Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie Cookies Recipe
Creating joyful moments during the Thanksgiving season often comes down to the treats we share. One delightful treat that captures the essence of fall is pumpkin pie cookies. They are soft, sweet, and filled with the flavor of pumpkin pie, making them perfect for your holiday gatherings. Let’s explore this delicious recipe that will impress your family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
You might be wondering why you should try making Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie Cookies. First, they are a wonderful twist on the classic pumpkin pie. Instead of serving the pie directly, you can have these bite-sized cookies that are easy to enjoy. They keep the rich flavors of pumpkin pie while being fun to snack on.
Second, these cookies are great for sharing. Whether you have family visiting for the holiday or you are attending a Thanksgiving potluck, everyone will appreciate these sweet treats. They are small enough to pop in your mouth but big on flavor, making them a hit at any gathering.
Another reason to make these cookies is their simplicity. The ingredients are common and easy to find. You may already have many of them in your kitchen. Additionally, the process is straightforward, making it a perfect recipe for budding bakers or those looking to whip up something delicious without complicated steps.
Lastly, making these cookies allows you to fill your home with the warm and cozy scents of fall. As they bake, they will give off the delightful aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin that will have everyone asking, “What’s baking?” It’s a lovely way to create a festive atmosphere at your gathering.
How to Make Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Now that you are eager to make these cookies, let’s dive into the details. Follow this simple guide to create your Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie Cookies step-by-step.
Ingredients:
To make these cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour: This will serve as the base for your dough, giving it structure.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
1/2 cup powdered sugar: This adds sweetness and provides a nice texture.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: The granulated sugar helps with the dough’s sweetness and browning.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla adds a rich and warm flavor to the cookies.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This spice brings warmth and a hint of spice reminiscent of fall.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Nutmeg adds depth and pairs well with pumpkin.
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: A little ginger spice will give your cookies a pleasant kick.
1 cup pumpkin pie filling: This is the star of the show, providing that classic pumpkin flavor.
1 egg for wash (optional): An egg wash will give the cookies a shiny, golden finish.
Directions:
Get ready to bake! Follow these steps to create your delicious cookies:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C): Start by heating your oven, so it’s ready when your cookies are prepared.
Cream the butter and sugars: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a mixer to beat these together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for the texture of the cookies.
Add the vanilla extract: Pour in the vanilla and mix until everything is well combined. The butter-sugar mixture should smell delightful.
Combine dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger to the butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix; just combine until you no longer see any dry flour.
Roll out the dough: Sprinkle a little flour on your work surface. Take your dough and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a rolling pin for best results.
Cut into circles: Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles from the rolled dough. You can make the cookies any size you like, but keeping them small is best for bite-sized treats.
Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Add pumpkin filling: Place half of the cut circles on the baking sheet. Add a small dollop of pumpkin pie filling to the center of each circle. Be careful not to overfill, as the filling can make the cookies messier.
Top and seal: Place the remaining circles of dough on top of the filled cookies. Press the edges gently to seal them. If you want, brush the tops with the beaten egg for a nice golden color.
Bake: Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Watch them closely; you want the edges to be golden brown and the centers to be set.
Cool and serve: Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely before serving.
How to Serve Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie Cookies
These cookies are perfect for serving at Thanksgiving gatherings. You can arrange them on a decorative platter to make an eye-catching dessert display. They can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Consider pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making an inviting dessert option for your guests. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a festive look.
For an extra touch, serve these cookies alongside a cup of spiced cider or pumpkin spice latte. This pairing will enhance the fall flavors and create a wonderful experience for your family and friends.
How to Store Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie Cookies
To store your delicious cookies, wait until they are completely cool. Once cool, place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature if eaten within a few days.
If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week. Just be sure to layer parchment paper between the cookies to prevent them from sticking together.
For even longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in an airtight container or a freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.
Tips to Make Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time:
Check your ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened properly. If it’s too hard, you won’t be able to cream it well with the sugars.
Use fresh spices: For the best flavor, use fresh spices. Ground spices can lose their potency over time. Fresh spices will give your cookies a richer taste.
Don’t overmix the dough: Once you add the flour, mix just until it comes together. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Even sizes: When cutting your cookies, try to keep them the same size for even baking.
Keep an eye on baking time: Each oven can behave differently, so start checking your cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time.
Variation
If you want to change things up, you can try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the pumpkin filling. These can add an interesting texture and new flavor combinations. Think cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist, or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for a nice crunch.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pumpkin pie filling?
Yes! You can absolutely make your own pumpkin pie filling by blending cooked pumpkin with sugar, spices, and cream. It will give your cookies a fresh taste.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown and the centers feel set to the touch. If they still feel soft, give them another minute or two in the oven, but be cautious not to overbake.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using it. Just be sure to let it soften a bit before rolling it out.
Making Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie Cookies is not just about baking; it’s about creating moments filled with joy and warmth during the holiday season. With these tips and this step-by-step guide, your cookies are sure to be a favorite among all your guests. Enjoy the sweetness of the season!
Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick on a floured surface.
- Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles from the dough.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place half of the cut circles on the baking sheet and add a small dollop of pumpkin pie filling to the center of each.
- Top with the remaining circles of dough and press edges gently to seal. Brush tops with beaten egg if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes until edges are golden brown and centers are set.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.