Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, especially in the fall. These cookies combine the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices, creating a soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating Halloween, or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, this easy recipe will impress friends and family alike. The unique blend of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice sets these snickerdoodles apart from traditional versions, making them a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious cookies without any fuss.
• Perfectly Soft Texture: The combination of pumpkin puree and butter ensures that these snickerdoodles stay soft and chewy.
• Versatile Flavor: Ideal for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations, these cookies pair wonderfully with coffee or tea.
• Kid-Friendly: Children will love rolling the dough in cinnamon sugar, making it a fun baking activity.
• Batch Friendly: This recipe yields 24 cookies, perfect for sharing or freezing for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients efficiently.
• Electric mixer: Helps to achieve a smooth batter quickly and easily.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

Ingredients

The best and easiest Pumpkin Snickerdoodles cookie recipe made with pumpkin pie spice and pumpkin puree.

For the Cookies

• 1/2 cup salted butter (slightly softened)
• 1 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 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 all spice
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger

For the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

• 2 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoon cinnamon

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Together Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and slightly softened butter until well combined.

Step 3: Add Egg and Pumpkin Puree

Add in the egg and pumpkin puree into the creamed mixture. Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add in the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until a dough forms.

Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of sugar with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon to create your cinnamon sugar mixture.

Step 6: Shape Dough Balls

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Coat each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture. To prevent sticking, consider wetting your hands while rolling. If necessary, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Place the coated dough balls on a parchment-lined cookie sheet with space between each ball. Gently press down on each ball to flatten slightly. Bake for 10-13 minutes until they appear matte on top.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Remove from oven and allow cooling on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to finish setting. Enjoy your freshly baked Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season. Here are some creative ways to serve these cookies that will impress your guests and elevate your dessert table.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a comforting experience.
• Hot Chocolate: The sweetness of hot chocolate complements the spices in the snickerdoodles perfectly.
• Chai Tea: Enjoying these cookies with a spiced chai tea enhances their pumpkin flavor.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cheesecakes: Add mini cheesecakes to your platter for creamy contrast.
• Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad can brighten up your dessert spread.
• Brownies: Rich brownies create a delicious variety alongside the soft snickerdoodles.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Thanksgiving Feast: Serve them as a sweet addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table.
• Christmas Parties: These cookies make festive gifts when packaged nicely for friends and family.

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How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

To ensure your Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Slightly softened butter is crucial for achieving the right dough consistency.
• Chill the Dough if Needed: If the dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before rolling.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on them; remove when they’re matte on top to maintain softness.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice quantities based on your flavor preference for a personal touch.
• Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and freshness longer.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

While Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are delightful on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp adds a fruity crunch that pairs well with the soft texture of snickerdoodles.
2. Pecan Pie: The nutty flavor of pecan pie complements the spices in the cookies beautifully.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a classic dessert combination that’s hard to resist.
4. Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes: Keeping with the pumpkin theme, these cupcakes offer a fun twist and additional sweetness.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over snickerdoodles for an indulgent treat that matches their flavors.
6. Chocolate Fondue: Dip cookie pieces into warm chocolate fondue for an interactive and delicious dessert option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, avoiding common mistakes can make all the difference in achieving the perfect cookie.

• Using too much flour: This can lead to dry cookies. Always measure flour correctly by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can result in overly sticky dough. If your dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before rolling.
• Overbaking the cookies: Overbaking can make your Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles tough instead of soft. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they’re just set and matte on top.
• Not using fresh spices: Using old or stale spices can dull the flavor of your cookies. Make sure your pumpkin pie spice is fresh for maximum taste.
• Skipping the cinnamon sugar coating: This adds a delightful sweetness and texture. Don’t skip this step; roll each dough ball in the mixture thoroughly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5 minutes. This helps restore their softness.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

Using pumpkin pie filling will alter the flavor, as it’s typically sweetened and spiced. Stick with pumpkin puree for best results.

How do I make my Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles softer?

Ensure you don’t overbake them; they should be soft when taken out of the oven. Adding a bit more pumpkin puree can also help maintain moisture.

What if I don’t have cream of tartar?

You can substitute with baking powder (1/2 teaspoon of baking powder plus 1/4 teaspoon of vinegar) if you’re out of cream of tartar.

How do I store leftover Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I add chocolate chips to my Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips add a delicious touch and complement the pumpkin flavor nicely.

Final Thoughts

Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize them with nuts, chocolate chips, or even different spices to suit your taste. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy these cozy treats all season long!