Oh, where do I begin with these delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies? As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving all things pumpkin, and these cookies are a perfect answer to that craving! They combine that warm, cozy flavor of pumpkin spice with the sweetness of a coffee cake, making them ideal for any fall gathering or a simple afternoon snack while curled up with a book.
Every time I bake these cookies, I’m transported to my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with the warm scent of spices and sweet goodness. I can still picture her standing there, apron tied tightly, with flour dusting her nose, cheerfully sharing stories while we lovingly mixed all the ingredients together. Let me tell you, these cookies not only capture that nostalgic feeling but are also incredibly easy to whip up!
What’s in Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies?
Butter: The foundation of our cookie dough, butter adds richness and a delightful texture. I always opt for unsalted butter for better control over the flavors.
Brown Sugar: This sugar brings depth and a slight chewiness to the cookies. Using dark brown sugar amps up that molasses flavor, which I absolutely adore!
Granulated Sugar: Balances the flavors and helps create that lovely, sweet crust on the cookies.
Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient! It not only gives the cookies their gorgeous color but also keeps them moist. I always prefer the canned variety for consistency, but homemade is a great option if you have the time.
Eggs: Two large eggs serve as a binding agent, helping to bring everything together beautifully.
Vanilla Extract: Just a teaspoon adds a lovely aromatic essence that enhances the overall flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour provides the structure. Make sure to spoon and level it off to avoid dense cookies!
Baking Soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise slightly, giving them a nice fluffy texture.
Cinnamon: Ah, the warm hug of autumn! Cinnamon adds that perfect spiced flavor to tie the pumpkin in.
Salt: Just a pinch; it elevates the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
Nuts: I love folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor, but you can totally skip them if you’re not a nut fan!
Is Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies Good for You?
These delightful cookies can be a healthier option compared to many desserts, thanks to the presence of pumpkin.
Pumpkin Puree: Packed with vitamins A and C, this superfood is low in calories and high in fiber, which aids in digestion. I mean, who knew indulging could have benefits?
Butter and Sugar: While delicious, it’s important to enjoy these cookies in moderation. They have a fair amount of sugar and fat, so perhaps save them for special occasions or treat yourself after a meal.
Adding nuts, like pecans or walnuts, not only enhances the texture but also incorporates healthy fats and protein into the mix, which is a bonus!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar (dark preferred)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
*Yields about 24 cookies*
How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it’s smooth and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add in the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, being careful to not overmix. Just stir until you see no more flour!
6. If you’re using nuts, gently fold those into the mixture now.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave some space between them to spread out.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Delicious Variations and Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delicious as is, but let’s get creative! You can add chocolate chips for that extra sweet touch or even drizzle some cream cheese glaze over them for a true coffee cake experience. They pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or a spiced chai latte, making them perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy evenings in.
You might even consider gifting a batch to a friend or neighbor, because what’s better than sharing that warm, pumpkin goodness?
I hope you try these Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies soon—it’s a recipe that fills both the home and heart with warmth. If you do, let me know how they turn out! Happy baking!
