Simple Pumpkin Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, then these Simple Pumpkin Pie Cookies are just what you need. They’re soft and chewy, bringing together the warm spices and real pumpkin flavor that we all love in traditional pumpkin pie. This recipe has become a favorite in my household for its cozy aroma and comforting taste, making it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to festive gatherings. Trust me, once you bake these cookies, they will quickly become a go-to dessert for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for those days when you want something homemade but don’t have a lot of time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet pumpkin flavor and chewy texture. It’s a treat everyone can enjoy!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake a batch ahead of time and store them for later. They stay fresh for days and make an excellent snack or dessert.
• Festive Flavor: With the warm spices and pumpkin purée, these cookies are not just tasty; they bring a bit of holiday cheer with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious Simple Pumpkin Pie Cookies:

For the Cookies

• 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 oz cream cheese, at room temp
• 6 oz unsalted butter, at room temp (12 tbsp)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg yolk, at room temp
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup coarse sugar, for rolling

For the Filling

• 1 large egg, at room temp
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• Pinch table salt
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup pumpkin purée
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

To Serve

• Whipped cream

Variations

This recipe is flexible and can easily be adapted to suit your tastes! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra sweet touch.
• Use Different Spices: Try adding cinnamon or nutmeg instead of pumpkin pie spice if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Experiment with Frosting: Top your cookies with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk for an extra special treat!

How to Make Simple Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Start by mixing your dry ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This step is important because it ensures that your spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cheese

In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese and unsalted butter until creamy. Adding this mixture creates a rich texture that makes your cookies delightfully soft.

Step 3: Add Sugars and Egg Yolks

Next, mix in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until well combined. This step adds sweetness while keeping the dough moist.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies!

Step 5: Chill Your Dough

Cover your dough and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to handle when rolling into balls.

Step 6: Prepare Your Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the filling ingredients—egg, brown sugar, table salt, pumpkin pie spice, whole milk, pumpkin purée, and vanilla extract—until smooth. This creamy filling adds that classic pumpkin pie flavor we all love.

Step 7: Roll and Fill

Once chilled, roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls then roll them in coarse sugar before placing them on a lined baking sheet. Make an indention in each ball using your thumb to create space for the filling.

Step 8: Bake

Spoon your pumpkin filling into each indention before placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake until golden brown! The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 9: Serve

Once cooled slightly, enjoy these Simple Pumpkin Pie Cookies on their own or topped with whipped cream—a delightful way to round out this autumn treat!

Pro Tips for Making Simple Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Baking is all about having fun and experimenting, so here are some tips to help you make the best pumpkin pie cookies possible!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, cream cheese, and egg to room temperature ensures they blend smoothly, giving you a fluffy dough that bakes evenly.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: If you have time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can enhance the flavors and prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon and level method to ensure you’re not adding too much flour. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while just the right amount keeps them soft and chewy.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice or add cinnamon and nutmeg to customize the flavor profile according to your preference. This adds a personal touch!
• Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is different! Check your cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time for perfectly soft centers that melt in your mouth.

How to Serve Simple Pumpkin Pie Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night at home or a festive gathering. Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a creamy texture that complements the cookie’s softness.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: Dusting a little cinnamon sugar over baked cookies brings an extra layer of flavor and makes them look even more inviting.

Side Dishes

• Apple cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider pairs wonderfully with these cookies, enhancing their fall flavors.
• Vanilla ice cream: Scoop some vanilla ice cream alongside your cookies for a delightful contrast between warm and cold.
• Chili: A savory bowl of chili balances out the sweetness of the cookies beautifully, making it a great meal option for cool evenings.
• Salad with fall ingredients: A light salad featuring mixed greens, cranberries, and pecans adds freshness to your table while complementing the rich flavors of the cookies.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, your Simple Pumpkin Pie Cookies will be an absolute hit! Enjoy the sweet aromas filling your kitchen as you bake up these delicious treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Simple Pumpkin Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store them for later, ensuring you have a delicious treat on hand whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cookies in the same container for up to 1 week.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• You can also microwave them for about 10-15 seconds if you prefer a quicker option.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious cookies!

Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices?

Absolutely! Using pumpkin pie spice simplifies the process and gives your Simple Pumpkin Pie Cookies that wonderful seasonal flavor.

How can I make my Simple Pumpkin Pie Cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, ensure not to overbake them. Remove them from the oven when they are just set but still soft in the center.

Can I substitute cream cheese in this recipe?

Yes! You can use dairy-free cream cheese as a substitute if you’re looking for a non-dairy option without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Your Simple Pumpkin Pie Cookies are ready when they are lightly golden around the edges and still look slightly underbaked in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Simple Pumpkin Pie Cookies! They capture the warmth of fall with every bite, bringing comfort and sweetness into your day. Whether you’re sharing them with family or indulging on your own, these delightful treats are sure to please. Enjoy baking, and don’t forget to try different variations—there’s always something new to discover!