Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are the ultimate fall treat, blending the warm spices of autumn with a soft, chewy texture that will delight your taste buds. These cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings, festive celebrations, or simply enjoying at home with a cup of tea. Infused with pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice, they bring a unique twist to the classic snickerdoodle, making them a standout dessert for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and other spices creates a delightful flavor that will have you coming back for more.
- Perfect for Fall: These cookies encapsulate the essence of autumn, making them a seasonal favorite.
- Versatile Dessert: Great for parties, family gatherings, or as an everyday treat with your coffee.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy the perfect balance of softness and chewiness in each bite.
Tools and Preparation
To create Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. The right equipment can make all the difference in achieving cookie perfection.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to comfortably mix your ingredients without spills.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures that your butter and sugar blend smoothly for a fluffy texture.
- Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution while baking your cookies.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
Ingredients
The best and easiest Pumpkin Snickerdoodles cookie recipe made with pumpkin pie spice and pumpkin puree.
For the Cookies
- 1/2 cup salted butter (slightly softened)
- 1 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 3 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon all spice
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger
For the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
How to Make Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and slightly softened butter until light and fluffy. Avoid using fully softened butter as it can make the dough too sticky. Add in the egg and pumpkin puree; mix until everything is smooth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add in the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir until a dough forms.
Step 4: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together 2 teaspoons of cinnamon with 2 tablespoons of sugar to create your cinnamon sugar mixture.
Step 5: Roll Dough Balls
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Coat each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture by rolling it directly in the bowl. If you find the dough is too sticky to handle, wetting your hands or refrigerating it for about 30 minutes can help.
Step 6: Bake Your Cookies
Place the coated dough balls on a parchment-lined cookie sheet about two inches apart. Lightly press down on each ball to flatten slightly. Bake for 10-13 minutes until they appear matte on top. Let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to finish setting.
Enjoy these Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles fresh from the oven or store them for later enjoyment!
How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are delightful cookies perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will elevate your dessert experience.
With a Cup of Coffee
- Pairing these cookies with coffee enhances their flavor. The warmth of the coffee complements the spices in the snickerdoodles.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles on a festive platter with other fall-themed desserts. This creates an inviting display for guests.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce over the cookies provides a rich, sweet contrast to the spices in the snickerdoodles.
Served with Ice Cream
- Enjoy these cookies warm topped with a scoop of vanilla or pumpkin ice cream for an indulgent treat that melts in your mouth.
Accompanied by Hot Apple Cider
- Serving with hot apple cider enhances the cozy autumn vibe. The flavors of apple and pumpkin blend beautifully together.
With Whipped Cream Topping
- A dollop of whipped cream on top creates a light and airy texture that perfectly balances the soft, chewy cookie.

How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
To ensure your Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
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Use slightly softened butter: This helps prevent the dough from becoming too sticky, making it easier to handle.
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Chill if necessary: If the dough is too sticky, refrigerating it for about 30 minutes can make rolling easier.
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Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dry snickerdoodles.
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Don’t overbake: Remove them from the oven when they look matte on top. They continue to cook on the baking sheet after removal.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste or try adding new ones like clove for extra warmth.
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Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal softness and freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
While Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
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Apple Crisp: A warm, spiced apple crisp pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavors and adds textural contrast.
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Pumpkin Pie: For true pumpkin lovers, serving a slice of classic pumpkin pie alongside brings out all those fall flavors.
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Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a creamy contrast and balance out the sweetness of the snickerdoodles.
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Pecan Pie Bars: These bars add nutty richness and are easy to share at gatherings or potlucks.
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Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip pieces of snickerdoodle into melted chocolate for an indulgent experience.
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Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit with cookie crumbles for a fresh and light option that still feels special.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Serve these cookies with a homemade pumpkin spice latte for a cozy seasonal treat that warms you from within.
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Hot Chocolate: The sweetness of hot chocolate complements the soft texture and spices of these snickerdoodles beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, it’s easy to make a few common errors that could affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using too much butter: Using softened instead of slightly softened butter can lead to overly sticky dough. Stick to the recipe’s guidance for perfect consistency.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Scoop and level your flour rather than packing it into the cup. Too much flour will make your cookies dry instead of soft.
- Skipping the chill time: If your dough feels too sticky, don’t hesitate to chill it for 30 minutes. This makes rolling easier and leads to better cookie shape.
- Not checking oven temperature: Always ensure your oven is preheated properly. An inaccurate temperature can lead to undercooked or burnt cookies.
- Ignoring the cooling process: Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet helps them set correctly. Skipping this step can result in a crumbly texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
- You can freeze these cookies for up to three months.
- Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, separating layers with parchment paper.
Reheating Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a quick softening.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping once until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles:
What makes Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles different from regular snickerdoodles?
Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles use pumpkin puree and spices, giving them a unique flavor and moisture that traditional snickerdoodles lack.
Can I substitute pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can substitute applesauce or mashed banana, but this will change the flavor and texture slightly.
How do I know when my Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are done?
Cookies are done when they look matte on top and are slightly firm around the edges but still soft in the center.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Their cozy flavors make them perfect for fall gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Experiment with different mix-ins or spices to make them your own!
Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, spiced goodness of Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, the ultimate cozy treat perfect for autumn. These delightful cookies blend the comforting flavors of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice with a soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth. Ideal for gatherings or a quiet evening at home, they are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With every bite, you’ll be reminded of crisp fall days and festive celebrations. Whether paired with coffee or enjoyed straight from the oven, these snickerdoodles are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup salted butter (slightly softened)
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 3 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for cinnamon sugar mixture)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon (for cinnamon sugar mixture)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together sugar and slightly softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and pumpkin puree; mix until smooth.
- Combine flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and spices; stir until dough forms.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls; coat in cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Place on parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly flatten each ball.
- Bake for 10-13 minutes until matte on top; cool before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg







