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 18, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time.
Deliciously Spiced: The blend of pumpkin pie spices offers a comforting flavor that evokes the essence of autumn.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to holiday parties.
Chewy Texture: These cookies are melt-in-your-mouth soft, making them irresistible.
Family-Friendly: A fun baking project that everyone can enjoy together!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure success in your baking adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Cookie scoop or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly without spills.
Whisk: Ideal for combining dry ingredients evenly and aerating your mixture for better texture.
Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even baking and helps prevent sticking.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

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 ensures the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough for a lighter cookie.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg along with the vanilla extract until fully combined. This adds moisture and flavor to your cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until well combined but be careful not to overmix; this could lead to tougher cookies.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Roll the dough into balls about one inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with enough space between each ball to allow for spreading during baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you want them soft but set.

Step 8: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up while maintaining their chewy texture.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies! They’re perfect for sharing or indulging yourself while savoring fall flavors.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

These delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. They can be served in various ways, making them a versatile treat for any occasion.

With Coffee

Pair your cookies with a hot cup of coffee to enhance the warm spices within the cookie.

As a Dessert Platter

Arrange the cookies on a festive platter alongside other seasonal treats for a charming dessert display.

With Ice Cream

Serve warm cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla or pumpkin ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Gift Them

Package the cookies in decorative boxes or tins as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family during the fall season.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Perfecting your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cookies turn out just right every time.

Use room temperature butter: This helps in achieving a light and fluffy texture when creamed with sugar.
Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing until ingredients are just combined prevents tough cookies, ensuring they stay soft and chewy.
Chill the dough: If you have time, refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes helps deepen flavors and makes it easier to handle.
Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center when finished.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

When serving Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options:

Apple Cider: A warm mug of apple cider pairs beautifully with the spices in these cookies, bringing out their flavor.
Pumpkin Soup: A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup offers a savory contrast that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda which balance the sweetness of the cookies nicely.
Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy texture that complements the soft cookies beautifully.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances sweetness with its tartness, making it refreshing.
Hot Chocolate: Rich hot chocolate creates a cozy pairing that enhances the overall indulgence of your dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help ensure your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

Bold Measurement Errors: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the texture and flavor. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups designed for dry ingredients.
Bold Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking. If you have time, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Bold Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can make your cookies tough instead of soft and chewy. Mix just until combined for the best results.
Bold Not Preheating the Oven: Baking without preheating can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent results.
Bold Ignoring Baking Times: Each oven is different; check your cookies a minute or two before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Keep layers of cookies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
For best results, freeze cookies in a single layer and then transfer them to a container once solid.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Bold Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Bold Microwave: Heat one cookie on high for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
Bold Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, flipping carefully until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

How do I make vegan Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies?

You can substitute butter with coconut oil or a plant-based spread, and use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacement.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies?

Yes! Feel free to customize your cookies by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.

What makes Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies chewy?

The combination of softened butter and proper mixing techniques creates that delightful chewy texture. Avoid overmixing!

How should I store my Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them with different spices or mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. Try making these delightful treats today and enjoy their warm autumn flavors with friends and family!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card