The Best Homemade Pumpkin Cookies Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These pumpkin cookies are perfect for any occasion, combining warmth and sweetness in every bite. You’ll love how easy they are to make, even if you’re not a baking pro.
- Soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth, making them irresistible.
- Warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, for that autumn feel.
- Simple ingredients you probably already have, so you can whip them up anytime.
Recipe

Pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for autumn gatherings or anytime you crave a soft, spiced dessert. These cookies are easy to make and packed with warm flavors that evoke the essence of fall.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy. Add pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes:
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Make sure pumpkin puree is not pumpkin pie filling, as they are different.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: Makes about 24 cookies
Nutrition
Pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat, especially during fall. Here’s a breakdown of their nutritional value per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 85mg |
| Total Carbs | 15g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Protein | 2g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving these pumpkin cookies with a thick layer of cream cheese frosting—it adds a tangy sweetness that balances the spices perfectly. If you’re looking for a drink, warm spiced cider is my go-to, as its cozy flavors complement the cookies just right. Trust me, this combo feels like fall in every bite and sip!
Cream Cheese Frosting Pairing
When you’ve got pumpkin cookies topped with cream cheese frosting, it’s hard to imagine anything could make them better—but pairing them with the right treats can take your dessert game to the next level. The tangy-sweet flavor combination of cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with spiced pecans or a drizzle of caramel. For texture contrast, try crunchy gingersnaps or crisp apple slices. The frosting consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape but smooth enough to spread easily. I love serving these with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it melts just enough to blend with the frosting, creating a dreamy bite.
Warm Spiced Cider Match
Though pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are already a cozy treat, they’re even better alongside a mug of warm spiced cider. This seasonal pairing feels like autumn in a cup, with cinnamon, cloves, and apple flavors blending perfectly. I love sipping cider while nibbling on a cookie—it’s like wrapping up in a blanket on a crisp fall day. The warm drink complements the cookies’ spices, making every bite feel extra special. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this combo brings comfort and joy. It’s a simple way to celebrate autumn flavors and create lasting memories.