Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

These Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of classic pumpkin coffee cake with the convenience of cookies. Perfect for cozy fall gatherings, these chewy cookies feature a crunchy brown sugar streusel topping and a sweet vanilla icing drizzle. They’re not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion, making them an ideal choice for dessert tables, holiday baking, or simply enjoying with your favorite cup of coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: These cookies are bursting with warm spices and pumpkin flavor, creating a comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Easy to Make: The straightforward recipe allows even novice bakers to whip up these treats without any hassle.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 18 cookies per batch, they are great for sharing at parties or giving as gifts.
• Customizable Topping: Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as nuts or chocolate chips, to make them your own.
• Great Texture: Enjoy the perfect balance of chewy cookie and crunchy streusel, making each bite irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even heat distribution while baking your Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in mixing ingredients without the risk of overflow.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for achieving a smooth batter and properly combining dry ingredients.

Ingredients

These are the best pumpkin coffee cake cookies! They are super chewy pumpkin cookies, topped with crunchy brown sugar streusel and drizzled with vanilla icing. These bakery-style cookies are just like pumpkin coffee cake, but in cookie form!

For the Cookie Dough:

• 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

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the canned pumpkin puree and mix well.
3. Gradually combine both types of flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until just blended.

Step 3: Form the Cookies

1. Use a scoop or tablespoon to portion out dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
2. Flatten each cookie slightly before adding your streusel topping.

Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, combine equal parts brown sugar and flour with melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle generously over each cookie before baking.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 11 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 6: Prepare the Icing

While cookies cool, mix together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle icing over cooled cookies before serving.

Enjoy these Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies warm or at room temperature! They’re sure to become a seasonal favorite!

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

These pumpkin coffee cake cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack, these cookies are versatile enough to please any palate.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair your pumpkin coffee cake cookies with a hot cup of coffee for a classic combination. The flavors complement each other perfectly, making for an energizing start to your day.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a festive dessert platter alongside other treats. They make a beautiful addition to any gathering and will impress your guests with their unique flavor.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm pumpkin coffee cake cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The contrast of warm and cold creates an irresistible dessert experience.

Drizzled with Extra Icing

• For those who love sweets, add an extra drizzle of vanilla icing on top. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the cookies look even more inviting.

On Their Own

• Enjoy these cookies straight out of the oven for the ultimate comfort food experience. Their chewy texture and rich taste make them satisfying without any extras.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

To ensure your pumpkin coffee cake cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder, spices, and canned pumpkin puree. Fresh ingredients yield better flavor and texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Gently mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired chewy texture.
• Chill the dough: If time allows, chill your cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and gives you thicker cookies.
• Watch baking times closely: Every oven is different; check your cookies around the 10-minute mark to avoid overbaking them. They should be lightly golden around the edges.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their chewiness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

While these pumpkin coffee cake cookies are delicious on their own, they can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance their flavors.

1. Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea pair beautifully with the flavors of pumpkin and spice in the cookies.
2. Apple Cider: A glass of warm apple cider adds a sweet and tart contrast that complements the richness of the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter: Pairing with mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese provides a creamy balance to the sweetness of the cookies.
4. Pumpkin Soup: A small bowl of creamy pumpkin soup as a starter can create a comforting autumn-inspired meal.
5. Roasted Nuts: A mix of spiced roasted nuts offers crunchiness and savory notes that balance out the sweet cookie flavors.
6. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can add brightness and acidity, enhancing your dessert experience without overwhelming it.
7. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious side dish that contrasts nicely with cookie sweetness while adding creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pumpkin coffee cake cookies, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final result.

• Bold Flavor Choices: Using too much pumpkin spice can overpower the cookie. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust to your taste.
• Bold Butter Softening: Not properly softening your butter can lead to an uneven texture. Ensure it’s at room temperature before mixing.
• Bold Flour Measurement: Scooping flour directly from the bag can compact it, leading to dry cookies. Use a spoon to lift flour into your measuring cup.
• Bold Overmixing: Mixing the dough too much can make your cookies tough. Mix until just combined for a softer texture.
• Bold Baking Time: Overbaking will lead to hard cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them as soon as they start to brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

• Freeze individually wrapped cookies for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies

• Bold Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Bold Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about pumpkin coffee cake cookies.

What makes pumpkin coffee cake cookies chewy?

The combination of butter, sugar, and the right flour measurement contributes to their chewy texture. Proper mixing and baking time also play key roles.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just ensure it is well-drained and has a similar consistency as canned pumpkin.

How do I know when my pumpkin coffee cake cookies are done?

The edges should be lightly golden brown while the center remains soft. They will continue cooking slightly after being removed from the oven.

Can I customize my pumpkin coffee cake cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin coffee cake cookies are a delightful twist on traditional fall treats. Their chewy texture paired with crunchy streusel makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings! Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy gatherings or simply enjoying at home.