Name: Pumpkin Pie Cookie Bliss: Thick, Chewy Delights for Fall
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 57 min
Ingredients: 2.67 cups All-Purpose Flour (Provides the structure and texture needed for chewy cookies.); 1 tablespoon Pumpkin Spice (Infuses the cookies with warm, classic autumn flavors.); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Enhances the sweetness and balances the overall flavor.); 3 oz Cream Cheese (Ensures a moist and tender cookie.); 12 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and flavor to the dough.); 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar (Delivers sweetness and contributes to the cookie texture.); 0.5 cup Brown Sugar (Introduces moisture and a deeper flavor profile.); 1 large Egg Yolk (Binds the dough together for a rich cookie.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Deepens the flavor for a more complex taste.); 0.33 cup Coarse Sugar (Creates a delightful sweet crust for the cookies.); 1 large Egg (Binds the filling ingredients for the perfect texture.); 0.25 cup Brown Sugar (Sweetens the filling beautifully.); pinch Table Salt (Elevates all the flavors in the filling.); 0.5 cup Pumpkin Puree (The star ingredient that gives the filling its signature flavor.); 0.25 cup Whole Milk (Adds creaminess to the pumpkin filling.); 0.25 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor depth in the delicious filling.); Whipped Cream (Optional for topping.)

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, the season of cozy baking arrives, bringing with it the warm scent of indulgent treats. I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Thick & Chewy Pumpkin Pie Cookies—an ultimate fall-inspired dessert that captures the essence of pumpkin pie in every delightful bite. With a soft, chewy texture and a silky pumpkin filling, these cookies are a wonderful twist on a classic favorite. They’re not only quick to whip up but also perfect for sharing at Thanksgiving gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea. Trust me, they’ll become a seasonal staple that won’t last long! Curious about how to bring these autumn flavors to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why Will You Love Pumpkin Pie Cookies?

Irresistible Flavor: Each bite blends the warmth of pumpkin spice with a smooth, creamy filling that evokes the beloved pumpkin pie.

Easy to Make: Don’t worry about complicated techniques; this recipe is straightforward, making it a breeze for bakers of all levels.

Perfect for Fall: Indulge in the authentic taste of autumn with these cookies—ideal for cozy gatherings or simply enjoying at home.

Versatile Twist: Mix it up by folding in chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture, or try swapping pumpkin for apple puree for a delightful variation.

Family Favorite: Share them with friends and family, and watch as these cookies quickly become a cherished dessert during the holiday season.

For a pumpkin-inspired treat that pairs perfectly with a warm drink, check out my Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins or for a sweet finish, try the Pumpkin Cupcakes Brown!

Pumpkin Pie Cookie Ingredients

• Get ready for these delicious Pumpkin Pie Cookies with this essential ingredient list!

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – 2 ⅔ cups (337g) – Provides the structure and texture needed for chewy cookies.
Pumpkin Spice – 1 tablespoon – Infuses the cookies with warm, classic autumn flavors.
Salt – ½ teaspoon – Enhances the sweetness and balances the overall flavor.
Cream Cheese – 3 oz (86g), room temperature – Ensures a moist and tender cookie.
Unsalted Butter – 12 tablespoons (6 oz), room temperature – Adds richness and flavor to the dough.
Granulated Sugar – ½ cup (110g) – Delivers sweetness and contributes to the cookie texture.
Brown Sugar – ½ cup (112g), packed – Introduces moisture and a deeper flavor profile.
Large Egg Yolk – 1, room temperature – Binds the dough together for a rich cookie.
Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon – Deepens the flavor for a more complex taste.
Coarse Sugar – ⅓ cup (78g) for rolling – Creates a delightful sweet crust for the cookies.

For the Filling

Filling – Large Egg – 1, room temperature – Binds the filling ingredients for the perfect texture.
Brown Sugar (Filling) – ¼ cup (56g) – Sweetens the filling beautifully.
Table Salt (Filling) – Pinch – Elevates all the flavors in the filling.
Pumpkin Puree – ½ cup (122g) – The star ingredient that gives the filling its signature flavor.
Whole Milk – ¼ cup (2oz) – Adds creaminess to the pumpkin filling.
Vanilla Extract (Filling) – ¼ teaspoon – Enhances flavor depth in the delicious filling.

For Serving

Whipped Cream – Optional for topping – Adds a light and fluffy finish for serving, enhancing enjoyment.

These Pumpkin Pie Cookies are sure to win over hearts and taste buds alike! Enjoy this seasonal delight with family and friends. Happy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your pumpkin pie cookie adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper—this ensures your cookies won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup later. The sweet aroma of fall will start to fill your kitchen as you gear up to bake these delightful treats.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2⅔ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of pumpkin spice, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This blend sets the flavor foundation for the cookie. In a large mixing bowl, beat together 3 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese, 12 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add in 1 large egg yolk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the creamed mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough may be slightly sticky; that’s perfect for creating those thick and chewy pumpkin pie cookies. Set the dough aside and let it rest for a few minutes while you prepare the filling—it will ensure rich flavors meld and maintain its shape when baking.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, combine 1 large egg, ¼ cup of brown sugar, a pinch of salt, ½ cup of pumpkin puree, ¼ cup of whole milk, and ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This creamy filling is what makes these pumpkin pie cookies truly special, so make sure to mix until it’s perfectly combined.

