Name: Pumpkin Pie Cookies That Bring Cozy Fall Vibes Home
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Can use salted butter, reduce added salt.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (No direct substitutions.); 1 large Egg (Substitute with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Can substitute with almond extract.); 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can use gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (No direct substitutions.); 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree (Ensure it's pure pumpkin.); 0.67 cup Brown Sugar (Can substitute with granulated sugar.); 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (Can use a homemade blend.); 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adjust to taste.); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Can substitute with mascarpone or Greek yogurt.); 0.25 cup Heavy Cream (Use coconut cream for a non-dairy option.); 1 cup Whipped Cream (Can use homemade or store-bought.)

As the crisp autumn air fills our homes with the aroma of spiced goodies, I couldn’t resist sharing my secret weapon for fall baking: Pumpkin Pie Cookies. These delightful handheld treats are a perfect fusion of two beloved classics— a tender, buttery cookie and the creamy satisfaction of pumpkin pie, wrapped into one easy-to-enjoy bite. With a no-bake pumpkin filling, preparing these cookies is not only a breeze but also offers a fun twist to your usual dessert spread. Whether you’re serving them at a Thanksgiving gathering or enjoying a cozy coffee break, these cookies are sure to impress with their comforting flavors and effortless charm. Curious to discover how to bring this seasonal delight to your kitchen? Let’s get baking!

Why are Pumpkin Pie Cookies a must-try?

Versatile Dessert: Whether you prefer a sugar cookie or shortbread-style base, these cookies cater to all tastes and textures, making them perfect for any occasion.

No-Bake Filling: The smooth, spiced no-bake pumpkin filling eliminates the fuss of traditional pie-making, allowing for a quicker prep time while keeping the delightful pumpkin flavor intact.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These cookies are guaranteed to charm your guests at fall gatherings or Thanksgiving dinners, pairing beautifully with other autumn desserts like Cheesecake Pumpkin Swirl or Pecan Pie Crescent.

Comforting Flavors: Enjoy the comforting taste of pumpkin pie in a handheld format, perfect for cozy evenings with a warm drink or holiday celebrations.

Easy Serving: No need for messy slices or plates; simply serve these delightful cookies in mini cupcake liners for hassle-free enjoyment!

Pumpkin Pie Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture to the cookie base; can use salted butter, but reduce added salt.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookie dough; no direct substitutions as other sugars can alter texture.
• Egg – Binds the ingredients in the cookie dough; substitute 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds flavor to the cookie base; substitute with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
• All-Purpose Flour – Main structure of the cookie dough; can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for gluten-free cookies.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies; no direct substitutions.

For the Pumpkin Filling
• Canned Pumpkin Puree – Forms the base of the filling; ensure it’s pure pumpkin for accurate flavor and not pumpkin pie filling.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth to the filling; can substitute granulated sugar, but flavor will change slightly.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Combines spices to replicate the classic pumpkin pie flavor; a homemade blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can be used instead.
• Ground Cinnamon – Enhances the spiciness of the filling; adjust to taste for optimal flavor.
• Cream Cheese – Provides creaminess, helping the filling to hold its shape; substitute with mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt for a different texture.
• Heavy Cream – Adds richness and smoothness to the filling; use coconut cream for a non-dairy option.

For Serving
• Whipped Cream – Topping that completes the cookie treat; you can use homemade or store-bought whipped cream for convenience.

These Pumpkin Pie Cookies are a delightful way to savor the season’s flavors in each soft, sweet bite, with an easy-to-prepare filling that promises cozy, cheerful gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Cookie Dough
Begin by creaming together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually incorporate 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt until you achieve a smooth dough. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance its texture.

Step 2: Shape Cookies
Once the cookie dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out 1.5-tablespoon portions of dough and roll them into balls between your palms. Place the balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball and use a teaspoon to create a small well in the center of each cookie to hold the filling.

Step 3: Bake Cookies
Now, it’s time to bake your Pumpkin Pie Cookies! Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Keep an eye on them; if the centers are puffed, lightly press down the wells to maintain their shape. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 4: Cool Cookies
Let the cookies cool completely on the wire rack—this should take about 20-30 minutes. Cooling is essential as it allows the cookie bases to firm up, making them ready to hold the delicious no-bake pumpkin filling. Patience is key here, as a warm cookie can lead to a soggy filling.

Step 5: Make Pumpkin Filling
While the cookies cool, prepare the creamy pumpkin filling. In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually blend in 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, ⅔ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ cup of heavy cream, mixing until the filling is silky and well combined.

Step 6: Chill Filling
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling the filling not only helps it thicken but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This will ensure every bite of your Pumpkin Pie Cookies is packed with delicious pumpkin goodness.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled and the filling has thickened, it’s time to assemble your pumpkin pie treat. Spoon or pipe the chilled pumpkin filling into the wells of the cookies, filling them generously. To finish, top each filled cookie with a dollop of whipped cream and a quick sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for that final festive touch.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Cookies

As the sweet aroma of autumn fills your kitchen, let’s explore delightful pairings that will enhance your Pumpkin Pie Cookies experience.

