Perfect Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Recipe

There’s something magical about the moment when autumn spices meet the comfort of a classic cookie. Last October, I was experimenting in my kitchen, trying to capture that perfect fall feeling in a single bite. As the scent of cinnamon and pumpkin snickerdoodles filled my home, I knew I’d stumbled upon something truly special. These aren’t just cookies they’re little pillows of warmth that taste like a cozy sweater feels.

What makes these pumpkin snickerdoodles so irresistible is how they perfectly balance the beloved tang of traditional snickerdoodles with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin and warming spices. Each bite delivers that signature soft-chewy texture we all crave, with an extra layer of autumn magic that’ll have you reaching for seconds (and thirds – trust me, I’ve been there).

Let’s dive into this sweet adventure together, because I promise you this dessert’s got heart.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Recipe

These fall Pumpkin Snickerdoodles cookies are about to become your new obsession, and here’s why. First, they’re incredibly approachable you don’t need any fancy equipment or pastry chef skills to create something absolutely magical. The dough comes together beautifully, and the rolling in cinnamon sugar is pure therapeutic joy.

Second, the flavor combination is pure genius. The pumpkin adds moisture and subtle earthiness while the pumpkin pie spice brings all those cozy autumn vibes we crave. Meanwhile, the cream of tartar gives these cookies that distinctive snickerdoodle tang that makes them so addictive.

Most importantly, these cookies are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re bringing them to a potluck, packing them in lunch boxes, or simply enjoying them with your morning coffee, they create those sweet moments of connection that make baking so special.

What You’ll Need To Make Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Let me walk you through each ingredient because understanding their roles makes all the difference in your baking success.

• Butter and shortening – This combination gives us the perfect texture. The butter brings flavor while the shortening ensures these cookies stay wonderfully soft.
• Granulated and brown sugars – The granulated sugar creates structure, while brown sugar adds moisture and that subtle molasses note that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Pumpkin puree – I always keep canned pumpkin in my pantry year-round because it’s convenient and consistent. If you’re using homemade, make sure it’s well-drained.
• Pumpkin pie spice – This magical blend typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice. You can make your own if you prefer!
• Cream of tartar – This is the secret to authentic snickerdoodle flavor. Don’t skip it – it’s what gives these cookies their signature tang.
• Cinnamon sugar coating – Because what’s a snickerdoodle without that gorgeous, sparkly exterior?

Let’s Bake It Together

Ready to create some magic? Here’s how we’ll bring these autumn treats to life:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line your baking sheet with parchment. This prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
2. Cream the butter and shortening until smooth, then add both sugars. Beat for several minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy – this creates the perfect cookie texture. Mix in the egg, pumpkin, and vanilla until well combined.
3. Combine all your dry ingredients in a separate bowl, then gently fold them into the wet mixture. Don’t overmix – we want tender cookies, not tough ones!
4. Chill the dough for 10 minutes while you prepare your cinnamon sugar mixture. This brief rest makes the dough easier to handle and helps prevent spreading.
5. Roll the dough into 24 balls, then coat each one in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Place them on your prepared baking sheet and gently flatten – this ensures even baking.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes only! They’ll look slightly underdone, but they’ll continue cooking on the hot pan. Trust me on this – it’s the secret to perfectly soft cookies.

Serving Suggestions

These soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are delicious on their own, but here are some of my favorite ways to serve them. Try them warm with a glass of cold milk it’s pure childhood nostalgia in every bite. For something more grown-up, pair them with spiced chai tea or a pumpkin spice latte.

During the holidays, I love arranging them on a platter with other autumn treats, or packaging them in clear bags tied with orange ribbon for gift-giving. They also make an incredible base for ice cream sandwiches just sandwich your favorite vanilla or cinnamon ice cream between two cookies.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of this Pumpkin Snickerdoodles is how adaptable it is to your needs and preferences:

• Gluten-free version – Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
• Spice variations – Try adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger for extra warmth, or reduce the pumpkin pie spice if you prefer subtler flavors.
• Mix-ins – Fold in mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or even butterscotch chips for extra indulgence.
• Different coatings – Try rolling in maple sugar instead of cinnamon sugar, or add a pinch of nutmeg to your coating mixture.

Kitchen Tips & Tricks

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

These Pumpkin Snickerdoodles spice cookies stay fresh in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them in freezer bags for up to three months they thaw beautifully and taste just as good as fresh.

The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. If freezing, roll into balls first, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to bags. You can bake them straight from frozen just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Related Cookie Recipes You’ll Love

• Pumpkin No Bake Cookies
• Colorful Monster Cookies
• Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Cookies
• Chewy Soft Snickerdoodle Cookie

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin snickerdoodles represent everything I love about fall baking they’re comforting, approachable, and absolutely bursting with seasonal flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your journey, this recipe will reward you with cookies that taste like pure joy.

I encourage you to make this recipe your own. Maybe add your favorite spices, or try different mix-ins. Baking is about creating memories and sharing love, so don’t stress about perfection just have fun with it.

Thanks for baking with me today! I’d love to hear how your cookies turn out, so feel free to share your experiences in the comments below.

Print