Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could combine the cozy flavor of pumpkin pie with the chewy joy of cookies, this Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe will be your new autumn obsession. It brings together classic pumpkin spice, luscious cream cheese–infused dough, and a luscious pumpkin pie filling—all crowned with a dollop of whipped cream. Whether you’re baking for a holiday dessert tray, a fall potluck, or just a lazy Sunday afternoon treat, these cookies are guaranteed to spark delight and, trust me, the recipe will be requested over and over again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe is how each ingredient plays a special role in making every bite unforgettable. Simple pantry staples come to life with pumpkin pie spice, velvety cream cheese, and a homemade pumpkin filling that’s pure autumn magic. Here’s what you’ll need, along with little tips to help you succeed:

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of chewy, sturdy cookies with the perfect bite.
• Pumpkin spice: Infuses warm, spicy notes that are the signature of every great pumpkin dessert.
• Salt: Brings out the depth in all the flavors, especially the sweetness.
• Cream cheese (room temperature): Adds tang and softness to the cookie dough, making it almost melt in your mouth.
• Unsalted butter (room temperature): Essential for rich flavor and perfect cookie texture; soft butter creams beautifully with sugars.
• Granulated sugar: Gives classic sweetness and helps the cookies spread just the right amount.
• Brown sugar (packed): Adds moisture and a subtle hint of caramel that pairs perfectly with pumpkin spice.
• Large egg yolk (room temperature): Adds richness and helps bind the dough together.
• Vanilla extract: Balances and rounds out the warmth of the spices.
• Coarse sugar (for rolling): Adds sparkle and a delicate crunch on the outside of each cookie.
• Egg (for filling, room temperature): The base of a creamy, custardy pumpkin filling—just like pie!
• Brown sugar (for filling): Sweetens the filling with a toasty molasses touch.
• Table salt (pinch): A tiny dash to keep the filling from being too sweet.
• Pumpkin spice (for filling): Repeats those cozy autumn flavors in the creamy filling.
• Whole milk: Makes the filling creamy and luscious—don’t use skim!
• Pumpkin puree: The absolute star of the show—use pure pumpkin for the richest flavor.
• Vanilla extract (for filling): A touch in the filling to echo the flavor in the dough.
• Whipped cream (optional): For an ultra-decadent garnish, just like pumpkin pie!

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up and to keep your cookies from sticking. This simple step streamlines your baking and helps every batch bake evenly.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin spice, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until it looks fluffy and creamy—this should take about 3 minutes. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides! Add in the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing just until incorporated. Gradually add your flour mixture in three parts, mixing on low and scraping the bowl as you go. Fold with a spatula at the end to make sure you don’t leave any dry bits hiding at the bottom.

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Pie Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the egg, brown sugar, salt, pumpkin spice, milk, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy—this is the luscious pumpkin pie layer that sets these cookies apart.

Step 4: Shape and Fill the Cookies

Roll the dough into balls about the size of 2 tablespoons each (around 36g if you want to get precise). Roll each ball in coarse sugar for an irresistible crystalline crunch. Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Using a tablespoon or the bottom of a small medicine cup, press a well into the center of each ball to make room for the filling. Spoon one generous tablespoon of filling into each well—it should look like a tiny, unbaked pumpkin pie!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 14 to 17 minutes. You’re looking for set edges and a light golden-brown color on the bottom. When they’re done, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Repeat the process with the remaining dough, making sure your baking sheet is cool before starting a new batch.

Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy!

When ready to serve, crown each cookie with a generous swirl or dollop of whipped cream. Sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top if you’d like, and watch them disappear!

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing these cookies is the fun part! A billowy swirl of whipped cream right before serving adds a beautiful touch and that true pumpkin pie flair. For a little more pizzazz, dust with a pinch of extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for visual appeal and a burst of aroma. You could even try a drizzle of caramel sauce if you want to go all out for guests.

Side Dishes

The Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe is rich and flavorful, so simple sides work best. Serve them alongside a warm mug of apple cider, freshly brewed coffee, or a vanilla chai latte. The cookies are also lovely next to a simple fruit platter or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent fall dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can be playful with this recipe—arrange cookies on a rustic wooden board for a harvest feel, nestle them in cupcake papers for grab-and-go treats, or stack them on a tiered dessert tray for a show-stopping centerpiece. For parties, label them as “Pumpkin Pie Bites” and provide little spoons for an extra-special touch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any extra Pumpkin Pie Cookies should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep them longer, pop them in the refrigerator, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

These cookies are freezer-friendly! Once cooled, layer them between sheets of wax paper in a tightly sealed container. They’ll keep for up to two months. Thaw them at room temperature, and wait until just before serving to add any whipped cream garnish.

Reheating

If you love a just-baked cookie experience, warm your Pumpkin Pie Cookies in a 300℉ oven for 4 to 5 minutes, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. Just be mindful if you’ve already added whipped cream—it’s best to add the topping after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

You can, but for the classic Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe experience, pure pumpkin puree is best. Pumpkin pie filling already contains sugar and spices, so you’ll need to adjust the sweetness and seasoning if you substitute it in this recipe.

Do I have to use cream cheese in the dough?

Cream cheese gives the cookies their signature soft chew and a subtle tangy note. If you don’t have any on hand, you could try using more butter, but you’ll lose some of that unique texture and flavor the Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe is loved for.

Can these be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free all-purpose flour. Make sure your pumpkin spice blend is also gluten-free, and you’ll have delicious Pumpkin Pie Cookies for everyone to enjoy.

Should the dough or filling be chilled before assembly?

No need to chill before assembling the cookies. The dough is thick and sturdy enough to shape right away, and the filling is ready to spoon into the wells. If your kitchen is especially warm, you can pop the dough in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to make it even easier to handle.

How far in advance can I make these for a party?

You can bake the cookies up to three days ahead and store them in an airtight container. Hold off on the whipped cream and garnishes until just before serving so they stay as fresh and pretty as possible—your guests will be wowed by your Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe presentation!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s unique, crowd-pleasing, and loaded with cozy fall flavors, this Pumpkin Pie Cookie Recipe is a must-try. Each bite is a delightful little swirl of pumpkin pie magic tucked inside a soft cookie shell. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself (and your friends) to a new fall tradition—happy baking!

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