The moment I took my first bite of a Pumpkin Pie Cookie, I felt as though autumn had wrapped its cozy arms around me. These delightful treats capture the essence of holiday gatherings, combining a buttery brown sugar cookie base with a velvety pumpkin pie filling that warms your soul. With their easy prep and satisfying flavors, Pumpkin Pie Cookies are the perfect alternative to traditional pie, bringing comfort and joy without the fuss. Plus, they make for great leftovers—if they last that long! If you’re ready to impress your friends and family with a sweet twist on a classic favorite, let’s dive into crafting these little gems together. What’s your favorite way to celebrate fall flavors? Why Choose Pumpkin Pie Cookies? Cozy Autumn Flavors: These cookies encapsulate the warm essence of fall, blending spices and pumpkin for a nostalgic treat. Easy to Make: With a straightforward recipe, you can whip these up with minimal fuss—perfect for beginner bakers! Comforting Treat: The chewy cookie base paired with creamy filling creates a delightful dessert experience that rivals traditional pie. Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or using Biscoff Cookie Butter for an unexpected twist! Perfect for Gatherings: They’re ideal for festive occasions, ensuring you impress guests with their unique taste. Try alongside other favorites like Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Cups for a dessert spread that wows! Pumpkin Pie Cookie Ingredients For the Cookie Base • Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; can be swapped with margarine. • Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps shape the cookie structure. • Light Brown Sugar – Offers a caramel note that enhances flavor and chewiness. • Egg – Binds the ingredients and aids in the rise; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative. • Vanilla Extract – Imparts a delicious depth of flavor; opt for pure extract for the best results. • All-Purpose Flour – Gives the cookies structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. • Baking Powder – Responsible for a lighter texture through quality leavening. • Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor. • Graham Cracker Crumbs – Creates a pie crust-like base; crushed digestive biscuits can be used if needed. For the Pie Filling • Pumpkin Puree – The star that delivers moistness and nutrition; ensure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling. • Light Brown Sugar (for filling) – Adds sweetness and richness to the filling. • Evaporated Milk – Contributes creaminess; feel free to substitute with regular cream. • Pumpkin Pie Spice – Blends warm spices for an authentic pumpkin flavor; homemade blends work beautifully, too. These Pumpkin Pie Cookies promise an exciting twist on traditional pumpkin pie, making them a delightful addition to your autumn dessert lineup! Enjoy crafting these cozy treats! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Pie Cookie Step 1: Preheat the Oven Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your Pumpkin Pie Cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan. As the oven warms up, you can gather your ingredients and utensils, including a stand mixer or mixing bowl for combining the delicious cookie dough. Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars In a stand mixer or large bowl, combine the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is creamy and light, about 2-3 minutes. You want it to look fluffy and pale, indicating air has been incorporated, which will make your cookies tender and delightful. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients Gradually add the all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on low speed just until the dough starts to come together, ensuring not to overmix. This will maintain the soft texture of your Pumpkin Pie Cookies. Once the dough is formed, it should be slightly sticky but cohesive. Step 4: Shape the Cookies Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll each piece into a ball. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. With your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon, create a small indentation in the center of each cookie. This will hold your delicious pumpkin filling once baked. Step 5: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling While the cookies are baking for the first five minutes, prepare your pumpkin filling. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, light brown sugar for the filling, evaporated milk, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth and well combined. This flavorful blend will provide that classic pumpkin pie taste in your cookies. Step 6: Add the Pumpkin Filling After the initial five-minute bake, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Spoon about 2 teaspoons of the pumpkin filling into the indentation of each partially baked cookie. This step adds that delightful creamy center that makes Pumpkin Pie Cookies so special. Step 7: Bake the Cookies Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake the cookies for an additional 9-11 minutes. Look for a golden-brown color on the edges of the cookies, and ensure the filling is set—this indicates they are perfectly baked. The aroma of warm spices will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait! Step 8: Cool and Serve Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This brief cooling period helps them firm up while maintaining that soft, chewy texture. Serve your Pumpkin Pie Cookies warm or at room temperature, and feel free to add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra-special treat. Pumpkin Pie Cookie Variations Feel free to make these Pumpkin Pie Cookies your own with some fun twists and substitutions! Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine, and use almond milk in the filling for a dairy-free delight. Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the cookie dough for a delightful crunch and deeper flavor. Chocolate Lovers: Stir in mini chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the pumpkin filling, creating an indulgent treat. Spice It Up: Amp up the warming spices by adding nutmeg or cinnamon directly to the cookie base for a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen. Sweet Potato Twist: Swap pumpkin puree for sweet potato puree for a different yet equally delicious flavor experience. Oreo Crust Base: For a fun and dark twist, replace the graham cracker crumbs with crushed Oreos, introducing a rich chocolatey flavor to your cookie base. Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Roll the dough balls in cinnamon sugar before baking for an extra layer of sweetness and a lovely finish, reminiscent of cozy cinnamon rolls. These variations allow you to explore and customize your Pumpkin Pie Cookies to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting, and don’t forget to try pairing them with a comforting mug of cider or alongside Bakery Style Cookies for a delightful dessert spread! Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Cookies Mix Wisely: Avoid overmixing the dough to ensure your Pumpkin Pie Cookies remain soft and chewy. Mix just until combined. Filling Generosity: Use a generous amount of the pumpkin filling in each cookie’s indentation for added richness and a flavor boost. Even Spacing: Make sure to space your cookie dough balls evenly on the baking sheet. This ensures even baking and prevents them from merging together. Butter Temperature: Use room-temperature butter for easier creaming with sugars. This helps achieve a light and fluffy cookie base. Check the Filling: Make sure the pumpkin filling is set before removing from the oven. Underbaked filling might not have the desired creamy texture. Storage Secrets: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, or freeze them for up to 3 months for future cozy snacking! What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Cookies? Enjoy the bliss of autumn while enhancing your dessert spread with these cozy treats that will leave your loved ones craving more. Coffee: A warm cup of coffee perfectly complements the sweet, spiced filling of these cookies, making it an ideal afternoon pick-me-up. The rich, robust flavors create a delightful contrast with the cookies’ sweetness. Hot Apple Cider: The fruity and spiced notes of hot apple cider carry the essence of fall, inviting you to savor each cozy sip alongside your Pumpkin Pie Cookies. This duo brings back nostalgic memories of festive gatherings. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the soft, chewy texture of the cookies. The cold treat adds a refreshing element that balances the warm spices in each bite. Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream enhances the cookies’ creamy filling, making them feel even more indulgent. This classic addition elevates their comforting charm to an impressive dessert. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over your Pumpkin Pie Cookies adds an extra layer of sweetness and sophistication. The rich, buttery flavor mingles with the cookies, creating a delightful flavor explosion. Pumpkin Spice Latte: Perfect for embracing the autumn vibes, this iconic drink mirrors the flavors in your cookies, creating a harmonious pairing full of warmth and coziness. It’s truly a match made in fall heaven! Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a little variety, set up a cookie platter with these and traditional chocolate chip cookies. This creates a delightful contrast between flavors and textures, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Make Ahead Options These Pumpkin Pie Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to savor the cozy flavors of fall without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. Additionally, the pumpkin filling can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. To maintain their delightful texture, avoid mixing the dough too much when you prepare it. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the dough, create the indents, fill them with the chilled pumpkin mixture, and bake as per the instructions. You’ll have delicious cookies hot out of the oven with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pie Cookies Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor. Fridge: If you prefer your cookies chilled, they can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to seal them tightly to prevent drying out. Freezer: To enjoy these cookies later, freeze them in a single layer until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen Pumpkin Pie Cookie, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste! Pumpkin Pie Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right pumpkin puree? Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Pumpkin Pie Cookies, always select pure pumpkin puree, which provides the freshest, most natural essence of pumpkin. Avoid canned pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can alter your cookie’s intended taste. What’s the best way to store leftover cookies? To keep your Pumpkin Pie Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy them later, store in the fridge for up to a week, making sure they’re tightly sealed to prevent them from drying out. Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Cookies, and how? Yes! To freeze your cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them into an airtight container or freezer bag, layering between parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm your cookies in the microwave for 15 seconds. What should I do if my filling didn’t set properly? If your pumpkin filling is too runny, it may need more time in the oven. Ensure the cookies are baked until the filling is just set and not jiggly when you take them out. If the cookies turned out too soft, you might have added too much liquid or not baked them long enough. Next time, double-check your measurements and the baking time for that perfect creamy texture! Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies? While Pumpkin Pie Cookies are delightful, they do contain common allergens like eggs and dairy. If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using a flax egg as a vegan alternative and swap the evaporated milk for a plant-based milk. Always check the specific brands and ingredients for potential cross-contamination with allergens. Can I personalize the flavor of my cookies? Very much! Feel free to add extras such as chocolate chips, nuts, or even a splash of maple syrup to the cookie dough for additional flavor. You can also experiment with different spices if you want to make your Pumpkin Pie Cookies uniquely yours—why not add a hint of nutmeg or a dash of ginger? Pumpkin Pie Cookie Bliss: Your Fall Dessert Game Changer These Pumpkin Pie Cookies combine a buttery brown sugar cookie base with a velvety filling, bringing comfort and joy for fall gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Base1 cup Unsalted Butter Provides richness and moisture1 cup Granulated Sugar Adds sweetness1 cup Light Brown Sugar Offers a caramel note1 large Egg Binds ingredients1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Opt for pure extract2 cups All-Purpose Flour Gives cookies structure1 teaspoon Baking Powder Responsible for leavening1 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness1 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs Creates a pie crust-like baseFor the Pie Filling1 cup Pumpkin Puree Ensure it’s pure pumpkin1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar Adds richness to the filling1/2 cup Evaporated Milk Contributes creaminess1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice Blends warm spices Equipment Stand mixerMixing bowlbaking sheetParchment paper Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Pie CookiePreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Cream the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar together until creamy and light, about 2-3 minutes.Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.Gradually add the all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together.Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough into balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.Create a small indentation in the center of each cookie.In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, light brown sugar for filling, evaporated milk, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.Spoon about 2 teaspoons of the pumpkin filling into each cookie's indentation after the first 5 minutes of baking.Bake for an additional 9-11 minutes until edges are golden brown and filling is set.Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 70mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
