Fall is the perfect time to enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin in your baking.
As the leaves change color and temperatures drop, nothing welcomes the season quite like the aroma of pumpkin cookies fresh from the oven. These treats capture the essence of autumn with their mix of pumpkin puree and seasonal spices.
You’ll discover a variety of pumpkin cookie styles to satisfy any craving, from soft and cakey classics to chewy treats with brown butter notes.
Whether you’re looking for simple recipes that remind you of childhood favorites or want to try something new with additions like chocolate chips, cream cheese, or maple glaze, pumpkin cookies offer endless possibilities for your fall baking adventures.
No need to stick with ordinary pumpkin pie when these delicious cookies can showcase the beloved flavor in so many delightful ways.
1. Chewy Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter
Chewy pumpkin cookies with brown butter offer a perfect fall treat with rich, complex flavors. The browning process gives the butter a nutty, caramelized taste that enhances the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
These cookies combine pure pumpkin puree with warm spices and often include maple syrup for extra depth. The brown butter and brown sugar create that desirable chewy texture that’s slightly crisp around the edges.
You can easily make these at home by first browning your butter, then mixing it with pumpkin puree, sugars, and maple syrup.
The result is a fragrant, autumn-inspired cookie that balances chewiness with rich flavor.
2. Libby’s® Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Libby’s® Soft Pumpkin Cookies are a classic fall treat that has delighted families since the 1980s. These cookies are known for their soft, cake-like texture and warm spice flavor.
The original recipe calls for simple ingredients including flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and of course, Libby’s® pumpkin puree. Warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves give these cookies their signature fall flavor.
You can easily make these at home by creaming butter with sugars, adding pumpkin, eggs, and vanilla, then mixing in the dry ingredients.
These cookies bake up fluffy and soft, perfect for sharing at autumn gatherings.
3. Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
These pumpkin spice cookies with cream cheese frosting combine warm fall flavors with a tangy, sweet topping. They’re consistently rated among the most popular pumpkin cookie recipes.
The cookies themselves are soft and pillowy, almost melting in your mouth with each bite. The pumpkin gives them a moist texture while the spices create that classic autumn flavor you crave.
What makes these cookies special is the cream cheese frosting. It provides the perfect balance to the spiced cookie base. The slight tanginess cuts through the sweetness for an irresistible combination.
You’ll find these cookies easy to make, and they yield about 24-32 cookies depending on your preferred size.
4. Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Cookies
Old-fashioned pumpkin cookies bring comfort and nostalgia to your fall baking. These treats are incredibly soft with a cake-like texture that melts in your mouth.
The recipe typically combines flour, baking soda, baking powder, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. You’ll cream together butter and sugar before adding pumpkin puree for that classic autumn flavor.
These cookies don’t require chilling the dough, making them a quick and easy option. When baked at 350°F, they develop a tender crumb and rich pumpkin taste.
Top with a simple glaze or cream cheese frosting for extra sweetness.
They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends during the fall season.
5. Fudgy Pumpkin Cookies
Fudgy pumpkin cookies offer a delicious twist on traditional pumpkin treats. They combine the rich, earthy flavor of pumpkin with the decadent texture of fudge.
The secret to these cookies is using less moisture from the pumpkin puree. This helps create that dense, fudgy interior rather than a cakey texture that often happens with pumpkin cookies.
Add chocolate chips or chunks to enhance the fudgy quality. Brown butter and brown sugar contribute depth of flavor that complements the pumpkin spices perfectly.
These cookies stay soft for days and develop even deeper flavor after baking. You can dust them with powdered sugar for an extra special touch.
6. Classic Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are a delightful fall twist on the traditional snickerdoodle cookie. They combine real pumpkin puree with warm fall spices, creating a soft, chewy treat.
The pumpkin puree adds moisture and a beautiful color to these cookies. You’ll find they’re coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture that gives them their classic snickerdoodle appeal.
These cookies can be baked as traditional drop cookies or as bar cookies. Some bakers even top the bar version with cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.
You can expect a cookie that melts in your mouth with every bite. The balance of pumpkin flavor and warm spices makes these perfect for autumn gatherings.
7. Spiced Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
These cookies offer the perfect balance of pumpkin flavor and warm spices. They have a wonderful chewy texture that makes them stand out from typical cakey pumpkin cookies.
The combination of oatmeal and pumpkin creates a hearty cookie that’s both satisfying and flavorful. The oats add a pleasant chewiness while the pumpkin keeps them moist.
You’ll love how these cookies are crisp around the edges but remain soft in the middle. The pumpkin spice flavor comes through beautifully, making them a perfect fall treat.
For an extra touch, you can add mini chocolate chips to create a delicious sweet contrast to the warm spices.
8. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies combine the warm spices of fall with sweet chocolate morsels. These treats are typically chewy and moist thanks to the addition of pumpkin puree.
You can make these cookies without needing to chill the dough first, making them a quick option for busy days. Brown butter adds depth to the flavor profile, complementing the pumpkin spice perfectly.
Most recipes yield about three dozen cookies, giving you plenty to share. These cookies are often egg-free, relying on the pumpkin for moisture and binding.