Step 5: Form the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, roll the dough into balls weighing approximately 36 grams each. After rolling them, coat each ball generously in coarse sugar, giving them a sparkly exterior. Once coated, create a well in the center of each dough ball, gently pressing down to make room for that luscious filling.

Step 6: Fill and Bake
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of your prepared filling into the well of each cookie dough ball. Place the filled cookies on the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for spreading. Bake them in your preheated oven for 14-17 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cookies appear set in the middle. For a wonderful visual cue, look for a soft yet firm texture.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the pumpkin pie cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If you’d like, top each cookie with a dollop of whipped cream just before serving; this adds an extra layer of indulgence and festivity to your delightful fall treats.

Make Ahead Options

These Thick & Chewy Pumpkin Pie Cookies are a fantastic treat to prepare ahead of time, saving you precious minutes during the busy holiday season! You can make the cookie dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance—just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply scoop and form the cookies, fill them with the prepped filling, and bake according to the recipe instructions. To maintain their luscious texture, avoid rolling the cookies in coarse sugar until you’re about to bake them. This way, you’ll have delicious, fresh cookies ready to impress at a moment’s notice—just as delightful as if they were made from scratch right before serving!

What to Serve with Thick & Chewy Pumpkin Pie Cookies

These delightful treats are perfect for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere at your fall gatherings.

Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: This warm and comforting drink enhances the spices in the cookies, making it a perfect pairing for chilly evenings.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A savory side dish that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, ideal for a balanced meal.
Apple Cider: The crisp and tart notes of apple cider complement the warm spices of the cookies, making it a refreshing accompaniment.
Maple Pecan Scones: These scones offer a nutty crunch that mirrors the fall flavors, making them a delightful addition to your dessert spread.
Cheesecake Squares: The creamy texture and rich flavor of cheesecake provide a luxurious contrast to the pumpkin cookies, creating a marvelous dessert platter.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enjoy the ultimate fall experience by pairing these cookies with that beloved latte, enhancing the pumpkin flavors beautifully.
Spiced Cranberry Chutney: The tanginess of this chutney adds a bright note, balancing sweetness while elevating your cookie experience.
Whipped Cream Topping: For an irresistible finish, serve a dollop of sweetened whipped cream to top off each cookie, inviting extra indulgence.
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: A healthy side that introduces nutty flavors and textures, creating a lovely contrast to dessert.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic and comforting, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the warm cookies creates an absolutely delightful treat.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Enjoy their delightful chewy texture at room temperature before indulging.

Fridge: For extended freshness, keep cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Allow them to come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezer: Freeze cookies in an airtight container with wax paper between layers. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months—perfect for make-ahead holiday treats!

Reheating: If you want to enjoy warm cookies, reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This brings back the fresh-baked goodness of these pumpkin pie cookies!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. This helps to create a smoother dough and results in thicker, chewier cookies.
Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to form the cookie balls and ensures they hold their shape while baking.
Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the baking time; overbaked cookies can lose their chewy texture. Aim for a soft appearance in the center—this will firm up as they cool.
Filling Consistency: Make sure to whisk the filling until it’s smooth; any lumps can lead to uneven filling distribution in your pumpkin pie cookies.
Coarse Sugar Coating: Rolling the dough balls in coarse sugar not only adds sweetness but also gives your cookies a beautiful texture contrast. Don’t skip this step!

Pumpkin Pie Cookie Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into these delightful cookies for even more tasty options!

Vegan Option: Replace the egg yolk with 2 tablespoons of applesauce for a completely plant-based cookie.
Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for extra texture and flavor that surprises with each bite.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet twist that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute whole milk with almond milk and cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a cookie that everyone can enjoy.
Spice It Up: Enhance the warmth by adding a teaspoon of ground ginger or a half teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a little heat!
Syrupy Sweetness: Drizzle the cookies with maple syrup just before serving for a delightful finish that brings out the fall flavors.
Fruity Filling: Swap out pumpkin puree for apple puree or mashed sweet potato for a different, delicious filling that keeps the cookie experience fresh.

For an irresistible treat with a twist, don’t miss out on my Apple Pie Bars that offer a unique fusion of flavors, or try the rich and luxurious Pumpkin Cupcakes Brown for another sweet delight!

Pumpkin Pie Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best results, use pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. Look for brands that specify “100% pure pumpkin” on the label. The puree should be thick and smooth; avoid any that looks watery or has dark spots, as that can indicate spoilage.

How should I store pumpkin pie cookies?
Very simple! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Just allow them to return to room temperature before serving to enjoy their chewy goodness again!

Can I freeze pumpkin pie cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your cookie layers in an airtight container with wax paper in between each layer to prevent sticking. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste.

I’m having trouble with the filling leaking during baking. What should I do?
Don’t worry, this can happen! To prevent leaking, ensure that your dough balls are shaped well with a deep enough well for the filling. If they still leak, you might be overfilling them—1 tablespoon is usually just right. Also, make sure the dough is cold before baking, as this helps it hold its shape better.

Are pumpkin pie cookies suitable for dogs?
Yes! Unsweetened pumpkin puree is actually safe for dogs in moderation. However, avoid giving them any cookies with the filling or sugar, as it could upset their stomachs. Always check with your vet before introducing new treats into your pet’s diet.

Can I substitute the cream cheese for a dairy-free option?
Yes! A great alternative is to use dairy-free cream cheese or even blended silken tofu, which provides a similar creamy texture. You can also add a bit of lemon juice or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor if needed. This way, everyone can enjoy your delicious pumpkin pie cookies!