Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are the perfect treat for fall! With their chewy texture and warm spices, these cookies not only capture the essence of autumn but also make a delightful addition to any gathering. Ideal for cozy evenings or festive celebrations, these sweet bites will quickly become a seasonal favorite. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, ensuring that you can enjoy homemade goodness without the fuss.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect even for beginner bakers.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and spices creates a rich, comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual get-together, these cookies are sure to please everyone.
Soft and Chewy Texture: Unlike many cookies that can turn out crisp, these snickerdoodles are soft and chewy, giving them a melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Versatile Recipe: You can easily adjust the spices or add chocolate chips for a unique twist!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper
Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
Electric mixer or whisk: These tools quickly cream butter and sugar together, ensuring a smooth dough.
Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

The best and easiest Pumpkin Snickerdoodles cookie recipe made with pumpkin pie spice and pumpkin puree.

For the Dough

1/2 cup salted butter (slightly softened)
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 egg
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon all spice
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ginger
2 tablespoons sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Together Sugar and Butter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and slightly soft butter until light and fluffy. Avoid using fully softened butter as this can make your dough too sticky. Once combined, add in the egg and pumpkin puree. Mix until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add in the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.

Step 4: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of cinnamon with 2 tablespoons of sugar. This mixture will give your cookies that classic snickerdoodle flavor.

Step 5: Shape Dough Balls

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Coat each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture by rolling it directly in the bowl. If you find the dough too sticky to handle, wet your hands while rolling or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before proceeding.

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

Place the coated dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet with enough space between them. Lightly press down on each ball to help them spread evenly while baking. Bake for about 10-13 minutes until they appear matte on top. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are delightful on their own, but they can be elevated with a few serving suggestions. Whether you choose to pair them with a drink or add a sweet dip, these cookies will surely impress your guests.

With Coffee or Tea

Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the spices in the cookies perfectly.
Herbal Tea: A warm herbal tea can enhance the cozy vibes of pumpkin snickerdoodles.

With Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm spices of the cookies.
Pumpkin Ice Cream: For pumpkin lovers, this is a match made in dessert heaven!

As a Dessert Platter

Cookie Platter: Arrange your soft pumpkin snickerdoodles on a platter with other fall-themed cookies for an inviting display.
Fruit Slices: Add slices of apple or pear for a fresh contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.

Dipped in Frosting

Cream Cheese Frosting: A light layer of cream cheese frosting can add an extra touch of sweetness.
Chocolate Ganache: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of ganache makes for a decadent treat.

How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

For those looking to achieve cookie perfection, follow these tips. With just a few adjustments, you can ensure your Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles turn out amazing every time.

Use Slightly Soft Butter: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted. This helps create the right dough texture.
Chill the Dough if Sticky: If your dough is too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before rolling.
Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon and level method when measuring flour to avoid dense cookies.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should look slightly underbaked when you take them out for that soft texture.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust or add spices like cloves for more flavor depth.
Cool on Baking Sheet: Letting them cool on the baking sheet allows them to firm up without becoming hard.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

When serving Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, consider pairing them with side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some delightful options:

Apple Cider: Warm apple cider brings out the fall flavors and complements the spices in the cookies.
Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses balances the sweetness and adds variety to your dessert spread.
Charcuterie Board: Include nuts and dried fruits for added texture and flavor alongside your cookies.
Pumpkin Soup: A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup serves as a warm and comforting contrast to the cookies.
Pecan Pie: The nutty flavor of pecan pie pairs wonderfully with pumpkin snickerdoodles for an indulgent dessert experience.
Caramel Dip: Provide caramel sauce as a dip for those who want an extra sweet touch alongside their cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the perfect cookie.

Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can result in uneven mixing. Always let your butter soften slightly and use room temperature eggs for the best texture.
Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much after adding flour can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and tender.
Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down, leading to too much flour. Use a spoon to fluff the flour before measuring for accuracy.
Skipping the Cinnamon Sugar Coating: This is essential for that classic snickerdoodle flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds sweetness and spice!
Ignoring Stickiness: If your dough is too sticky, don’t hesitate to refrigerate it for a bit. This makes rolling easier and helps your cookies hold their shape.
Not Cooling on the Baking Sheet: Allowing cookies to cool on the sheet helps them set properly. Don’t transfer them too soon or they might break apart.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350° F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for better texture.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin; however, ensure it is well-pureed and not watery. Drain excess liquid if necessary.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This will help firm it up and make it easier to handle.

How do I store leftover Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles by adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are not only easy to make but also bring warmth and joy during fall. These delightful cookies are perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, making them even more irresistible!

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Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are the quintessential fall treat, combining the warm spices of autumn with a soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth. These cookies are easy to make, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. With the rich flavor of pumpkin puree and a delightful cinnamon sugar coating, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or cozy night in. Whether you enjoy them with coffee, tea, or as part of an impressive dessert platter, these cookies will quickly become your go-to fall favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup salted butter (slightly softened)
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 egg
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
For coating: 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, plus additional spices

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
In a mixing bowl, cream together sugar and slightly softened butter until fluffy. Add egg and pumpkin puree; mix until smooth.
Combine flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice into the mixture until fully incorporated.
In a small bowl, mix cinnamon and sugar for the coating.
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and coat in cinnamon sugar mixture.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly press down each ball.
Bake for 10-13 minutes until cookies appear matte on top; cool before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American