Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies offer a warm and comforting taste that’s perfect for fall and beyond. In this recipe, I show you how to make these delightful treats from scratch. The cookies have a soft, cake-like center paired with a crisp, snowy powdered sugar coating. With just the right balance of pumpkin, spices, and sweetness, these cookies will quickly become a favorite.
Overview
These cookies are a celebration of seasonal ingredients. They combine pure pumpkin puree with warm spices to create a treat that’s both tender and visually appealing. You’ll appreciate the contrast between the dark cookie and its crisp, white exterior—a design that makes these cookies ideal for holiday platters, special gifts, or simply enjoying with your favorite hot beverage. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying pumpkin treats for the first time, this recipe is clear, engaging, and easy to follow.
Ingredients
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role. Here is a thorough breakdown:
- Pumpkin Puree:
- Use 1 cup of 100% pure pumpkin puree.
- This provides moisture and an authentic pumpkin flavor.
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Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains extra spices and sugar.
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Sugars:
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar gives the cookies structure and a crisp coating.
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1/2 cup light brown sugar ensures a soft and chewy texture along with a hint of molasses.
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Unsalted Butter:
- 1/2 cup (melted) butter adds richness.
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Melt before mixing to create a smooth, uniform dough.
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Egg:
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One large egg helps bind the dough, providing moisture and structure.
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Vanilla Extract:
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1 teaspoon of vanilla extract adds a subtle aromatic note that complements the spices and pumpkin.
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All-Purpose Flour:
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2 cups of all-purpose flour serve as the sturdy base for the cookies.
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Leavening Agents:
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1 teaspoon baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda work together to help the cookies rise and achieve a light, crinkly texture.
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Salt:
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1/2 teaspoon salt enhances the overall flavors.
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Pumpkin Pie Spice:
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2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice blend classic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
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Powdered Sugar:
- Approximately 1 cup, used solely for the coating, creating the characteristic crinkles and adding an extra touch of sweetness.
Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these steps for perfect Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies:
1. Prepare the Dough
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Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir the ingredients until you achieve a smooth consistency. -
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices. -
Combine:
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies light and tender.
2. Chill the Dough
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours.
- Chilling the dough improves the texture and makes it easier to shape into balls.
3. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line two baking sheets with silicone baking mats or parchment paper.
- Proper preparation prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
4. Shape and Coat the Cookies
- Scoop the dough into small portions, roughly 1 1/2 tablespoons each.
- Roll each portion into a smooth ball using your hands.
- Coating Process:
- First, roll the ball in a bit of granulated sugar.
- Then, roll it in a generous layer of powdered sugar.
- This two-step coat creates the signature crinkled look after baking.
5. Bake the Cookies
- Place the coated dough balls 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. This spacing allows room for the cookies to expand.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes.
- The edges should be set.
- The centers may appear slightly underbaked, which ensures the cookies remain soft.
- Remove the cookies once done. Their continued cooking on the baking sheet will complete the process.
6. Cooling and Serving
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes after removing from the oven.
- Then, transfer them to a wire rack to finish cooling.
- Once cooled, enjoy them with your favorite hot beverage like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies
These tips help ensure you achieve consistent results every time you bake:
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Use 100% Pumpkin Puree:
Always opt for pure pumpkin puree. Using pumpkin pie filling can add unwanted extra sugars and spices, affecting the balance of flavors. -
Room-Temperature Egg:
Before incorporating, let your egg sit out to reach room temperature. This helps with even mixing and better dough consistency. -
Accurate Flour Measurement:
Use the spoon-and-level method when measuring flour. Avoid packing the flour into the measuring cup, which can lead to a denser cookie. -
Chill Thoroughly:
Don’t skip the chilling step. Refrigerating the dough not only helps with handling but also prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. -
Experiment with Additions:
For variations, consider adding mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar can also enhance the flavor profile.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
There are many ways to personalize your Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies:
- Alternative Coatings:
If you prefer a different look or flavor, replace some or all of the powdered sugar with cinnamon sugar. - Gluten-Free Option:
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to cater to dietary restrictions without compromising on taste. - Decadent Fillings:
Add a small dollop of cream cheese filling in the center before baking. This twist creates a delightful burst of tangy flavor with every bite. - Spice Adjustments:
Experiment with the spice levels. Increase the pumpkin pie spice if you love robust flavors or try a pinch of cardamom for an exotic twist.
Serving Ideas:
– Serve the cookies alongside a warm mug of apple cider to evoke a comforting autumn ambiance.
– Pack them in a pretty box, dusted lightly with extra powdered sugar, as a gift during the holiday season.
– Enjoy them as an after-dinner treat, paired with a cup of herbal tea for a soothing end to your meal.
Storage Guidelines
To keep your Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
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Room Temperature:
Place the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tight to maintain moisture. -
Refrigerator:
For longer storage, refrigerate the cookies in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks. Let them reach room temperature before serving. -
Freezing:
Allow the cookies to cool completely.
Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Frozen cookies can be stored for up to 3 months.
Thaw them at room temperature or warm gently in a 325°F (163°C) oven for 2-3 minutes.
Techniques and Troubleshooting
Even experienced bakers encounter challenges. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:
Common Issues
- Cookies Spreading Too Much:
- Ensure your dough is well-chilled before shaping.
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Verify that your oven is fully preheated.
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Cookies Becoming Too Hard:
- Be careful not to overbake them.
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Removing them when the centers still look slightly underdone helps maintain a soft texture.
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Uneven Coating:
- Roll each cookie thoroughly in powdered sugar.
- You can also lightly tap off any excess sugar before baking for a uniform finish.
Helpful Techniques
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Dough Preparation:
Mixing wet and dry ingredients separately is key. It prevents lumps and helps distribute the spices evenly. -
Sugar Coating:
The double coating process—first in granulated sugar then in powdered sugar—creates a textural contrast that defines these cookies. - Cooling:
Allow a brief cooling period on the baking sheet, as cookies continue to set after being removed from the oven.
Why These Cookies Work
Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies stand out for several reasons:
- Balance:
The delicate balance between sweet and spice is maintained by carefully selected ingredients. - Contrast:
The dark, rich base contrasts dramatically with the white powdered sugar coating. - Texture:
They achieve a perfect mix of soft, cake-like centers with a mildly crisp exterior. - Versatility:
They are suitable for various occasions—whether as a fun seasonal treat or as a decadent dessert option year-round.
Baking Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies is a rewarding experience. From selecting the best ingredients to mastering your technique, every step contributes to creating a delightful treat. I encourage you to embrace the process, experiment with variations, and most importantly, share these tasty cookies with friends and family.
These cookies are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a warm reminder of fall’s cozy charms. Enjoy the creative process and the joy that comes with baking something uniquely yours. Their inviting aroma, stunning appearance, and satisfying flavor make every bite a reminder of the simple pleasures in life.
Happy baking, and may these Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies become a cherished part of your seasonal traditions!
Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies
These pumpkin crinkle cookies are soft and chewy. They are full of flavor! The sugar topping gives them a fun, crinkled appearance that everyone loves.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour. Add the baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Include the pumpkin pie spice and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir just until combined. Do not overmix. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours or until firm enough to roll into balls.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets. Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Scoop out 1 1/2 tablespoon portions of chilled dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar. Then generously coat each ball in powdered sugar.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes. Bake until the cookies are puffed and set around the edges. The centers will look slightly underbaked. That is fine. They will continue to set as they cool.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or apple cider. Enjoy!