Hot Apple Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider echoes the cozy flavors of fall, making it a heartwarming drink to enjoy with your cookies.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Treat yourself to this iconic beverage that matches beautifully with your cookies’ pumpkin filling, creating a harmonious seasonally-inspired duo.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce contrasts deliciously with the sweetness of the cookies, adding a burst of fruity freshness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream offers a delightful coolness, perfectly balancing the soft, spiced warmth of the pumpkin cookies.
Pecan Pie: Serve individual slices of pecan pie alongside your cookies for a dessert table that celebrates the best of fall flavors.
Chai Tea: The spicy notes in chai tea blend wonderfully with the pumpkin spices, creating a lovely warming beverage for your cozy gatherings.
Cheesecake Bites: Pairing these cookies with bite-sized cheesecake delivers a scrumptious texture contrast, while the rich creaminess complements their flavors.
Maple Glazed Doughnuts: These sweet doughnuts bring an additional layer of fall indulgence, pairing beautifully with the cookie’s smooth filling and gentle spice.
Roasted Nuts: A mix of spiced or salted nuts adds crunch and pairs well with the soft cookie texture, giving an enjoyable munch alongside the treats.

Pumpkin Pie Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Pumpkin Pie Cookies with these delightful twists that not only enhance flavors but also cater to different dietary needs and preferences!

Shortbread Base: Swap the sugar cookie base for a shortbread-style dough for a crumbly and buttery texture that resembles pie crust.
Vegan Option: Replace the egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce and use coconut cream in the filling for a completely vegan treat.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for an extra crunch and a hint of nutty flavor that complements pumpkin perfectly.
Chocolate Surprise: Add in a handful of chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a delicious chocolate twist—pumpkin and chocolate pair beautifully together!
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the pumpkin filling for a surprising yet exciting flavor boost.
Creamy Swirl: Mix in a bit of peanut butter or Nutella into the cream cheese filling for added creaminess and a fun flavor contrast that’s sure to delight.
Fruity Twist: Try using a blend of canned pumpkin and mashed ripe bananas in the filling for a unique fruity flavor that balances the spices beautifully.

Now that you’ve got all these wonderful variations in mind, serve your Pumpkin Pie Cookies alongside other fall delights like Apple Pie Tacos or Caramel Apple Pie Bombs for a seasonal dessert spread that will leave everyone craving more!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Room Temperature: Store unfilled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and chewy, ready for unexpected guests.

Fridge: Filled Pumpkin Pie Cookies should be refrigerated to maintain their creamy texture. Consume them within 2 days for the best flavor and quality.

Freezer: To freeze, place unfilled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container separated by parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before filling and serving.

Reheating: If desired, you can reheat unfilled cookies in a warm oven at 300°F for a few minutes to restore softness before adding filling or toppings.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Chill the Dough: Always chill the cookie dough before baking; this prevents excessive spreading and helps maintain the perfect shape of your Pumpkin Pie Cookies.
Well-Defined Wells: When creating wells in the cookie dough, make sure they are deep enough to hold the filling without overflowing, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Perfect Timing: Keep a close eye on the baking time. If the cookies overbake, they can become dry; aim for a light golden edge and soft center.
Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool completely before filling. This helps keep the crust firm and prevents the no-bake filling from becoming too watery.
Fill Freshly: For the best texture, fill the Pumpkin Pie Cookies just before serving. Unfilled cookies can be stored at room temperature, but filled ones should be refrigerated and eaten within two days for freshness.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Pie Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply roll it into balls, flatten, and create the wells, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. The cookies can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For the filling, mix it up 2 days ahead and refrigerate until needed. When you’re ready to serve, fill the cooled cookies with the chilled pumpkin filling and top with whipped cream. By prepping ahead, you’ll have delicious, festive treats ready with just minimal effort on the day of your gathering!

Pumpkin Pie Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of canned pumpkin should I use for the filling?
Absolutely use pure canned pumpkin puree! It’s crucial not to confuse it with pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that may alter the flavor of your Pumpkin Pie Cookies.

How should I store my Pumpkin Pie Cookies?
For unfilled cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, ensuring they stay fresh and chewy. However, if your cookies are filled, refrigerate them and enjoy within 2 days for the best texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze unfilled cookies! Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the cookies before filling.

What can I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is overly sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for an additional 20-30 minutes. This helps firm up the dough, making it easier to roll into balls. If it’s still sticky, dust your hands and the work surface with a little extra flour to manage it better.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a non-dairy version. For gluten-free cookies, replace all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free blend.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Keep an eye on the edges! The cookies should be lightly golden at the edges and soft in the center when done. If the centers are puffed up, gently press down the wells again to maintain their shape. This way, you end up with the perfect base for your Pumpkin Pie Cookies!