Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy way to embrace the flavors of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich taste of pumpkin with the comforting warmth of spices. They’re chewy, soft, and topped with a crunchy brown sugar streusel, making them perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying during a quiet evening at home. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these cookies will surely bring smiles all around!

What makes this recipe extra special is not just the delicious flavor but also how easy it is to whip up a batch. You’ll love the inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started on these scrumptious Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy Preparation: You don’t need any fancy techniques; just mix, scoop, and bake!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cookies, especially when they’re packed with pumpkin goodness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them ahead of time and store them for whenever you need a sweet treat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, comforting flavor that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple and wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Get ready to create something wonderful!

For the Cookies

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (165 g) brown sugar, packed
• 3/4 cup (94 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup (122 g) canned pumpkin puree (Libby’s canned pumpkin works best)
• 1 3/4 cups (219 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (220 g) brown sugar, packed
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature

For the Icing

• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (130 g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-4 tsp whole milk

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with some fun variations to make these cookies your own.

• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a pleasing crunch and extra flavor.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: A handful of chocolate chips can take these cookies to another level of indulgence.
• Use Different Spices: If you love experimenting, try adding cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.
• Frosting Fun: Instead of drizzling icing on top, consider spreading cream cheese frosting for an even richer taste.

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is important because it helps incorporate air into the dough which gives your cookies that lovely chewy texture.

Step 2: Mix in Pumpkin Puree

Add in the canned pumpkin puree along with egg yolks and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. The pumpkin adds moisture and richness to your cookies while infusing them with its delicious flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet mixture while mixing gently. It’s crucial not to overmix here; just combine until you see no more flour streaks.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!

Step 5: Scoop Cookie Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Leave some space between each cookie so they have room to spread while baking.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place the cookie sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 11 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Letting them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them allows them to finish setting up beautifully.

Step 7: Drizzle Icing

While your cookies cool down completely on wire racks, prepare the icing by whisking together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Drizzle this sweet topping over your cooled cookies for an irresistible finish!

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies! They’re perfect with a warm cup of coffee or tea.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Baking is all about the little details, and with these tips, you’ll create the most delightful pumpkin coffee cake cookies that your friends and family will adore!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Having your butter and egg yolks at room temperature helps them mix more easily and creates a smoother batter, leading to a chewier texture in your cookies.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Gently folding in your dry ingredients prevents gluten from developing too much, ensuring that your cookies remain soft and chewy rather than tough.

• Chill the dough: If you have time, let your dough chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps solidify the butter which makes for thicker cookies that won’t spread too much while baking.

• Check for doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.

• Store properly: To maintain freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for several days!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

These pumpkin coffee cake cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home. Here are some ideas to make them even more special!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overpowering the flavors.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A dusting of cinnamon not only enhances the autumnal flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation.
• Chopped nuts: Scatter some finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the icing for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and grapes balances the sweetness of the cookies with refreshing acidity.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea pairs beautifully with these cookies, making for a soothing afternoon treat.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful side dish that complements the richness of the cookies.
• Spiced cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider alongside your cookies to enhance that cozy fall vibe everyone loves!

Now you’re all set to enjoy these scrumptious pumpkin coffee cake cookies! Whether it’s a festive gathering or a simple afternoon snack, these delightful treats are sure to bring joy to every bite. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week or save some for special occasions. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, consider placing parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months. Don’t forget to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the frozen cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave each cookie for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about these delightful cookies:

Can I make Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies without butter?

Yes! You can substitute unsalted butter with equal parts of coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a vegan version.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies are done?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree your fresh pumpkin until smooth. Canned pumpkin is convenient, but fresh adds a nice touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies as much as I do! They’re a delightful way to embrace the cozy flavors of fall while satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you share them with friends or keep them all to yourself, these cookies are bound to brighten your day. Happy baking!