Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Perfectly sweet and chewy, Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are an excellent treat for any occasion. With their delightful crisp edges, buttery flavor, and a warm cinnamon sugar coating, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends. Whether for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy evenings at home, these snickerdoodles bring the essence of fall right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for bakers of all skill levels. You’ll have delicious cookies ready in no time!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a unique taste that stands out from traditional snickerdoodles.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy the chewy center with a crisp outer edge, making every bite satisfying.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for various occasions, from holiday parties to everyday snacks.
• Great for Sharing: With 18 servings, they’re ideal for sharing with friends or family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, gather a few essential tools that will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer: These tools make creaming ingredients easy and ensure everything is well combined.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is essential for even cooking and preventing cookie mishaps.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: These prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup after baking.

Ingredients

Perfectly sweet and chewy snickerdoodles with a delightfully crisp, buttery edge, rolled in cinnamon and sugar, these snickerdoodles are absolute perfection!

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/2 cup salted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup margarine (softened)
• 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
• 2 tbsp light corn syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Dry Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 heaping tsp pumpkin pie spice

How to Make Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set it aside.

Step 2: Cream Ingredients Together

In the bowl of a stand mixer or using an electric hand mixer:
1. Cream together the softened margarine, butter, and granulated sugar until well combined.
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in:
– The egg,
– Pumpkin puree,
– Light corn syrup,
– Vanilla extract.

Mix until everything is fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add:
– All-purpose flour,
– Baking soda,
– Salt.

Mix until a dough forms.

Step 5: Portion the Dough

Portion out the dough into approximately 2 1/2 tbsp portions:
– Use two scoops from a #50 scoop for each cookie.
– Roll each portion into a ball and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, combine:
– The remaining granulated sugar,
– Pumpkin pie spice mixture.

Step 7: Coat Dough Balls

Roll each ball of dough into the cinnamon-sugar mixture:
– Press gently to ensure an even coating.
– Repeat this step with all remaining dough balls.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Place in preheated oven:
– Bake at 350° F for about 11-13 minutes.
– Watch for flattening and golden brown edges.

Step 9: Cool Cookies

Allow cookies to cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Store Cookies

Store your Pumpkin Snickerdoodles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them with a cup of coffee, here are some fun serving suggestions.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. The warmth of the beverage enhances the cinnamon and pumpkin flavors.

As Dessert with Ice Cream

• Serve warm Pumpkin Snickerdoodles with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The combination of hot and cold creates an indulgent dessert experience.

Gift Packaging

• Package these cookies in a decorative tin or cookie box. They make perfect gifts for friends and family during the fall season.

At Parties

• Arrange the cookies on a platter for parties or gatherings. Their festive appearance will be a hit among guests, adding to the cheerful atmosphere.

With Milk

• Enjoy these cookies with a glass of cold milk. The creaminess of the milk complements the chewy texture and flavors of the snickerdoodles perfectly.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check that your baking ingredients, particularly baking soda and spices, are fresh for the best flavor and texture.

• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and gives you chewier cookies.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preference. More spice can enhance the autumn flavor profile.

• Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can last up to three days at room temperature or longer if frozen.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

When enjoying Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, consider pairing them with some delicious side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink infused with spices that match well with pumpkin flavors for a comforting experience.

2. Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: A sweet dip made from cream cheese that pairs beautifully with the chewy texture of snickerdoodles.

3. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: A creamy soup that balances sweetness and adds warmth to your dessert spread.

4. Maple Pecan Salad: A light salad featuring maple vinaigrette and pecans; its crunch contrasts nicely with soft cookies.

5. Caramelized Pears: Sweet pears cooked in butter and sugar add an elegant touch alongside your snickerdoodles.

6. Chocolate Fondue: A fun dessert option where you can dip pieces of cookie into rich chocolate, creating an exciting combination of flavors.

7. Cinnamon Sugar Pita Chips: These crispy chips offer a similar flavor profile to snickerdoodles while providing a satisfying crunch.

8. Pumpkin Spice Latte: An iconic fall beverage that harmonizes well with any pumpkin-flavored treat, enhancing the overall experience.

Enjoy your delectable Pumpkin Snickerdoodles alongside these delightful sides!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pumpkin Snickerdoodles can be a delightful treat, but many home bakers make common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always use softened butter and room-temperature eggs for the best texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make cookies dry. Use a spoon to fluff the flour before scooping it into your measuring cup.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading. If your dough is too soft, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Overbaking the cookies: Watch them closely! Overbaking can lead to tough cookies. Remove them from the oven when they’re just set and slightly golden at the edges.
• Neglecting the cinnamon sugar coating: The cinnamon-sugar mixture adds flavor. Make sure to roll each cookie ball generously in it before baking for that classic snickerdoodle taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pumpkin Snickerdoodles in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

• Freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer, keeping their delicious flavor intact.

Reheating Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a soft, chewy bite.
• Stovetop: Warm them on a skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pumpkin Snickerdoodles:

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

You can, but it will add extra spices and sweetness. Adjust sugar levels accordingly.

How can I make my Pumpkin Snickerdoodles chewier?

To achieve a chewier texture, try chilling the dough longer before baking or adding an extra egg yolk.

What spices pair well with Pumpkin Snickerdoodles?

Cinnamon and nutmeg are great choices, but you can also experiment with ginger or allspice for added warmth.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges should be golden brown, and they will look slightly underbaked in the center. They continue cooking while cooling.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to suit any fall occasion. Whether you enjoy them with coffee or share them at gatherings, they bring warmth and joy with every bite. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist!