scoop of vanilla or pumpkin ice cream between two cookies for a seasonal treat.

On a Dessert Platter

Cookie Assortment: Include these cookies on a platter with other fall-themed treats like apple cider donuts and pecan bars.
Decorative Touch: Garnish the plate with cinnamon sticks and star anise for an attractive presentation.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

To ensure your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with soft butter and room temperature eggs helps create a smooth batter for chewy cookies.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mixing just until combined keeps the cookies tender. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Chill Your Dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help the flavors meld and result in thicker cookies.
Watch Baking Time Closely: Remove cookies from the oven when edges are golden, as they will continue to firm up while cooling.
Experiment with Spices: Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice or add nutmeg for a new twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies make a great addition to any dessert spread. Here are some side dishes that pair well with them.

Apple Cider Donuts: These warm, spiced donuts bring out the flavors of fall and complement the sweetness of the cookies.
Pumpkin Pie: A classic dessert that echoes pumpkin flavors, creating a cohesive autumn-themed meal.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over cookies adds extra sweetness and richness that is hard to resist.
Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda to balance the sweetness of the cookies with savory notes.
Chai Latte: This spiced tea pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors, enhancing your cookie experience.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can refresh your palate after indulging in sweet treats, adding balance to your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies can be an enjoyable experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final product.

Not measuring ingredients accurately – Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you get the right amounts for each ingredient.
Overmixing the dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.
Skipping the chilling step – Chilling the dough helps cookies hold their shape. If time allows, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Not preheating the oven – Baking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
Ignoring baking times – Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Remove them from the oven when the edges are golden brown, even if they look underdone in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Microwave – Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until just warm. Be careful not to overdo it, as they can become tough.
Stovetop – Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat and cover with a lid for a few minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies.

What makes Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies special?

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a cozy flavor perfect for fall.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition, but it may change the texture slightly.

How do I make my Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies chewier?

To achieve chewier cookies, consider adding an extra tablespoon of butter or reducing the baking time slightly.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to enhance flavor and texture according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are the perfect blend of soft and chewy textures with delightful fall flavors. They are versatile enough to be customized with your favorite mix-ins. Try out this recipe and enjoy these delicious treats with friends and family!

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