Easy 5-Ingredient Pumpkin Cookies Recipe: Perfect Fall Treats
Introduction:
As the weather cools, nothing says fall quite like the warm aroma of pumpkin baking in the oven. This pumpkin cookie recipe is one of my favorites for its simplicity and delicious, comforting flavors. With only five ingredients, it’s a seasonal staple that combines everything I love about autumn—sweetness, spice, and a hint of nostalgia. Whether for family gatherings or just a cozy evening snack, these cookies never fail to bring a bit of fall magic to the table.
Recipe Details:
Ingredients List:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon and nutmeg blend)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, and melted butter until smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour and pumpkin pie spice, mixing until the dough forms.
- Shape Cookies: Use a spoon to drop dough onto the baking sheet, spacing each cookie about 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and slightly golden around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Allow cookies to cool on a rack before enjoying.
Unique Tips, Variations, and Insights:
- Customization Tips: Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flavor. Substitute whole-wheat flour for added fiber.
- Expert Advice: For a fluffier texture, add 1/2 tsp baking powder. If you prefer a crispier cookie, bake an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Cultural Context: Pumpkin treats are popular in North American fall traditions, symbolizing harvest season and festivities like Halloween and Thanksgiving.
Nutrition Facts (per cookie, approx. 12 cookies):
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 1g
FAQ Section:
Q1: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
- Yes! Roast and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth for a similar flavor, though fresh pumpkin may yield a slightly different texture.
Q2: How should I store these cookies?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate to extend freshness.
Conclusion:
These 5-ingredient pumpkin cookies are simple yet bursting with cozy fall flavors. Perfect for sharing, they make a great weekend baking project for anyone craving autumn warmth. Try them and share your take—add-ins, frosting, or even gluten-free versions!
