Name: Healthy Pumpkin Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; 1 cup rolled oats or oat flour; 1/2 cup almond flour or whole wheat flour; 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey; 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter; 1 egg or flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips or raisins (optional); 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are quick to whip up, naturally sweetened, and packed with fiber and nutrients from the pumpkin. They’re made without refined flour or processed sugars, and they’re easy to adapt to gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan diets. Perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or a cozy fall dessert, you’ll love how satisfying and nourishing they are.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Canned pumpkin puree
Rolled oats or oat flour
Almond flour or whole wheat flour
Maple syrup or honey
Coconut oil or unsalted butter (melted)
Egg or flax egg
Vanilla extract
Baking soda
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Ground ginger
Salt
Dark chocolate chips or raisins (optional)
Chopped nuts (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, mix the oats or oat flour, almond flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture and stir until just incorporated.
Fold in chocolate chips, raisins, or nuts if using.
Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly.
Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are firm to the touch.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 18 cookies.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 22 minutes

Variations

Vegan Version: Use a flax egg and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend.
Low Sugar: Reduce maple syrup and add mashed banana or applesauce for natural sweetness.
Protein Boost: Add a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder to the batter.
Spice it Up: Add extra pumpkin pie spice for a bolder flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
To freeze, place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or let them thaw at room temperature.

FAQs

Are these cookies really healthy?

Yes, they’re made with whole ingredients like pumpkin, oats, and natural sweeteners, with no refined sugar or flour.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, just make sure it’s well-pureed and not too watery. Drain excess moisture if needed.

How do I make them vegan?

Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Can I substitute the almond flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or oat flour, but the texture may vary slightly.

Can I make these nut-free?

Yes, just use oat flour or whole wheat flour and omit any added nuts.

Why are my cookies too soft or mushy?

They may need a little more baking time, or the pumpkin may have had excess moisture. Try blotting the puree slightly before mixing.

Do these cookies spread while baking?

Not much—flatten them slightly before baking if you prefer a thinner cookie.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Try dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, shredded coconut, or chopped dates.

Are these good for kids?

Yes! They’re soft, lightly sweetened, and full of healthy ingredients—great for toddlers and kids alike.

How long do they stay fresh?

They stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

Conclusion

Healthy Pumpkin Cookies are the perfect fall snack or dessert—soft, spiced, and made with nourishing ingredients. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re a wholesome option that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt. Keep a batch on hand for cozy cravings, and you’ll be glad you did.