Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

If you’re looking for the perfect cookie to cozy up with on a chilly evening, you’ve come to the right place! These Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. With their warm spices and soft texture, they bring all the delightful fall flavors into one bite. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a cozy night in, or just because, these cookies will surely bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe so special is how it combines the classic snickerdoodle with the rich taste of pumpkin. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy pumpkin season without any fuss. Plus, your kitchen will smell heavenly while these are baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love these cookies. They’re soft, sweet, and full of flavor!
• Flexible Ingredients: You can easily adjust spices or add mix-ins to suit your taste.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them today and enjoy fresh cookies throughout the week or freeze some for later!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies fit right in at parties, holiday gatherings, or as an everyday treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that making Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles is simple with these wholesome ingredients. They’re easy to gather from your pantry and make for a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy!

For the Cookies:

• 1/2 cup salted butter (slightly softened, see Note 1)
• 1 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (See note 2 below)
• 3 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger

For the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:

• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Substitute Spices: Experiment with different spices based on what you have on hand—add a bit of cardamom for warmth!
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap out regular flour for a gluten-free blend if you’re catering to dietary needs.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350° F. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the slightly softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. It’s important not to use fully softened butter here; otherwise, your dough might become too sticky!

Step 3: Mix In Pumpkin and Egg

Add the egg and pumpkin puree into your creamed mixture. Mix until everything is smooth. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor—making these cookies delightfully soft!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice into the wet mixture. Stir until a dough forms. This step is crucial as it helps incorporate all those lovely spices evenly throughout.

Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon to create your cinnamon sugar mixture. This will give your cookies that signature sweet coating we all love about snickerdoodles!

Step 6: Form Cookies

Roll the dough into one-inch balls and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. If you find your hands getting sticky while rolling out the dough, try wetting them slightly—it makes things so much easier!

Step 7: Bake

Place your coated dough balls on a parchment-lined cookie sheet with enough space between each ball. Lightly press down on each one before popping them in the oven. Bake for about 10-13 minutes until they look matte on top. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet—this helps them set beautifully.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles! They’re perfect fresh out of the oven or stored away for later indulgence. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Baking these delightful cookies is a breeze, and with a few tips, you can ensure your Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles turn out perfectly every time!

• Use slightly softened butter: This helps achieve the right consistency in your dough. If the butter is too soft, it can make the dough overly sticky and challenging to handle.
• Chill the dough if necessary: If you find the dough too sticky to roll into balls, pop it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to work with and ensuring a better shape while baking.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake! They should be set but still soft in the center. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so aim for that perfect golden color without letting them brown too much.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adapt the spice blend based on your taste preferences. Adding more of your favorite spices can enhance the flavor profile of these cookies and make them uniquely yours!
• Store properly: To keep your cookies soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

These cookies are perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, serving up these Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles will bring warmth and joy to your table.

Garnishes

• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle adds a touch of sweetness that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream provides a rich and creamy contrast to the soft cookies.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: This comforting drink pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavors and adds an extra touch of fall coziness.
• Creamy vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream served alongside warm snickerdoodles creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
• Spiced chai tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea enhance the flavors in these cookies while offering a warm beverage option for your guests.
• Roasted pumpkin seeds: These crunchy snacks provide a savory contrast to the sweet cookies and are perfect for nibbling on during dessert time.

Enjoy every bite and remember, sharing these treats is just as delightful as savoring them yourself! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy weeks or festive gatherings. You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely.
• Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the container!

Reheating

• If you want to enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350° F.
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delicious Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree in Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin puree as long as it’s well-cooked and mashed. Just ensure it’s not too watery; excess moisture can affect the dough’s texture.

How do I know when my Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are done baking?

The cookies should look matte on top and have a slight golden edge. They’ll continue to set while cooling, so be careful not to overbake!

Can I make these Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or use unsweetened applesauce as a binding alternative.

What should I serve with Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles?

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of chai tea or coffee, enhancing their cozy fall flavors.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these delightful Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles as much as I do! They’re not just a treat but a warm hug in cookie form, perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in all by yourself. So grab your mixing bowl, turn on some music, and let the delicious aroma fill your kitchen. Happy baking!