Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

These Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the warm flavors of autumn with the comforting texture of cookies. Ideal for cozy gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, they offer a unique twist on traditional pumpkin coffee cake. With their chewy centers, crunchy brown sugar streusel topping, and sweet vanilla icing drizzle, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice gives these cookies a warm, comforting flavor that’s perfect for fall.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies are designed to be chewy, offering a delightful mouthfeel that keeps you coming back for more.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions and simple ingredients, you’ll have these delicious cookies ready in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a Halloween party, Thanksgiving dessert table, or just a cozy night in.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to get creative by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or extra spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients properly without making a mess.
• Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for your cookies to bake uniformly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

Ingredients

These are the best pumpkin coffee cake cookies! They are super chewy pumpkin cookies, topped with crunchy brown sugar streusel and drizzled with vanilla icing. These bakery-style cookies are just like pumpkin coffee cake but in cookie form!

For the Cookie Dough

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (165 g) brown sugar, packed
• 3/4 cup (94 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup (122 g) canned pumpkin puree (Libby’s canned pumpkin works best)
• 1 3/4 cups (219 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (220 g) brown sugar, packed
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature

For the Icing

• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (130 g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-4 tsp whole milk

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking while baking.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the canned pumpkin puree and mix until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Shape and Bake Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon:
1. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets spaced about two inches apart.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 11 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 4: Prepare the Icing

While the cookies cool:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to achieve a drizzle consistency.

Step 5: Drizzle Icing Over Cookies

Once cooled:
1. Drizzle the icing over each cookie using a fork or piping bag for an elegant finish.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies as a perfect fall treat any day!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

These delicious pumpkin coffee cake cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them at a cozy gathering or an afternoon snack, here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair these cookies with your favorite brew. The flavors of pumpkin and coffee complement each other beautifully, making it a match made in heaven.

As an Afternoon Snack

• Enjoy these cookies as a delightful pick-me-up during the afternoon. Their chewy texture and sweet topping make them a satisfying treat.

At a Fall Gathering

• Serve these cookies at your next autumn event. They are sure to be a hit among guests looking for seasonal delights.

Drizzled with Extra Icing

• For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle more vanilla icing on top before serving. This adds both flavor and visual appeal.

With Ice Cream

• Enjoy these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The contrast in temperatures is simply irresistible!

How to Perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

To ensure your pumpkin coffee cake cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground pumpkin pie spice adds vibrant flavor compared to older spices that may have lost their potency.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off for accurate measurements, ensuring your cookies are neither too dry nor too dense.
• Chill the dough: If time allows, chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and prevents spreading.
• Don’t overbake: Cookies should be soft in the center when they come out of the oven. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to mix in chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture. You can also adjust the streusel topping according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Pumpkin coffee cake cookies can be paired with various side dishes that balance their sweetness and enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Spiced Chai Latte: A warm chai latte brings cozy spices that beautifully complement the flavors of pumpkin.
2. Apple Cider: Serve hot or cold apple cider alongside your cookies for a refreshing contrast with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.
3. Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthy side that adds creaminess and crunch to your dessert spread.
4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese which offer a creamy contrast to the sweet cookie flavors.
5. Roasted Nuts: A bowl of mixed roasted nuts adds crunch and savory notes, balancing the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
6. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits like pears and apples provides freshness and acidity against the rich cookie texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not using fresh ingredients: Always use fresh pumpkin puree and spices for the best flavor. Check expiration dates to ensure quality.
• Skipping the chilling time: If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
• Incorrect measuring of flour: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents dry cookies caused by too much flour.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C). An uncalibrated oven can lead to uneven baking.
• Overbaking your cookies: Keep an eye on your cookies in the last few minutes. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container: Keep them fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
• Separate layers with parchment paper: This prevents them from sticking together.

Freezing Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a freezer-safe container: They can last up to 3 months when properly stored.
• Consider flash freezing: Place individual cookies on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a container.

Reheating Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat; cover to warm through without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but make sure it’s well-drained and smooth for the right texture.

How do I make my Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies chewy?

To achieve chewiness, don’t overbake them. Remove them from the oven while they’re still soft in the center.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies?

Absolutely! Add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for different flavors and textures.

How do I store leftover Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

What is the best way to thaw frozen cookies?

Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and impress your friends and family!