Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles
There’s something uniquely magical about the aroma that fills your kitchen when baking Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles. As the comforting scent of cinnamon and nutmeg envelops the room, these Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles invite warm memories and cozy gatherings. Their delightful balance of sweet pumpkin flavor and subtle spices makes them one of the Best Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies you’ll ever taste. And with autumn leaves gently falling outside your window, the experience becomes truly enchanting.

Back in my grandmother’s kitchen, every fall was marked by the ritual of baking these cookies. I remember the way she would hum softly as she mixed the ingredients, her hands moving with practiced grace. We would chat about the simple joys of life and laugh at the silliest stories while we formed the dough into perfect little spheres. To this day, every bite of these cookies reminds me of those cherished afternoons, the flour-dusted countertops, and the love baked into each batch.
For a delightful treat that complements the cozy and warm vibes of pumpkin spice, explore this delicious snickerdoodle zucchini bread. If you’re in the mood for a creative twist, consider trying another snickerdoodle zucchini bread version. They both offer a comforting combination of flavors that bring a unique spin to your baking adventures.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles
- This Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookies recipe is incredibly easy to make with simple steps, and you won’t need any fancy tools to get started.
- It’s a flexible recipe; you can easily change ingredients or styles to fit your taste or dietary needs.
- Perfect for busy days when you want a delicious treat without a lot of fuss. They’re also ideal for families and guests, offering a cozy, autumnal flavor everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing Bowls
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
- Baking Sheet
- Cooling Rack
- Spatula
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
Step 1: Preparation for the Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles
For the cookies:
- 1 cup butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the spiced sugar coating:
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Step 2: Cooking the Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until combined. Gradually add the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
To make the spiced sugar coating, combine the granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in the spiced sugar mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Place the coated dough balls onto a baking sheet, leaving ample space between each one to allow for spreading. Bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Step 3: Assembling and Finishing
Once your Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles have cooled, they’re ready to be served. For a delightful presentation, stack them neatly on a decorative plate, or arrange them in a basket lined with a kitchen towel. These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, enhancing their cozy, autumnal appeal.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles Every Time
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature to create a smooth dough.
- Don’t overmix the dough after adding the flour to keep the cookies tender.
- For added flavor, consider sprinkling a touch of extra cinnamon on top before baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold butter can result in a denser dough that’s hard to mix.
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve even cooking.
- Avoid packing flour into the measuring cup, as this can lead to overly dense cookies.
Easy Ways to Customize Your Dish
- Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough for extra texture.
- For a festive touch, drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk.
- Swap the pumpkin pie spice for ginger or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
Occasions Perfect for This Recipe
- These cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings, bringing warmth and baked sweetness to any celebration.
- They make a thoughtful gift for friends and neighbors when packaged in a decorative tin.
- Perfect for afternoon tea parties, adding a seasonal flair to your menu.
FAQs
Q: What makes a snickerdoodle different from a sugar cookie?
The main difference between a snickerdoodle and a sugar cookie is the use of cream of tartar and a sugar-cinnamon coating. These ingredients give snickerdoodles their characteristic tangy flavor and slightly chewy texture.
Q: How do you make pumpkin spice cookies from scratch?
Making pumpkin spice cookies from scratch involves mixing ingredients like butter, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and flour to create the dough. Then, coat the dough balls in a spiced sugar mixture before baking them to perfection.
Q: Can I freeze pumpkin spice snickerdoodles?
Yes, you can freeze pumpkin spice snickerdoodles. Simply let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Q: Are snickerdoodles supposed to be soft or crunchy?
Snickerdoodles are traditionally meant to be soft and chewy on the inside with slightly crisp edges, making every bite a delightful experience.
Q: What is the origin of pumpkin spice?
Pumpkin spice originated as a blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, often used in pumpkin pie. It’s become a beloved flavor in the autumn, celebrated in various baked goods and beverages.
Embrace the Warmth of Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookies
There’s something special about making and sharing Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies with loved ones. This delightful cookie recipe captures the essence of autumn with its warm spices and comforting flavor. Whether you’re baking for yourself or for a gathering, these cookies stand out as one of the Best Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies, offering a perfect blend of nostalgia and taste.
**For more sweet ideas, check out these delightful chocolate chip cookie brownies for another delightful option to satisfy your sweet tooth!**
Give this recipe a try, share your results in the comments, or save it for your next baking day. We’d love to hear about your experience with these Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles!
PrintPumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the warmth of autumn with these Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookies. Featuring the perfect blend of pumpkin pie spice, these soft and chewy cookies bring back the essence of nostalgic fall baking. With their delightful aroma and taste, they stand tall among the Best Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies you’ll ever try.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- For the spiced sugar coating:
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until combined.
- Gradually add the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- To make the spiced sugar coating, combine the granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in the spiced sugar mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Place the coated dough balls onto a baking sheet, leaving space between each one to allow for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Once cooled, serve and enjoy. These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
Notes
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature to create a smooth dough.
- Don’t overmix the dough after adding the flour to keep the cookies tender.
- For added flavor, consider sprinkling a touch of extra cinnamon on top before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookies, autumn baking, spice cookies