Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, look no further than these Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies! They bring together all the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices, making them perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family celebration. The chewy texture paired with a crunchy streusel topping is what makes these cookies so special—and trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked!

These Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies are not just delicious; they also fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma that will remind you of your favorite coffee shop. They’re perfect for sharing with friends over a warm cup of tea or coffee, or simply enjoying on your own while snuggled up with a good book.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: These cookies come together in just under an hour, making them an easy option for last-minute cravings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the chewy texture and sweet flavor—great for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch and store them for later; they stay soft and tasty for days!
• Versatile Flavor: Perfect as a snack or dessert, these cookies are sure to please at any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry! Each one plays a key role in making these cookies irresistible. Let’s gather what we need:

For the Cookie Base

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (165 g) brown sugar, packed
• 3/4 cup (94 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup (122 g) canned pumpkin puree (Libby’s canned pumpkin works best)
• 1 3/4 cups (219 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (220 g) brown sugar, packed
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature

For the Icing

• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (130 g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-4 tsp whole milk

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Chocolate Chips: Stir in some chocolate chips for a sweet twist that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
• Dried Fruits: Consider adding dried cranberries or raisins for bursts of sweetness.
• Spice It Up: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to give your cookies an extra kick!

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by creaming together the softened butter and brown sugar in a mixing bowl until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that lovely chewy texture. Plus, who doesn’t love that sweet buttery aroma wafting through the kitchen?

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your cookie dough.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the canned pumpkin puree and egg yolks to your creamed butter mixture. Blend well until everything is smoothly combined. The pumpkin not only adds flavor but also keeps your cookies moist.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies. We want them light and chewy!

Step 5: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, mix together some brown sugar with additional flour and melted butter until crumbly. This crunchy topping is what makes these Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies feel indulgent!

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Scoop out spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets and sprinkle each cookie with streusel topping. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 11 minutes—or until lightly golden around the edges. The smell will be incredible!

Step 7: Drizzle with Icing

Once cooled slightly, whip up your icing by mixing powdered sugar with vanilla extract and enough milk to achieve drizzling consistency. Simply drizzle over each cookie for that final touch of sweetness.

Enjoy every bite of your homemade Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies! They’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies is a breeze, especially with a few helpful tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother dough and better texture in the final cookie.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined keeps your cookies chewy and tender. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, so be gentle!

• Chill the dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can enhance the flavors and help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.

• Check for doneness: Since ovens can vary, keep an eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking. They should be lightly golden around the edges while still soft in the center.

• Store properly: For maximum freshness, store your Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen for up to three months if you want to save some for later!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

These scrumptious cookies are perfect for any occasion—from cozy fall gatherings to festive celebrations. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Drizzle with extra icing: A light drizzle of vanilla icing on top adds an appealing touch and enhances sweetness.
• Sprinkle with crushed nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts give a delightful crunch and complement the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or Tea: Nothing pairs better with these cookies than a warm cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of your drink will highlight the spices in the pumpkin flavor.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side provides a lovely contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies—perfect for dessert!
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits like apples and pears offers a fresh balance alongside these rich cookies.
• Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, can create an interesting savory contrast that complements the sweet flavors of your cookies.

Enjoy every bite and share these delightful treats with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch in advance and store them for a delicious treat throughout the week or for special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them in the same container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies.

Can I substitute fresh pumpkin puree for canned in Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. Just ensure it’s well-drained and has a similar consistency to canned pumpkin.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies are done?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges and still soft in the center when they come out of the oven. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips to enhance the flavor and texture of your cookies.

What makes these cookies chewy?

The combination of brown sugar and butter creates moisture that gives these cookies their chewy texture. Be sure not to overbake them!

Are these Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies suitable for shipping?

Yes! These cookies hold up well during shipping. Just pack them securely in an airtight container with padding to avoid breakage.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies as much as I do! The chewy texture combined with the sweet streusel topping makes them truly special. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them on your own with a cozy cup of coffee, they’re sure to bring warmth this fall season. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to try this recipe—it’s one you’ll want to make again and again!