As the air turns crisp and leaves begin to tumble, the kitchen becomes my favorite refuge. The smell of warm spices and sweetness dancing together brings me back to a time filled with family gatherings and laughter. That’s where my Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies come into play. This delightful recipe is not only a quick triumph for busy home chefs, but it also transforms a simple can of pumpkin puree into soft, puffy cookies that create smiles with every bite. Whipping these up takes just 25 minutes, making it a perfect treat to share or savor solo. The added touch of rolling them in powdered sugar creates a charming contrast, making each one look as inviting as it tastes. Ready to embrace the flavors of fall? Discover how to bring these irresistible cookies to your table and experience the joy they’ll bring to your next gathering!
Why are Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies irresistible?
Warm, Spicy Embrace: Each bite of these cookies is like a cozy hug, filled with the comforting spices of pumpkin pie.
Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, you’ll have fresh cookies ready to enjoy—perfect for those busy afternoons!
Delightful Texture: The soft and chewy centers, paired with a powdered sugar coating, make for a fun contrast with every bite.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether at a gathering or just a casual snack, these cookies are sure to win over hearts and taste buds.
Versatile Indulgence: Enjoy them with coffee, tea, or even as a delightful dessert after dinner!
Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies Ingredients
• Discover the simple components that create these unforgettable treats!
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – creates the perfect chewy texture for your cookies.
- Pumpkin pie spice – adds that warm, autumn flair you crave in fall baking.
- Baking powder – ensures your cookies rise beautifully for that classic crinkle effect.
- Baking soda – enhances the cookie's texture while keeping it light and fluffy.
- Salt – balances the sweetness, making every bite a delight.
- Vegetable oil – provides moisture, keeping the cookies melt-in-your-mouth soft.
- Brown sugar – adds a hint of caramel richness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
- Granulated sugar – gives the cookies a sweet crispness that contrasts the soft inside.
- Beaten egg – binds everything together while contributing to the cookie's soft texture.
- Pumpkin puree – is the star ingredient, giving these cookies their delicious flavor and moisture.
- Vanilla extract – infuses warmth and depth, enhancing every delicious bite.
For Rolling
- Granulated sugar – coats the cookies for a lovely sweetness and a slight crunch.
- Powdered sugar – creates that iconic snowy finish, making your Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies irresistible!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies bake evenly and develop that perfect texture. While the oven warms, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, which will help your cookies bake nicely without sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This mixture brings together the warm flavors and provides the structure for your cookies. Set this bowl aside as you prepare to mix the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, blend together 1 cup of vegetable oil, ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 beaten egg, 1 cup of pumpkin puree, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk or electric mixer to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. This luscious mixture is the heart of your Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies, bringing moisture and flavor.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix; the dough should be sticky but well-distributed. This process forms the dough that will yield soft and puffy cookies. If a few lumps remain, that’s perfectly fine; they'll bake out.
Step 5: Prepare for Rolling
Next, set up two bowls: one with granulated sugar for rolling and the other filled with powdered sugar. The dual sugar layers create that signature crinkle effect while adding sweetness and visual appeal to your Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies. Ensure you have plenty of space to work as you form the cookie dough balls.
Step 6: Roll the Dough Balls
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the sticky dough and roll them into balls. Place each ball in the bowl of granulated sugar first, then coat it in powdered sugar until fully covered. This step is not only fun but enhances the cookies' delightful texture and look, making each bite inviting.
Step 7: Arrange on Baking Sheets
Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows your Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies to spread and rise without merging into one another. The beautiful cracks will form as they bake, adding to their charm.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 9 to 10 minutes. Watch for the cookies to puff up and develop crackles on top, but don’t let them turn golden; they should remain soft and tender. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, creating a sense of anticipation.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 3 minutes. This slight cooling period helps them set while remaining soft. Afterward, transfer the Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely, ensuring they are perfect for indulging or sharing.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies
As you indulge in these sweet, spiced delights, think about how to elevate your dessert experience into a full culinary celebration.
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Hot Apple Cider: The warm spice of apple cider perfectly complements the flavors in your cookies, making each sip a cozy contrast.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds a delightful creaminess that pairs beautifully with the soft texture of the cookies.
