The Best Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cookie Recipe

The aroma of pumpkin spice filling your kitchen, the warm glow of the oven, and the happy chatter of family and friends – Thanksgiving is a time for cherished traditions and creating new memories. And what better way to celebrate than with a batch of delicious, perfectly spiced Thanksgiving pumpkin cookies? This recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic pumpkin pie, transforming the creamy, spiced filling into a soft, chewy cookie that’s sure to become a new holiday favorite.

Baking the Perfect Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cookies

This Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cookie Recipe is not just about following instructions; it’s about understanding the nuances of baking with pumpkin. Pumpkin puree adds moisture and a subtle sweetness, but it can also make your cookies too cakey if not balanced correctly. The key is to use the right amount of flour and to chill the dough thoroughly before baking. This prevents the cookies from spreading too thin and ensures a perfectly soft, chewy texture.

• Use high-quality pumpkin puree: Not pumpkin pie filling! Make sure you’re using pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill the dough: Chilling is crucial for preventing spread and achieving that desirable chewy texture.
• Don’t overbake: Overbaked pumpkin cookies can be dry and crumbly. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the oven when the edges are just set.

Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cookie Dough Ready to be Chilled

Ingredients for Your Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cookies

This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even beginner bakers. The combination of warm spices, like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, creates that quintessential pumpkin spice flavor that’s synonymous with Thanksgiving.

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cookies

1. Cream together the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the wet ingredients: Beat in the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients: Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in the nuts (optional): If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans.
6. Chill the dough: Cover the bowl and chill the dough for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is essential for preventing the cookies from spreading too thin during baking.
7. Preheat and bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
8. Scoop and bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
9. Baking time: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
10. Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Perfectly Baked Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cookies Cooling on a Wire Rack

Tips and Tricks for the Best Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cookie Recipe

• For a richer flavor, use brown butter. This adds a nutty, caramel-like depth to the cookies.
• Add a glaze: A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk can elevate these cookies even further. You can also add a touch of maple syrup or pumpkin spice to the glaze for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile for Thanksgiving, our Thanksgiving cake recipe offers a delicious alternative.
• Get creative with toppings: Sprinkle the cookies with festive sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate.

“Remember, the best baking comes from the heart. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own,” advises renowned pastry chef, Amelia Dubois.

Elevating your Thanksgiving Dessert Spread

These Thanksgiving pumpkin cookies are the perfect complement to your Thanksgiving feast. They offer a delightful alternative to traditional pumpkin pie and are sure to impress your guests. Consider adding our Thanksgiving cupcake recipe to your dessert spread for an even more diverse selection.

Conclusion: A Thanksgiving Treat to Remember

This Thanksgiving pumpkin cookie recipe is a testament to the simple joys of baking. With its warm spices, soft texture, and festive flavors, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and bake a batch of these delicious cookies to share with your loved ones this Thanksgiving.

FAQ

1. Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

2. Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree? No, pumpkin pie filling already contains spices and sweeteners, which will alter the flavor and texture of the cookies.

3. How do I store leftover cookies? Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

4. Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour? Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture of the cookies may be slightly different.

5. Can I omit the nuts? Absolutely! The nuts are optional and can be omitted if you have allergies or simply prefer not to include them.

6. How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much? Chilling the dough thoroughly is crucial for preventing spread. Make sure your baking sheets are also properly lined with parchment paper.

7. Can I add chocolate chips to the cookies? Yes, chocolate chips would be a delicious addition! You can add about 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the dough.