Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies: Amazing Fall Recipe Guide

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Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Pumpkin coffee cake cookies combine the best of autumn flavors with the convenience of handheld treats. These delightful cookies capture the essence of traditional coffee cake while incorporating the nutritional benefits of pumpkin puree. Rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants, these cookies offer a healthier twist on classic desserts. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or cozy afternoon treats, they bring warmth and comfort to any occasion.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Nutritious pumpkin puree provides vitamin A, fiber, and potassium while keeping cookies moist and flavorful
  • Budget-friendly recipe costs under $8 to make, serving multiple people with pantry staples
  • Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, and cozy family moments throughout the season
  • Soft, cake-like texture with warm spices creates comfort food satisfaction in cookie form
  • Easy 30-minute recipe requires no special techniques, making it perfect for beginner bakers

Why This Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies Recipe Works

This recipe succeeds because it balances moisture and structure perfectly. The pumpkin puree keeps cookies tender while providing natural sweetness and nutrients. The combination of brown and granulated sugars creates depth of flavor and ideal texture.

The spice blend of cinnamon and nutmeg enhances the pumpkin’s natural taste without overpowering it. Room temperature ingredients ensure proper mixing and even baking. The moderate oven temperature allows cookies to cook through while maintaining their soft, cake-like consistency.

pumpkin coffee cake cookies food photograph 1

What You’ll Need for Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Ingredients

IngredientQuantity (Approx)Purpose / Notes
All-purpose flour2 cupsProvides structure and base for cookies
Canned pumpkin puree1 cupAdds moisture, flavor, and nutritional value
Granulated sugar1/2 cupSweetens and helps with browning
Brown sugar1/2 cupAdds molasses flavor and moisture
Baking powder2 tspCreates lift and light texture
Ground cinnamon1 tspProvides warm spice flavor
Ground nutmeg1/2 tspEnhances autumn spice profile
Large eggs2 (room temperature)Binds ingredients and adds richness
Unsalted butter1/2 cup (softened)Provides flavor and tender texture
Vanilla extract1 tspEnhances overall flavor profile
Chopped pecans/walnuts1/2 cup (optional)Adds crunch and nutty flavor

Tools

ToolPurpose
Large mixing bowlsSeparate wet and dry ingredients for proper mixing
Electric mixerCreams butter and sugars to fluffy consistency
WhiskCombines dry ingredients evenly
Rubber spatulaGently folds ingredients without overmixing
Cookie scoopCreates uniform cookie sizes for even baking
Baking sheetsProvides surface for baking cookies
Parchment paperPrevents sticking and ensures easy removal
Cooling racksAllows proper air circulation for cooling

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

StepInstructions
Step 1: PreparationPreheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper
Step 2: Mix Dry IngredientsIn a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt
Step 3: Cream Butter and SugarsIn another bowl, cream softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until fluffy
Step 4: Add Wet IngredientsAdd eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract
Step 5: Combine MixturesGradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined
Step 6: Shape and BakeScoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space to spread
Step 7: Bake and CoolBake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown around edges. Cool on racks before serving

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and smoother batter consistency
  • Don’t overmix the dough after adding flour to prevent tough, dense cookies
  • Chill dough for 30 minutes if it seems too soft for easier handling and shaping
  • Test doneness by gently pressing cookie centers – they should spring back lightly
  • Store cookies in airtight containers with parchment paper between layers to maintain freshness

Serving and Storage Tips for Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Serving Tips

These cookies pair beautifully with hot coffee, spiced tea, or warm apple cider. Serve them at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. For special occasions, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with simple glaze.

Consider serving alongside other autumn treats like keto cloud cake for variety. They’re perfect for potluck dinners, bake sales, or afternoon tea parties.

Store cookies in airtight containers at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze cookies for up to three months. Layer between parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their soft texture.

pumpkin coffee cake cookies food photograph 2

Mistakes to Avoid while making Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Overmixing the dough creates tough, dense cookies instead of tender ones. Mix just until ingredients combine. Using cold ingredients prevents proper creaming and results in uneven texture.

Don’t skip the parchment paper – cookies may stick and break when removing. Overbaking creates dry, crumbly cookies rather than soft, cake-like ones. Watch for golden edges as your doneness indicator.

Avoid using pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree, as it contains added spices and sweeteners that alter the recipe balance. Measure ingredients accurately for consistent results every time.

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You Must Know

  • Pure pumpkin puree differs from pumpkin pie filling – always check labels to avoid recipe disasters
  • Cookies continue cooking on hot pans after removal, so transfer to cooling racks promptly
  • Dough consistency should be soft but not sticky – adjust with small amounts of flour if needed
  • These cookies freeze beautifully for up to three months when properly wrapped and stored

Suggestions for Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Enhance these cookies with cream cheese glaze or cinnamon sugar coating. Add mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries for extra flavor dimensions. Try substituting half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.

Create variations by adding orange zest, maple extract, or cardamom. For inspiration, check out this pumpkin skillet coffee cake or this pumpkin spice crumb cake.

Pair with savory dishes like ultimate chicken casserole for balanced meals. The cookies complement rich, savory flavors beautifully and provide a satisfying sweet ending to hearty dinners.

pumpkin coffee cake cookies food photograph 3

FAQs:


Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Roast pumpkin until tender, then puree until smooth. Make sure to drain excess moisture to match canned pumpkin consistency.


How do I know when pumpkin coffee cake cookies are done baking?

Look for golden brown edges and centers that spring back lightly when touched. They should appear set but still soft. Overbaking creates dry, crumbly cookies.


Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Wrap dough tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen dough in refrigerator before baking.


What's the best way to store these cookies?

Store in airtight containers at room temperature for up to one week. Layer between parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their soft, cake-like texture.


Can I substitute the butter with oil?

Yes, substitute with equal amounts of neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious and moist.


Conclusion

Pumpkin coffee cake cookies offer the perfect combination of nutrition, flavor, and convenience. With their soft texture, warm spices, and budget-friendly ingredients, they’re ideal for any autumn gathering or cozy moment at home.

This simple recipe delivers consistent results while providing the health benefits of pumpkin and the comfort of homemade treats. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, these cookies bring warmth and satisfaction to every bite. Try them with your favorite hot beverage and enjoy the flavors of fall in every delicious cookie.

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Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies


  • Author: Jennie Graham
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 to make, serving 1x

Description

Soft and flavorful pumpkin coffee cake cookies that combine the warm spices of fall with the tender texture of coffee cake in a delightful cookie form.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans/walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  • Step 1: Preparation – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper
  • Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt
  • Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars – In another bowl, cream softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until fluffy
  • Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients – Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract
  • Step 5: Combine Mixtures – Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined
  • Step 6: Shape and Bake – Scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space to spread
  • Step 7: Bake and Cool – Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown around edges. Cool on racks before serving

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and smoother batter consistency
  • Don’t overmix the dough after adding flour to prevent tough, dense cookies
  • Chill dough for 30 minutes if it seems too soft for easier handling and shaping
  • Store cookies in airtight containers with parchment paper between layers to maintain freshness
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 145 calories
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: pumpkin coffee cake cookies, fall cookies, pumpkin spice, autumn baking, soft cookies, pumpkin dessert

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