If you’ve ever wandered the aisles of a fall farmers market, the scent of pumpkin spice in the air, you’ve likely found yourself dreaming of the perfect autumn treat. Enter the Pumpkin Crinkle Cookie: a soft, cake-like bite of pumpkin goodness dusted with a sweet powdered sugar coating. These cookies deliver a harmonious blend of warm spices, rich pumpkin, and a delightful crinkle effect that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies are a simple, beginner-friendly recipe that combines the flavors of fall with a fun twist, making them perfect for the season’s gatherings or just an afternoon baking project.
Want to master this classic fall cookie that’s both easy to make and visually striking? In this post, I’ll guide you through every step of the process—from the ingredients you’ll need to expert tips on making sure those crinkles turn out perfectly. Plus, we’ll dive into variations, nutritional facts, and more! Get ready to bake these irresistible treats with confidence and make your home smell like autumn.
Recipe Card
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10-12 minutes |
| Total Time | 30-32 minutes |
| Servings | 24 cookies |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Estimated Calories | Approximately 110 calories per cookie |
Ingredients:
- For the Cookies:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- Powdered sugar, for coating
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, cream together brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and softened butter until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop dough into balls, rolling first in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar for crinkle effect.
- Bake: Place on baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cookies have puffed up and cracked on top.
Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies are a delightful fall treat that combines the moistness of pumpkin with the sweetness of powdered sugar. These cookies not only taste incredible but also look fantastic with their signature crinkles, making them a favorite for gatherings and festive occasions.
The key to achieving that classic “crinkle” effect lies in the combination of powdered sugar and the cookie dough’s moisture. As the cookies bake, the sugar coating cracks, revealing the soft, moist interior that’s sure to please anyone who takes a bite!
Preparation and Cooking Times
When preparing your Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies, it’s important to manage your time effectively for the best results.
- Preparation Time: You’ll spend about 20 minutes gathering your ingredients, mixing your dough, and getting ready to bake.
- Cooking Time: Each batch will take approximately 10-12 minutes in the oven, depending on your cookie size and oven temperature.
- Total Time: Altogether, you can expect to have these delicious cookies ready in under 35 minutes!
Servings and Difficulty Level
This Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies recipe yields about 24 cookies, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying throughout the week!
Don’t worry if you’re a beginner in the kitchen; this recipe is straightforward and forgiving. If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to celebrate the fall season, look no further!
Estimated Calories Per Serving
Each cookie contains approximately 110 calories, making them a delightful treat without too much guilt! These cookies are rich in flavor but can easily fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned, but avoid pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- Powdered sugar, for rolling the cookie dough balls
Notes on Substitutions or Variations
If you’re missing any ingredients or have dietary restrictions, here are some handy substitutions:
- Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative in place of regular butter.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, mix together cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice to create your own blend.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- Mixing Bowls: Use large bowls for mixing dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Electric Mixer: A hand mixer or stand mixer will make combining ingredients much easier.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to successful baking.
- Baking Sheets: Use multiple sheets lined with parchment paper for easier transfer in the oven.
- Cookie Scoop: This tool helps create uniform cookie sizes, ensuring even baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by measuring out your dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re evenly mixed. This step is important because it ensures that the baking soda and powder are uniformly distributed, leading to consistent results in your cookies.
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, cream together the brown sugar and granulated sugar with the butter until smooth. This should take about two minutes. Next, add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor, making these cookies deliciously rich.
Step 3: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, perfect for rolling!
With your dough ready, use a cookie scoop or your hands to roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter. First, roll them in granulated sugar, then coat them in powdered sugar to create that iconic crinkle effect once baked.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dough balls on your prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each one. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should puff up and crack on top, showcasing their beautiful sugar coating. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Recipe and Variations
Expert Tips for Recipe Success
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too sticky to handle, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes.
- Don’t Overbake: For that chewy texture, remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Suggested Variations or Additions
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
- Nutty Add-ins: Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for some crunch.
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile.
Nutritional Information
Detailed Nutritional Breakdown
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content per cookie:
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Pumpkin is not just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients! It’s a great source of vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune function. Plus, it contains fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness. The spices used in this recipe also boast anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants.
Serving Suggestions
Recommended Side Dishes
Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of spiced chai or apple cider. For a festive gathering, they also complement cheese platters or charcuterie boards.
Beverage Pairings
If you’re serving these cookies at a fall gathering, consider accompanying them with a steaming cup of coffee or a pumpkin spice latte to enhance the flavors of the cookies.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Proper Storage
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
Best Practices for Reheating
To enjoy a warm cookie again, pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will refresh the cookie and bring back its soft texture.
Can I Use Pumpkin Pie Filling Instead of Pumpkin Puree?
No, it’s best to use pumpkin puree for this recipe. Pumpkin pie filling is pre-sweetened and spiced, which will alter the flavor and texture of your cookies.
To achieve a more pronounced crinkle effect, ensure you roll the cookie balls in both granulated and powdered sugar before baking. The powdered sugar helps create the cracks while baking.
Yes! You can freeze both the cookie dough and the baked cookies. For dough, freeze the rolled balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Baked cookies can be frozen for up to two months.
Some delicious variations include adding chocolate chips, using different spices, or mixing in nuts. Feel free to get creative!
Summary
In summary, the Pumpkin Crinkle Cookies recipe is a fantastic way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With their soft, cake-like texture and delightful crinkle effect, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike. Remember to use fresh pumpkin puree, mix your ingredients gently, and bake until just set for the best results.
Now it’s your turn to add these delicious cookies to your baking repertoire. Get in the kitchen, whip up a batch, and enjoy the delightful aroma of autumn wafting through your home! Happy baking!—