Try adding semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best flavor balance with the pumpkin and spices.
9. Crispy Pumpkin Spice Cookies
Crispy pumpkin cookies offer a delightful alternative to the more common chewy varieties. These cookies have a satisfying snap that pairs perfectly with the warm fall spices.
The key to achieving that perfect crisp texture is using less moisture in your dough. You can reduce the amount of pumpkin puree and make sure to blot it with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Brown butter adds a wonderful nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin spice beautifully. For extra crunch, try adding toffee bits or chopped nuts to your cookie dough.
Bake these cookies until the edges are golden brown for that ideal crispy texture that makes them perfect for dunking in coffee or milk.
10. Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cookies
Gluten-free pumpkin cookies offer all the fall flavors without the gluten. These treats feature a soft, fluffy texture with crisp edges and chewy centers.
You can easily make these cookies at home with gluten-free flour blends. They’re known for being moist yet light, with warm pumpkin spice flavors throughout.
Many recipes include chocolate chips for extra sweetness. Some versions can be made dairy-free as well, making them perfect for those with multiple dietary restrictions.
These cookies maintain the perfect balance of pumpkin flavor and spice. They’re ideal for fall gatherings or anytime you’re craving seasonal flavors without gluten.
11. Vegan Pumpkin Cookies
Vegan pumpkin cookies offer all the fall flavors you love without any animal products. These cookies typically feature a soft, chewy texture with crisp edges that make them irresistible.
Most recipes use simple ingredients like pumpkin puree, flour, sugar, and warm spices. The pumpkin itself acts as a natural egg replacer, creating moisture and binding the dough.
Many versions include a maple glaze or cream cheese-style frosting for extra sweetness. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing during autumn gatherings.
These cookies freeze well, making them ideal for preparing ahead of time. Try them with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy fall treat.
12. Pumpkin and Ginger Molasses Cookies
These soft, chewy cookies blend the warm flavors of fall into one irresistible treat. The combination of pumpkin and molasses creates a moist texture that’s hard to resist.
With spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, these cookies have a rich flavor profile that’s perfect for autumn. The pumpkin adds moisture while the molasses gives them a deep, distinctive taste.
Many recipes include a sugar coating that creates a delightful crackled appearance when baked. These cookies start soft and gradually become more “snap-like” if left out, giving you flexibility in texture preference.
You’ll find these cookies are a hit at holiday gatherings and make your home smell amazing while baking.
13. Pumpkin Peanut Butter Cookies
Pumpkin peanut butter cookies combine two beloved flavors into one delicious treat. These cookies are easy to make with simple ingredients like pumpkin puree, peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla.
They’re soft on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior. The pumpkin adds moistness while the peanut butter creates a rich, nutty flavor that complements the fall spices perfectly.
You can make these as breakfast cookies for a quick morning option or as a sweet treat any time of day. Some recipes include chocolate chunks for extra indulgence, giving you the perfect balance of flavors.
14. Pumpkin Chai Tea Cookies
Pumpkin chai tea cookies combine two fall favorites into one irresistible treat. These cookies feature the warm, spicy notes of chai tea mixed with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin.
The cookies are soft and chewy with a perfect balance of spices. Most recipes include cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves for that authentic chai flavor.
You can enhance these cookies with a simple vanilla glaze or roll them in powdered sugar for a crinkle effect. Some versions even include white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
These cookies stay soft for days if stored properly in an airtight container. They’re perfect for autumn gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of tea.
15. Pumpkin Sandwich Cookies
Pumpkin sandwich cookies offer a delicious twist on traditional cookies by combining soft pumpkin cookies with flavorful fillings. These treats feature two pumpkin-spiced cookies with a creamy center.
Several filling options work well, including cinnamon cream cheese frosting, maple cream cheese, or chocolate buttercream. The combination of pumpkin and maple creates an especially winning fall flavor profile.
You can make these cookies with regular flour or try gluten-free versions. The cookies themselves often include brown sugar, brown butter, and warm spices that complement the pumpkin flavor.
These sandwich cookies make perfect autumn treats for gatherings or special occasions. Their rich flavors and attractive presentation make them a standout option in your fall baking lineup.
16. Low-Sugar Pumpkin Cookies
These low-sugar pumpkin cookies offer all the flavor with less sweetness. Most recipes reduce sugar while maintaining taste through natural pumpkin sweetness and spices.
You can make these cookies using whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Some versions contain no butter or oil, making them lighter than traditional cookies.
Pumpkin pie spice adds warmth and flavor without adding calories. These cookies typically stay soft and chewy despite having less sugar.
Try using a touch of honey as a natural sweetener for depth of flavor. Kids and adults alike enjoy these healthier treats that still deliver that pumpkin cookie satisfaction.
17. Pumpkin Shortbread Cookies
Pumpkin shortbread cookies blend the buttery texture of classic shortbread with warm pumpkin flavors. They’re simple to make and require no chilling time.
To make these cookies, mix butter, pumpkin puree, sugar, and spices in a medium bowl. Then fold in the flour gradually until a dough forms.
Bake for 14-18 minutes until the edges turn lightly brown. For a festive touch, immediately place a candy pumpkin in the center of each warm cookie after baking.
