Name: Pumpkin-Spice Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: PT-488300H53M29S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling); 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies bring all the cozy fall vibes in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a Halloween party, Thanksgiving dessert table, or just want to enjoy the flavors of autumn, this recipe delivers. The comforting blend of pumpkin pie spices pairs perfectly with the tender texture of sugar cookies, creating a delightful treat that’s festive yet simple to make.

Ingredients

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

All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Ground ginger
Ground cloves
Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
Egg
Vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the pumpkin purée, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10–12 minutes per batch
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: About 35–40 minutes

Variations

Glazed Finish: Add a simple powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting for an extra sweet touch.
Chai-Spiced Twist: Replace the pumpkin pie spices with chai spice blend for a different warming flavor.
Pumpkin-Chocolate Chip: Stir in mini chocolate chips for a rich and gooey upgrade.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for texture.
Maple Flavor: Replace vanilla extract with maple extract for a deeper autumnal flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
To enjoy again, let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

What kind of pumpkin should I use?

Use 100% pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before scooping.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then store the frozen dough balls in a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to help retain moisture.

Can I use store-bought pumpkin pie spice?

Yes, replace the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves with about 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can substitute brown sugar with more granulated sugar, though the flavor and moisture may slightly differ.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Do these cookies need to be chilled before baking?

Not necessarily, but chilling can help the flavors meld and prevent spreading.

Can I make them vegan?

Yes, use a plant-based butter, flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water), and ensure the sugar is vegan.

Are these cookies overly sweet?

No, they strike a nice balance between sweet and spiced, making them enjoyable without being overwhelming.

Conclusion

Pumpkin-Spice Sugar Cookies are a delightful fall favorite that combine the best of both sugar cookie and pumpkin spice worlds. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, they’re a cozy treat you’ll find yourself craving all season long. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your autumn baking repertoire.