Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Perfectly sweet and chewy, Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are a delightful treat that combines the classic snickerdoodle texture with the warm, comforting flavor of pumpkin. They are perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee. With their crisp edges and soft centers rolled in cinnamon sugar, these cookies will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving desserts, or just a cozy night in.
• Unique Flavor Profile: The addition of pumpkin puree gives these snickerdoodles a seasonal twist that sets them apart from traditional recipes.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy the perfect balance of crispiness on the outside and softness on the inside with every bite.
• Versatile Treat: You can serve them as dessert or alongside your favorite warm beverages.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, it’s essential to have the right tools and equipment. Below are some must-haves for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer: These tools make it easy to cream together butter and sugar until fluffy.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and helps prevent sticking.
• Cookie scoop: Using a scoop allows for uniform cookie sizes, which helps them bake evenly.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup salted butter (softened)
– 1/2 cup margarine (softened)
– 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
– 2 tbsp light corn syrup
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 heaping tsp pumpkin pie spice

How to Make Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer or with an electric hand mixer:
Cream together the margarine, butter, and granulated sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Scrape the sides of the bowl:
Add in the egg, pumpkin puree, corn syrup, and vanilla extract.
Mix until everything is combined smoothly.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients:
Combine flour, baking soda, and salt into the mixture.
Mix until a dough forms.

Step 5: Portion Dough

Portion out the dough:
Use approximately 2 1/2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie.
Roll into balls and place them on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl:
Combine pumpkin pie spice with an additional amount of granulated sugar.

Step 7: Roll Cookies in Cinnamon Sugar

Roll each ball of dough into the cinnamon sugar mixture:
Press gently to coat each cookie thoroughly. Repeat for all dough portions.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven:
For about 11-13 minutes. Watch as they flatten out; edges should turn golden brown when done.

Step 9: Cool Cookies

Allow cookies to cool on the pan:
Let them sit for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack.

Step 10: Store Your Cookies

Store your delicious Pumpkin Snickerdoodles:
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Enjoy these delightful treats any time you crave something sweet!

How to Serve Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are a delightful treat that can brighten up any occasion. They pair wonderfully with various beverages and can be served in several creative ways.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee – The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweet spices in pumpkin snickerdoodles.
• Tea – A warm cup of chai or herbal tea provides a cozy pairing for these cookies.
• Hot Chocolate – Indulge your sweet tooth by enjoying these cookies with a creamy hot chocolate.

As Dessert Platter

• Assorted Cookies – Serve alongside other cookies like oatmeal raisin or chocolate chip for variety.
• Fruit – Fresh fruit like apple slices or berries can balance the sweetness of the snickerdoodles.

For Special Occasions

• Holiday Gatherings – These cookies make an excellent addition to any holiday dessert table.
• Gift Baskets – Package them in decorative boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.

With Ice Cream

• Scoop of Vanilla – Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

To ensure your pumpkin snickerdoodles come out just right, consider these handy tips.

• Use Softened Butter – Ensure both margarine and butter are softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
• Measure Flour Correctly – Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cookies.
• Chill the Dough (Optional) – If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
• Watch Baking Time – Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center.
• Store Properly – For maximum freshness, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

While pumpkin snickerdoodles are delightful on their own, they can be enhanced with some tasty side dishes. Here are some options to consider:

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte – A seasonal favorite that enhances the pumpkin flavor profile beautifully.
2. Caramel Dipping Sauce – Drizzle this over your snickerdoodles for extra sweetness and richness.
3. Cheese Platter – Pair with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese to create a savory contrast.
4. Apple Crisp – A warm apple crisp adds a fruity element that perfectly complements the spices in the cookies.
5. Cinnamon Roll Casserole – This breakfast dish echoes similar flavors and makes a great pairing at brunch.
6. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh fruits alongside your cookies for a balanced treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, even small missteps can affect the final product. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using cold butter: Always ensure your butter and margarine are softened. Cold fats won’t cream properly, leading to dense cookies.
• Measuring flour incorrectly: Use the spoon and level method to measure flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents using too much flour and making dry cookies.
• Not chilling the dough: If your dough is too soft, chilling it for at least 30 minutes can help maintain shape while baking.
• Skipping the cinnamon sugar coating: The cinnamon-sugar topping is essential for that signature snickerdoodle flavor. Make sure to roll each ball generously in this mixture.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookies towards the end of baking. They should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out, as they continue to cook on the pan.
• Storing improperly: Store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Avoid leaving them uncovered, which can make them stale.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pumpkin Snickerdoodles in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for quick warming.
• Stovetop: Place cookies on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Snickerdoodles.

Can I substitute pumpkin puree with another ingredient?

Yes, you can use applesauce or mashed bananas as alternatives, but this will slightly change the flavor and texture.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are done?

The edges should turn golden brown while the center remains soft. They will continue to firm up while cooling.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What pairs well with Pumpkin Snickerdoodles?

These cookies go well with a warm cup of chai tea, coffee, or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.

Are Pumpkin Snickerdoodles suitable for vegan diets?

You can make them vegan by substituting butter with plant-based margarine and using flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are not only delicious but also versatile. Their warm spices evoke comfort during fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Feel free to customize them with chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor. Try these delightful cookies today!