These cookies have a firm, crumbly texture with a mild sweetness. They’re perfect for fall gatherings or Halloween parties.
18. Pumpkin Pecan Cookies
Pumpkin Pecan Cookies offer a delightful fall treat with their soft, cake-like texture and warm spice flavors. These cookies combine the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the nutty crunch of pecans.
Made with canned pumpkin, butter, and seasonal spices, these cookies capture the essence of autumn in every bite. The brown sugar and pumpkin create a moist, tender cookie that stays soft for days.
You can enhance these cookies with a sweet icing drizzle or leave them plain to let the pumpkin and pecan flavors shine. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea on a cool fall day.
19. Pumpkin and Cranberry Cookies
Pumpkin and cranberry cookies blend fall flavors in a delicious treat. The tartness of cranberries perfectly balances the sweet, earthy pumpkin taste.
You can use fresh or dried cranberries depending on your preference. Fresh cranberries provide more tartness, while dried ones add a chewy texture.
Most recipes include warm spices like cinnamon and ginger that complement the pumpkin. Some versions also add walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
These cookies typically have a soft texture due to the moisture in the pumpkin. You can make them healthier by using whole grains and reducing sugar.
20. Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies offer a perfect fall treat with their blend of pumpkin and white chocolate. Unlike many pumpkin cookies that turn out cake-like, these maintain a chewy texture with slightly crispy edges.
Brown butter adds depth to the flavor profile, while pumpkin pie spice brings warmth. The white chocolate chips create pockets of creamy sweetness that contrast nicely with the spiced dough.
You can make these cookies in about 30 minutes. The recipe typically calls for all-purpose flour, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, and white chocolate chips. They’re ideal for autumn gatherings or as a comforting snack with coffee or tea.
21. Pumpkin Walnut Cookies
Pumpkin walnut cookies offer a delightful blend of autumn flavors with a satisfying crunch. These nostalgic treats combine the rich taste of pumpkin with the nutty texture of walnuts.
To make these cookies, you’ll cream butter with sugar until fluffy, then mix in eggs, pumpkin, vanilla, and sometimes lemon zest for brightness. The dry ingredients include flour and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Walnuts add a wonderful texture contrast to the soft cookie base. You can chop them coarsely for bigger chunks or finely for a more subtle crunch throughout.
These cookies bake up with a cakey texture that’s perfect for fall gatherings or afternoon snacks with tea or coffee.
Understanding Pumpkin in Baking
Pumpkin adds moisture, flavor, and nutritional value to baked goods. It creates a unique texture that’s different from other fruit or vegetable additions in cookies.
The Role of Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin puree functions as both a fat and moisture contributor in baking. When you add pumpkin to cookie dough, it creates a softer, cake-like texture because of its high water content.
Unlike applesauce or banana, pumpkin has a more subtle flavor that pairs wonderfully with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These spices enhance the natural earthy sweetness of pumpkin.
When baking with pumpkin, you’ll notice it can sometimes replace some fat (like butter or oil) in recipes. This substitution works because pumpkin contains natural pectin that helps bind ingredients together.
For the best results in pumpkin cookies, use pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling. The pie filling contains added sugars and spices that can throw off your recipe’s balance.
Nutritional Benefits of Pumpkin
Pumpkin brings impressive nutritional advantages to your cookies. It’s packed with beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A, supporting eye health and immune function.
A quarter cup of pumpkin puree contains only about 20 calories while delivering fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. This makes it an excellent way to boost nutrition without adding significant calories.
Pumpkin seeds (sometimes included in heartier cookie recipes) provide protein, magnesium, and zinc. They add a pleasant crunch and nutritional boost to your baked goods.
The fiber in pumpkin helps create a satisfying cookie that keeps you fuller longer than traditional cookies might. This makes pumpkin cookies a more substantial snack option.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cookies
Making delicious pumpkin cookies requires attention to a few key details that can transform good cookies into great ones. The right ingredients and techniques will help you achieve the ideal texture and flavor balance.
Achieving the Right Texture
For chewy pumpkin cookies, combine brown butter with brown sugar and a touch of honey. These ingredients create that perfect soft-yet-chewy texture that many bakers strive for.
Don’t overmix your cookie dough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid tough cookies.
Pumpkin adds moisture to cookies, which can make them cakey. If you prefer chewier cookies, try blotting the pumpkin puree with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Consider your flour-to-pumpkin ratio carefully. Too much flour creates dry cookies, while too much pumpkin might make them too soft.
For cakey, soft cookies, use more leavening agents like baking soda. The search results mention that no chilling is required for some recipes, saving you time.
Balancing Spices and Flavors
The classic pumpkin spice blend includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Adjust these to your taste preference. But cinnamon should typically be the dominant spice.
Fresh spices make a significant difference. Replace your ground spices yearly for the most vibrant flavor in your cookies.
Brown sugar adds depth and moisture to pumpkin cookies. It complements the earthy pumpkin flavor better than white sugar alone.
Consider adding vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor profile without competing with the pumpkin.
For extra richness, try adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries. These add texture and complementary flavors to your pumpkin cookies.
