Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Perfectly sweet and chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are the ultimate fall treat. These cookies offer a delightful twist on the classic snickerdoodle, featuring a rich pumpkin flavor that makes them perfect for cozy gatherings or festive occasions. With their soft texture, crisp buttery edges, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon adds a warm, comforting flavor that enhances the classic snickerdoodle.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. You can whip up a batch in no time!
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies at Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or just as an everyday snack with coffee or tea.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: The addition of pumpkin puree ensures these cookies remain soft and chewy while still having a slight crunch on the outside.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 18 servings in this recipe, they’re great for sharing with friends or bringing to potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking your Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, make sure you have the right tools ready. Having the right equipment can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer: This tool ensures your butter and sugar mix thoroughly, creating a light texture in your cookies.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet promotes even cooking so that your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Lining your baking sheets helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

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

For the 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
• 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 aside to prepare for the cookie dough.

Step 2: Cream Your Ingredients

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 the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Mix in Eggs and Pumpkin

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

Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Add:
– All-purpose flour,
– Baking soda,
– Salt.

Mix until a dough forms.

Step 5: Portion Out Dough

Scoop out approximately 2 1/2 tablespoons of dough:
– Roll each portion into a ball.
– Place them onto your prepared baking sheet.

Repeat until all dough is used.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl:
– Combine granulated sugar with pumpkin pie spice.

Step 7: Coat Each Cookie Dough Ball

Roll each ball of dough into the cinnamon-sugar mixture:
– Press gently to ensure it sticks well.

Repeat for all remaining cookie dough balls.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven at 350° F for about:
– 11 to 13 minutes.

The cookies should flatten slightly with golden brown edges when done.

Step 9: Cool Down

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

Step 10: Store Your Cookies

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to:
– 3 days or freeze for up to three months.

Now you’re ready to enjoy delicious Pumpkin Snickerdoodles! Happy Baking!

How to Serve Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are perfect for any occasion. Their unique flavor pairs well with a variety of beverages and toppings, making them an ideal treat for gatherings or cozy nights in.

With Coffee

• Pair with a warm cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.

With Hot Chocolate

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a rich hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

As Dessert

• Serve warm from the oven as a comforting dessert after dinner, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

With Milk

• A classic choice! The creamy texture of milk complements the chewy cookies perfectly.

As Party Favors

• Package them in cute bags with ribbons as homemade party favors for guests to take home.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Perfecting your Pumpkin Snickerdoodles will ensure they are always a hit. Here are some tips to elevate your cookie game:

• Use room temperature ingredients – This helps in achieving a smoother dough and better mixing.

• Measure flour accurately – Spoon and level the flour instead of scooping it directly to avoid dense cookies.

• Don’t overmix the dough – Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill the dough – Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes can help enhance flavors and prevent spreading during baking.

• Rotate baking sheets – Halfway through baking, rotate your sheets for even cooking and browning.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Pumpkin Snickerdoodles can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some delicious options:

1. Cinnamon Apples – Warm cinnamon apples add a sweet and fruity contrast that pairs wonderfully with the spices in the cookies.

2. Cream Cheese Frosting – A dollop of cream cheese frosting can make these cookies even more decadent and irresistible.

3. Spiced Nuts – Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the snickerdoodles.

4. Pumpkin Spice Latte – This seasonal favorite enhances the pumpkin flavor and makes for a cozy pairing.

5. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that complements the cookie’s warmth perfectly.

6. Cheese Plate – Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese that contrast nicely with the sweetness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Snickerdoodles can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can prevent you from achieving cookie perfection.

• Incorrect Measurements – Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much flour or sugar can alter the texture and taste of your cookies.
• Not Softening Butter – Make sure your butter and margarine are softened to room temperature. Cold butter will not cream properly with sugar, affecting the dough consistency.
• Overmixing Dough – Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than soft and chewy ones.
• Skipping the Cooling Step – Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set properly and maintain their shape.
• Underbaking Cookies – Keep an eye on the baking time. Remove them from the oven when the edges are golden brown for perfectly baked Pumpkin Snickerdoodles.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to maintain freshness.

Freezing Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, placing a lid over it for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Snickerdoodles that might help you in your baking journey.

How do I make my Pumpkin Snickerdoodles more flavorful?

You can enhance flavor by adding extra spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Consider using dark brown sugar for a richer taste.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh pumpkin puree works well, but ensure it’s well-drained so your dough doesn’t become too wet.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to handle.

Can I substitute margarine with coconut oil?

Absolutely! Coconut oil can be used as a substitute, but keep in mind it will impart a slight coconut flavor to your cookies.

How long do Pumpkin Snickerdoodles last?

When stored properly, these cookies will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor. Baking these treats is a fun way to embrace the flavors of fall, making them perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Give them a try, and enjoy every bite!