Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve landed in the right place! These Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies are the perfect blend of chewy pumpkin goodness and warm spices, topped with a sweet crunchy streusel. They remind me of lazy autumn afternoons spent sipping coffee and indulging in a sweet treat. I love how versatile these cookies are; whether you’re whipping them up for a family gathering or just treating yourself on a chilly evening, they never fail to bring smiles.

What makes these cookies truly special is their delightful texture and flavor. Each bite is like a hug from your favorite coffee cake, but in cookie form! Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, these Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies will quickly become a beloved recipe in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can whip these cookies up in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the warm flavors of pumpkin and spice.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just an ordinary Tuesday, these cookies will brighten your day.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and store them for busy days when you need a sweet pick-me-up.
• Deliciously indulgent: The combination of chewy cookie texture topped with crunchy streusel and creamy icing is simply irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These cookies come together with simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create these delightful treats!

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

For the Streusel Topping

• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (220 g) brown sugar, packed

For the Icing

• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (130 g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-4 tsp whole milk

Variations

One of the best things about these cookies is how adaptable they are! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra indulgent touch.
• Nuts for crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Swap the spices: Experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg if you’re looking to change things up.
• Glaze it differently: Instead of vanilla icing, try a maple glaze for a new twist on sweetness.

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Start by creaming together the softened butter and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it adds air into the mixture, creating those lovely chewy textures we adore in cookies. Once mixed, add the canned pumpkin puree along with your spices, salt, and flour. Mix until everything is just combined—overmixing can lead to dense cookies!

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, combine more softened butter with brown sugar and flour to create your streusel topping. Use your fingers to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. This topping adds that irresistible crunch we crave!

Step 3: Form Your Cookies

Scoop tablespoons of cookie dough onto a lined baking sheet. Press the streusel topping generously onto each cookie mound. This extra layer not only adds texture but also makes them visually appealing!

Step 4: Bake Away!

Pop those trays into your preheated oven and bake until golden around the edges—about 11 minutes should do! Keep an eye on them; once they smell amazing, they’re almost ready!

Step 5: Drizzle with Icing

While your cookies cool down slightly, prepare your icing by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this over your warm cookies for that final touch of sweetness.

And there you have it! A batch of delicious Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies that will fill your home with warmth and joy. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Baking is all about fun and experimentation, so let’s ensure your pumpkin coffee cake cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Room temperature butter and eggs blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and evenly baked cookies. It makes a noticeable difference in texture!

• Don’t skip the chilling step: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances the flavors. Plus, it prevents them from spreading too much during baking.

• Check your flour measurement: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dry or crumbly results, while too little can make them overly soft.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the pumpkin pie spice according to your taste! Adding extra cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavors even more, giving your cookies that cozy autumn vibe.

• Cool completely before icing: Allow your cookies to cool down on a wire rack before drizzling with vanilla icing. This ensures that the icing doesn’t melt into the warm cookies, keeping your presentation beautiful.

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

These delectable pumpkin coffee cake cookies are perfect for any gathering or cozy afternoon treat. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy them!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the icing for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of ground cinnamon over the iced cookies adds a lovely touch and enhances their aroma.
• Caramel drizzle: For an indulgent twist, drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over each cookie to create a sweet contrast with the spiced pumpkin.

Side Dishes

• Chai latte: The warm spices in chai complement the flavors of pumpkin beautifully, making it a cozy drink option alongside these cookies.
• Apple cider: This classic fall beverage pairs perfectly with pumpkin treats, balancing sweetness with a hint of tartness.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the richness of the cookies.
• Cheese platter: Offering a selection of cheeses can provide a savory element that balances out dessert flavors beautifully and adds variety to your snack table.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to impressing family and friends with your delicious pumpkin coffee cake cookies. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, ensuring you have a delightful treat ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store 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.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, reheat individual cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them on a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies that you might find helpful!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just make sure it is well-cooked and pureed until smooth. Canned pumpkin is often more convenient and consistent in texture.

How do I make these Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or add it separately to help with texture.

What makes these cookies different from traditional pumpkin cookies?

These Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies have a unique texture thanks to the chewy base and the crunchy brown sugar streusel topping, giving them a delightful coffee cake feel!

Can I skip the vanilla icing on top?

Absolutely! The cookies are delicious on their own, but the icing adds an extra touch of sweetness if you wish to indulge.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies as much as I do! They’re not just any cookie; they’re a cozy hug in dessert form, perfect for sharing with friends and family during the fall season. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to come back and tell me how they turned out. Happy baking!