Picture a crisp autumn afternoon, the golden leaves dancing in the breeze and the scent of warm spices wafting through the air. It’s that special time of year when pumpkin takes center stage, and nothing captures that feeling quite like Pumpkin Pie Cookies. These delightful little treats marry the warmth of traditional pumpkin pie with the joyful whimsy of cookies, creating a bite-sized festival of flavor that evokes memories of family gatherings and sweet celebrations.
Why make this recipe?
Perhaps you want to impress your friends at a fall gathering, or maybe you’re simply craving a taste of the season. These Pumpkin Pie Cookies are not only simple to make but also offer a nostalgic twist that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!). Their buttery dough, filled with spiced pumpkin goodness, is a wonderful way to embrace the spirit of autumn.
How to make Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup pumpkin pie filling
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), filling your kitchen with a sense of anticipation.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, a key step that introduces a delightful sweetness to the dough.
- Add in the vanilla extract, allowing its warm aroma to mingle with the butter and sugar. Mix well to combine.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This is where the magic begins—feel those spices awaken your senses!
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. You want to maintain that buttery texture!
- Shape the dough into small disks and gently place them on a lined baking sheet, formed like tiny pillows waiting for a cozy filling.
- Make an indentation in the center of each disk, like a little nest cradling the heart of your cookie, and fill it with pumpkin pie filling.
- If you’re after a golden finish, brush the edges with a beaten egg—this adds a lovely sheen and extra richness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, filling your home with irresistible autumn scents.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a moment, then transfer them to a wire rack to finish cooling, their sweet aroma still lingering.
How to serve Pumpkin Pie Cookies
These cookies shine on their own but can also be served with a side of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel for an extra indulgent touch. Imagine passing a platter of these gorgeous treats at your next gathering, each cookie inviting conversation and laughter.
How to store Pumpkin Pie Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last about a week—though I doubt they’ll stay around for that long!
Tips to make Pumpkin Pie Cookies
- For an even richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of powdered sugar—this will deepen the sweetness.
- Experiment with spices! Add a pinch of ginger or cloves to the dough for a personalized twist.
- Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best creaming results.
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try adding a handful of chocolate chips or pecans to the dough before baking? These additions provide a delightful textural contrast to the soft pumpkin filling.
FAQs
-
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of pumpkin pie filling?
Yes, just make sure to season your fresh pumpkin with spices and sugar to match the sweetness of the pie filling! -
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. -
What can I serve with Pumpkin Pie Cookies?
These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, pumpkin spice latte, or even a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience.
With every bite of these Pumpkin Pie Cookies, you’ll taste the heart of autumn and the warmth of home. So gather your loved ones, share this recipe, and create memories that will last a lifetime—because nothing brings people together like a warm cookie fresh from the oven. Happy baking!
Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the vanilla extract and mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Shape the dough into small disks and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Make an indentation in the center of each disk and fill it with pumpkin pie filling.
- If desired, brush the edges with a beaten egg.
- Bake for about 15-18 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.