Why Make This Recipe
Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are a delightful twist on the classic snickerdoodle cookie, combining the warmth of cinnamon with the sweet, earthy flavor of pumpkin. This seasonal treat is perfect for fall, especially during holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving, when pumpkin is a star ingredient.
These cookies are soft, chewy, and have an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. It’s an easy recipe that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a little festive cheer to your baking.
Equipment Needed for Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
To make Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, you will need a few basic kitchen tools. These tools will help streamline your baking process and ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.
First, gather a large mixing bowl for combining ingredients. You’ll also need an electric mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon for creaming the butter and sugars. A baking tray lined with parchment paper or a Silpat liner is essential for easy cookie transfers. It’s also helpful to have measuring cups and spoons handy for accurate ingredient measurements.
Finally, a cookie scoop or spoons will help you portion out the dough evenly, while a cooling rack will provide a place for your cookies to cool after baking. With these tools in hand, you’re ready to start your baking adventure.
What You Need to Make Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
- 3/4 cup butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup shortening
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling the dough balls)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for rolling the dough balls)
How to Cook Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Step by Step
First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial as a hot oven ensures your cookies bake evenly and rise properly. Prepare your baking tray by lining it with parchment paper or a Silpat liner to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and shortening. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy spoon to mix them until they are smooth and creamy. This process usually takes a few minutes. After this, add in the granulated sugar and light brown sugar. Cream the mixture together until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the dough, making your cookies soft.
Once your sugar and butter mixture is fluffy, crack in the egg. Add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients together until they are well combined. The pumpkin will add moisture and the distinctive pumpkin flavor that makes these cookies special.
Now it’s time to add the dry ingredients. Slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt into your mixture. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until everything is just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
After the dough is mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for about 10 minutes. This step helps the dough firm up, making it easier to handle. While the dough is chilling, prepare a separate small bowl by mixing the 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with the tablespoon of ground cinnamon. This mixture will be used to roll the dough balls.
Once the dough is ready, take it out of the refrigerator. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion out about 24 dough balls. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until it is well coated. Then, place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Use the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass to lightly flatten each dough ball. This will ensure even baking and help your cookies spread out nicely while keeping a round shape.
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them and avoid over-baking, as you want the edges to be set but the centers to remain soft. When they’re done, remove them from the oven and immediately transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
How to Make Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
Making Pumpkin Snickerdoodles is quite straightforward and perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. It begins with gathering your ingredients and equipment to ensure a smooth baking process.
You’ll mix the wet ingredients first, incorporating the butter and shortening until they’re creamy. Adding sugars, pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract will create a rich and flavorful base for your cookies.
Next, you’ll mix in the dry ingredients carefully to prevent tough cookies. Refrigerating the dough is a key step, making it easier to handle. Rolling the dough in cinnamon sugar adds a lovely finishing touch. Baking the cookies at the right temperature and time ensures a delicious result.
How to Serve Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
Pumpkin Snickerdoodles can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a versatile treat. They are delightful to serve warm right out of the oven, allowing the cinnamon and pumpkin aroma to fill the air.
For a cozy touch, consider serving them alongside a cup of warm apple cider or a pumpkin spice latte. These beverages complement the flavors nicely and enhance the fall baking experience.
These cookies also make for excellent gifts. Pack them in decorative boxes or tins to share with friends and family during the fall season. Whatever the occasion, Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are sure to please everyone!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
A range of beverages pairs well with Pumpkin Snickerdoodles. Coffee, in its many forms, is an excellent choice. Whether it’s brewed, iced, or a fancy latte, the bold flavors work perfectly with the sweet cookies.
Tea is another fantastic pairing. Consider a spiced chai or a classic Earl Grey as refreshing accompaniments. Hot cocoa can create a sweet contrast, especially on cooler days.
If you’re hosting a gathering, these cookies would fit well on a dessert table alongside other fall-inspired treats such as pecan pie or caramel apples. Their distinct flavor brings variety and complements other seasonal goodies perfectly.
How to Store Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
To keep your Pumpkin Snickerdoodles fresh, proper storage is essential. Ensure that the cookies are completely cool before storing them to prevent condensation buildup, which can lead to sogginess.
Place them in an airtight container. If you want them to stay soft, you can include a slice of bread in the container. The moisture from the bread keeps the cookies from drying out. Stored this way, they can last up to a week.
If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for a couple of hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can last for up to three months. Just allow them to thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Tips to Make Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
To make the best Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, follow a few helpful tips. First, always measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure you have the correct amounts, especially for flour.
Experiment with the pumpkin puree. If using homemade puree, ensure it’s not too watery, as excess moisture can affect the cookie texture.
Chilling the dough is a vital step; it not only helps with handling but also contributes to the final cookie texture. If you prefer larger cookies, simply increase the size of your dough balls but remember to adjust baking time slightly.
It’s also beneficial to watch the cookies closely while baking. Every oven is different, and slight temperature variations can change the baking time.
Variation
Pumpkin Snickerdoodles can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Adding chocolate chips is a great way to enhance the sweetness and provide a delightful contrast to the pumpkin and spices.
You can also swap out some of the pumpkin puree for apple sauce for a different flavor profile while still keeping the cookies moist. If you enjoy nuts, consider mixing in chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
For a more intense flavor, you can increase the spices. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves can give your cookies a unique twist that sets them apart from traditional recipes.
Best Time to Make Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
The best time to make Pumpkin Snickerdoodles is during the fall season, especially from September through November. This time aligns perfectly with pumpkin harvests, making fresh pumpkin puree a delightful option.
Baking during chilly days also creates a cozy atmosphere, filling your home with the sweet scent of cinnamon and pumpkin. Holiday gatherings offer another excellent opportunity to whip up these treats. They make great additions to cookie exchanges and Thanksgiving celebrations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To achieve the perfect Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, avoid some common mistakes. One of the most frequent errors is not measuring ingredients accurately. This can lead to cookies that are either too dry or too soft. Always use the proper measuring tools.
Another common mistake is overmixing the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so mix until just combined. Also, be sure to not bake for too long. This can make your cookies dry. Check them a minute or two early, as they will continue to cook slightly even after being removed from the oven.
Nutritional Notes
Pumpkin Snickerdoodles provide a sweet treat that can bring joy, but moderation is key. Incorporating pumpkin into the cookies adds some nutritional benefits, like fiber and vitamins.
However, cookies are typically high in sugar and fat, so it’s wise to enjoy them as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily snack. For a healthier version, consider substituting some ingredients, like using whole wheat flour or reducing sugar.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree as a substitute for canned pumpkin. Just make sure it’s cooked and pureed properly, and ensure that it is not too watery, as excess moisture can affect the dough.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Pumpkin Snickerdoodle dough. Portion the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you want fresh cookies, bake them straight from the freezer—just add a minute or two to the baking time.
How do I achieve a softer cookie texture?
To get softer cookies, be sure not to over-bake them. Remove them when the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft. Also, chilling the dough can make a big difference in texture.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. With their soft texture and warm spiced flavors, they make the perfect addition to any fall gathering. The ease of preparation, combined with the joy of sharing them with loved ones, makes this recipe a must-try.
Whether enjoyed with a warm drink or given as gifts, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. So, gather your ingredients and bake a batch today—you won’t regret it!
