Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies
These Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With their soft and chewy texture, these cookies are made using wholesome ingredients like almond flour and pumpkin spice, making them ideal for various occasions such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, and holiday gatherings. Top them with cream cheese icing for an extra touch of sweetness without the sugar!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Healthy: These cookies are sugar-free, making them a guilt-free indulgence!
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up these treats in no time.
- Perfect for Fall: The combination of pumpkin and spices brings out the cozy flavors of autumn in every bite.
- Versatile Topping: Enjoy them plain or elevate your cookie game with creamy icing for added flavor.
- Great for Everyone: Suitable for those looking for low-carb or keto-friendly dessert options.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making these Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or standing mixer
- Baking sheet
- Silicone baking mat
- Cookie scoop
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to blend ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Hand mixer or standing mixer: These tools make it easy to cream butter and sweeteners quickly, saving you time and effort.
- Silicone baking mat: Using this mat helps prevent cookies from sticking and promotes even baking.
- Cooling rack: A cooling rack ensures proper airflow around the cookies, helping them firm up perfectly.
Ingredients
These Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies are soft and chewy, made with pumpkin spice, almond flour, and topped with cream cheese icing or frosting. This sweet and sugar-free dessert treat is perfect for fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the holidays.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened at room temperature)
- 1/3 cup sweetener
- 1/3 cup brown sweetener
- 1/2 cup 100% pureed pumpkin
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- 2 1/2 cups blanched almond flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (See Notes for how to make your own)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 teaspoon powdered sweetener (Confectioner’s)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
How to Make Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sweeteners
In a mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter, sweetener, and brown sweetener using a hand mixer or standing mixer until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Now add:
1. The pureed pumpkin,
2. The egg,
3. The vanilla extract.
Beat until the mixture is creamy.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl:
1. Mix together the almond flour, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Carefully add:
1. The dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
2. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing as this can lead to dry cookies.
Step 6: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a sheet pan or cookie sheet with a silicone baking mat to prevent over-browning.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands:
1. Form balls of dough about 1½ tablespoons each. The dough will be wet; wet hands will help shape it easily.
Step 8: Flatten the Cookies
Place the balls on the prepared baking mat:
1. Gently flatten each cookie using the palm of your hand.
Step 9: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for:
10–13 minutes. Look for soft cookies that are golden at the edges but still slightly underbaked in the center.
Step 10: Cool on Baking Mat
Remove from oven:
1. Let cool on the silicone baking mat for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Step 11: Final Cool Down
Allow cookies to cool on a cooling rack for another:
15 minutes before icing gently if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies
These Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy night in. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Cream Cheese Icing
- Spread a generous layer of cream cheese icing on each cookie for a rich, creamy contrast to the pumpkin flavor.
Pair with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite hot beverage. The warmth of coffee or tea complements the spices beautifully.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a platter with seasonal fruits like apples and pears. This adds a fresh touch and balances the sweetness.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- For an indulgent treat, use two cookies to sandwich your favorite sugar-free ice cream. This makes for a delightful dessert option.
Gift Them to Friends
- Package the cookies in decorative boxes to share with friends and family during the holidays. It’s a thoughtful, sweet gesture without the added sugar.
Serve at Holiday Gatherings
- Present these cookies at Thanksgiving or Halloween parties as a healthier dessert option that everyone can enjoy guilt-free.
How to Perfect Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies
To achieve the best results with your Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies, consider these simple tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Measure Almond Flour Carefully: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies; use a kitchen scale if possible.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined to keep cookies soft and chewy.
- Check for Doneness: Look for soft edges with golden brown color; they will firm up as they cool.
- Cool Properly: Allow cookies to cool completely on a rack before icing to prevent melting.
- Experiment with Spices: Adjust cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preference for more warmth or flavor depth.
Best Side Dishes for Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies
Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies can be enjoyed with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:
- Spiced Apple Slices: Warm apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon make a perfect light pairing.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with berries and nuts for a refreshing contrast.
- Nut Medley: A mix of almonds, walnuts, and pecans adds crunch and healthy fats.
- Pumpkin Soup: Serve alongside creamy pumpkin soup for a themed meal that celebrates autumn flavors.
- Cheese Board: Create a cheese board featuring sharp cheeses that balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
- Chia Seed Pudding: A light chia pudding flavored with vanilla or pumpkin spice offers a nutritious side option.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts bring savory notes that pair well with sweet cookies.
- Dark Chocolate Pieces: A few pieces of dark chocolate provide a rich, decadent addition that many will enjoy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking the perfect Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to dry cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients, especially butter, can affect the texture. Always soften your butter at room temperature before mixing.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Too much almond flour can make cookies dense. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level the flour for accuracy.
- Skipping cooling time: Moving cookies too soon can cause them to crumble. Allow them to cool properly on the baking mat and cooling rack.
- Underbaking or overbaking: Baking time is crucial; removing cookies too early or too late affects texture. Aim for a soft appearance with golden edges.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking, to prevent sticking.
Freezing Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies.
What are Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies?
Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies are delightful treats made without traditional sugars, using sweeteners instead. They’re perfect for those avoiding sugar but still wanting something sweet.
How do I customize Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies?
You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture. Spices like nutmeg or ginger can also enhance the pumpkin flavor.
Can I use different sweeteners in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute your preferred sugar alternatives such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener while keeping measurements similar.
Are these cookies suitable for diabetics?
Absolutely! These Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies are low in carbs and free from sugar, making them a suitable option for diabetics.
How do I store leftover Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for longer shelf life.
Final Thoughts
These Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies are not only soft and chewy but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s fall gatherings, Halloween treats, or festive celebrations, they satisfy cravings without the guilt. Customize them with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this delightful dessert!
Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the flavors of fall with these delightful Sugar Free Pumpkin Cookies. Soft, chewy, and brimming with the comforting essence of pumpkin and spices, these cookies are perfect for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or any autumn celebration. Made with wholesome almond flour and sweetened with sugar alternatives, they provide a guilt-free treat that can be enjoyed by everyone, including those following low-carb or keto diets. For an extra touch, elevate these cookies with a rich cream cheese icing that complements their warm flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/3 cup sweetener
- 1/3 cup brown sweetener
- 1/2 cup pureed pumpkin
- 1 egg
- 2 1/2 cups blanched almond flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 oz cream cheese (softened) for icing
- 1 teaspoon powdered sweetener (for icing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla (for icing)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sweeteners until fluffy.
- Mix in pureed pumpkin, egg, and vanilla extract until creamy.
- In another bowl, combine almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture; stir until just combined.
- Shape dough into balls (about 1½ tablespoons each), flatten slightly on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–13 minutes until golden at edges but soft in center.
- Cool on the baking mat before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
