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Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

These Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are tender, chewy, and packed with warm fall spices—perfect for cozy autumn baking and sharing with loved ones.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy, Fall, Pumpkin, Quick, Soft, Spiced, Sugar Cookies
Servings: 24 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  • Start by beating the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed. Stop once the flour is just incorporated.
  • Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place on prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are set but centers remain soft.
  • Let cookies cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Sift powdered sugar over the tops before serving.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Electric mixer or stand mixer
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Baking Sheets
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
  • Cooling racks
  • Sifter or fine mesh sieve

Notes

  • Using canned pumpkin puree works perfectly, but fresh pumpkin puree can be used for an even fresher taste.
  • Ensure your butter is softened but not melted to achieve the best cookie texture.
  • Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps keep the cookies soft and prevents spreading.
  • For a prettier presentation, roll dough balls in granulated sugar before baking for a subtle sparkle.