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Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse creates a decadent balance to the lightly spiced sweetness of the cookies, offering an indulgent dessert duo.
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Cinnamon Ice Cream: Picture a scoop of cinnamon ice cream melting over the warm cookies. The cold, creamy contrast enhances the entire experience.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Pairing the cookies with this fan-favorite beverage ties in the pumpkin spice theme, enveloping you in comforting fall flavors.
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Chai Tea: Spiced chai tea serves as a soothing drink that mirrors the warmth of the cookies and enhances their delightful pumpkin flavor.
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Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites add a rich creaminess, providing a delightful contrast to your soft, crinkly treats.
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Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers brighten up your dessert spread, adding a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the cookies' sweetness.
These delightful pairings will have your guests raving and make every moment a tasty memory!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies
Don’t Overmix Dough: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to keep your cookies soft and prevent them from becoming tough—this is crucial for your Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies!
Perfect Baking Time: Bake until puffed but not golden. Over-baking can lead to dry cookies, so keep an eye on them in the last moments.
Rolling in Sugar: For the best visual appeal and texture, coat each dough ball thoroughly in both sugars. This ensures that signature crinkle effect and adds sweetness.
Cooling Setup: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring them. This helps maintain their soft texture and prevents breakage.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll stay soft and delicious for several days, ready for you to enjoy anytime!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients as instructed and storing the dough tightly covered in the refrigerator. This will maintain its lovely moisture and flavor. The rolled dough balls can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just space them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply bake them directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you'll have fresh, delightful cookies available whenever you need a sweet treat without the fuss!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies
Room Temperature: Store Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just be sure to use a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer for about 2 hours, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy cookies from the freezer, thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds!
Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookies and make them truly your own!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these cookies without gluten.
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Vegan: Replace the egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce and use a plant-based oil to create a vegan-friendly version. It’s a delicious alternative that keeps the cookies moist.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a warm kick that complements the pumpkin spice beautifully. Your taste buds will thank you for this unexpected twist!
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Nutty Addition: Stir in ½ cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added texture and a rich, earthy flavor that enhances each bite.
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Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to bring a sweet and rich depth to your Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies. The chocolate adds a delightful contrast to the spices.
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Dried Fruit: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins for bursts of fruity sweetness. It not only adds flavor but also a chewy texture that delights the palate.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte Inspired: Mix in a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder for a caffeinated kick that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin flavors.
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Candied Ginger: Add ¼ cup of finely chopped candied ginger to introduce a zesty and spicy flavor, transforming your cookies into a gourmet treat. It's a delightful surprise with each bite!
Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices. Look for canned pumpkin that lists 100% pumpkin on the label. If you want to use fresh pumpkin, roast it first, then puree it until smooth for an extra vibrant flavor.
How should I store leftover Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you can’t eat them that quickly, you can extend their shelf life by refrigerating them for up to 5 days. Just ensure they are sealed well to keep them moist!
Can I freeze Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies?
Very! To freeze your cookies, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 2 hours. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag or an airtight container, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a cozy treat.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough seems too sticky to form balls, don’t fret! This can happen sometimes, especially when measuring ingredients. You can chill the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes, which makes it easier to handle. Alternatively, a sprinkle of flour on your hands can also help you roll the dough without sticking.
Are Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies safe for pets?
No, Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies are not safe for pets due to ingredients like sugar and baking soda. Always keep human treats out of reach of your furry friends! If you want to share pumpkin with your pet, plain, cooked pumpkin is a great option in moderation.
How can I ensure my cookies have the perfect crinkle effect?
To achieve that lovely crinkle top, make sure to roll your cookie dough balls well in both granulated and powdered sugar. Also, keep an eye on your baking time; remove the cookies from the oven while they're still puffy and just cracking on top but not yet golden. This will help create that signature look!
Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, blend together the vegetable oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, beaten egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Prepare two bowls: one with granulated sugar for rolling, and the other with powdered sugar.
- Scoop portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Coat each ball first in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar.
- Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 9 to 10 minutes until puffed and crackled but not golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 3 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
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