Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies – A Sweet, Seasonal Treat

Introduction

Recipe for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies—a delicious fall-inspired twist on the classic sugar cookie! These cookies are soft, buttery, and infused with warm pumpkin spice flavors, making them perfect for autumn celebrations. Whether you’re baking for a Halloween party, Thanksgiving gathering, or simply craving a sweet seasonal treat, these cookies are sure to impress. With the guidance of Elonore Chef IA, we’ll show you how to bake these irresistible cookies step by step.

Elonore Chef IA’s Tip:

“Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out! This helps the cookies keep their shape during baking and makes them easier to handle.”

Sugar Cookies : A Brief History

Sugar cookies have been a staple in baking for centuries, originating as simple, sweet biscuits in Europe before becoming a classic treat in the United States. Traditionally made with butter, sugar, and flour, these cookies are versatile and can be adapted to various flavors and shapes. The Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookie version celebrates the cozy, warm flavors of fall, incorporating cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove to create a cookie that’s both nostalgic and perfect for the season.

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies : Perfect Occasions

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are perfect for:

• Halloween Treats: Decorate them with spooky icing designs or festive orange and black sprinkles for a fun Halloween-themed snack.
• Thanksgiving Desserts: Serve these cookies alongside pumpkin pie for a sweet addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table.
• Fall Bake Sales: Their seasonal flavor makes them a popular choice for any fall bake sale or fundraising event.
• Cozy Autumn Afternoons: Pair these cookies with a cup of hot tea or coffee on a chilly day for a comforting snack.

Customize these cookies with your favorite icing designs or add a touch of color with fall-themed sprinkles.

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) 🧈
• 1 cup granulated sugar 🍬
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree 🎃
• 1 large egg 🥚
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌿
• 3 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 🧂
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 🧂
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice 🍂 (a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter 🧈 and granulated sugar 🍬 together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a soft, tender cookie texture.

2. Add the Wet Ingredients

Mix in the pumpkin puree 🎃, egg 🥚, and vanilla extract 🌿 until fully incorporated. The pumpkin puree not only adds flavor but also keeps the cookies moist and soft.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour 🌾, baking powder 🧂, salt 🧂, and pumpkin spice 🍂. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

4. Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking and makes them easier to roll out.

5. Roll Out and Cut the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

6. Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Benefits

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies offer the comforting flavors of fall in a sweet treat. While they are primarily an indulgence, using pumpkin puree 🎃 introduces a small amount of vitamin A and fiber. If you’re looking to make them healthier, consider reducing the sugar content slightly or using whole wheat flour for extra fiber. These cookies are a delightful way to enjoy the warmth of autumn spices in a simple, homemade treat.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Cooking

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Essential for creaming the butter and sugar together to achieve the right texture.
• Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough evenly before cutting into shapes.
• Cookie Cutters: Choose seasonal designs like pumpkins, leaves, or ghosts for a fun Halloween theme.
• Baking Sheet and Parchment Paper: To ensure even baking and prevent sticking.

Health Considerations and Precautions

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix to make these cookies gluten-free.
• Lower-Sugar Option: Reduce the sugar content by using 3/4 cup instead of 1 cup, or replace with a sugar substitute.
• Allergy Considerations: Make sure to check all ingredient labels if you’re serving to guests with dietary restrictions, especially for gluten or dairy.

FAQ

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You can also freeze the dough for up to a month.

2. How do I store the cookies after baking?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.

3. Can I customize the spices?

Of course! If you prefer a more cinnamon-forward flavor, add an extra teaspoon of cinnamon. You can also experiment with cardamom or allspice for a unique twist.

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of autumn. Soft, buttery, and flavored with warm spices, they are perfect for any fall occasion. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to tag us with #Recipesify! For more festive treats, check out our Apple Cider Donut Holes Recipe for another sweet seasonal snack.