Hey, friend! Ever bite into a cookie so warm and pumpkin-spiced it feels like a cozy fall hug? Let me introduce you to Crumbl pumpkin pie cookies, a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s like your favorite pumpkin pie in cookie form. I baked these for a Friendsgiving last week, and they disappeared faster than my phone battery during a TikTok binge! Ready to whip up a batch that’ll make your kitchen smell like a fall bakery? Let’s get mixing!
Why These Crumbl Pumpkin Pie Cookies Are a Total Winner
So, what’s the hype with these cookies? They’re not just cookies—they’re a soft, spiced masterpiece that combines pumpkin pie flavors with a creamy frosting. I mean, who can resist that buttery, cinnamon-y goodness? Here’s why this recipe rocks:
- Quick and Easy: Done in 40 minutes, perfect for fall gatherings or cravings.
- Fall Flavors: Pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg scream cozy season.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties, desserts, or gifting to friends.
- Decadent Frosting: A creamy topping takes these cookies to the next level.
Ever wonder why pumpkin desserts feel so comforting? It’s that warm, spiced vibe that makes these Crumbl pumpkin pie cookies a star.
The Magic of Pumpkin and Spice
The stars here are pumpkin puree and warm spices, which create a soft, flavorful cookie with a pie-like texture. Butter adds richness, while cream cheese frosting brings a tangy-sweet finish. I learned the hard way that too much pumpkin makes them gummy—measure carefully! It’s like a slice of pumpkin pie in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Alright, let’s talk ingredients. This recipe uses pantry staples to create that Crumbl-inspired flavor. Here’s what you’ll grab:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Optional: 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice for dusting 🙂
Substitutions That Work
No pumpkin puree? Canned sweet potato puree works, but pumpkin’s flavor is key, IMO. Out of brown sugar? Granulated sugar with a touch of molasses does the trick. Want it gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour with a 1:1 ratio. The key is that pumpkin-spice vibe, so don’t skip the spices or pumpkin!
Step-by-Step: How to Make Crumbl Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Ready to bake? This is so easy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Here’s how to nail it:
Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Scoop dough into 2-tbsp balls and place 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
- Flatten each dough ball slightly with your hand or a glass.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are set and centers are soft.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
Step 4: Make the Frosting and Serve
- Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread or pipe frosting onto cooled cookies.
- Dust with pumpkin pie spice for a festive touch, and serve!
Pro tip: I once used too much pumpkin, and my cookies were stickier than a bad date. Measure pumpkin puree carefully for perfect soft cookies!
Tips for Nailing Crumbl Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Wanna make these cookies next-level? Here are my go-to tricks:
- Measure Pumpkin Precisely: Too much pumpkin puree makes cookies gummy.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix dough just until combined for a soft texture.
- Chill Dough if Sticky: Refrigerate dough for 15 minutes for easier scooping.
- Cool Before Frosting: Let cookies cool fully to avoid melting frosting.
- Store Properly: Keep cookies airtight to maintain softness.
Ever wonder why Crumbl cookies are so addictive? It’s the perfect balance of soft texture and bold flavors that make these pumpkin pie cookies a total hit.
Variations to Mix It Up
Bored of the classic? Try these twists to keep things fresh:
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Add ½ cup chocolate chips to the dough for extra decadence.
Spiced Nut Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Mix in ¼ cup chopped pecans for a crunchy, nutty twist.
Maple Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Swap vanilla extract in the frosting for maple extract for a fall vibe.
Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Use vegan butter and cream cheese for a plant-based version.
Storing and Reusing Like a Pro
Got leftovers? You’re in luck! Here’s how to keep those cookies fresh:
- Storing: Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days or in the fridge for 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months in freezer-safe bags.
- Reusing: Thaw frozen cookies and frost fresh, or warm in the oven at 325°F for 5 minutes.
I’ve turned leftover cookies into a dessert parfait with whipped cream, and it was a total game-changer. Keep them airtight for that soft, spiced vibe!
FAQs About Crumbl Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Got questions? I’ve got you covered. Here’s what folks usually ask:
Can I use fresh pumpkin?
Yup! Roast and puree fresh pumpkin, but canned is more consistent.
Why are my cookies flat?
You might’ve overmixed or used too much pumpkin. Measure carefully.
Can I make these ahead?
Totally! Bake cookies up to 2 days ahead and frost before serving.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and check your spices for a gluten-free version.
What’s a good pairing for these?
These cookies shine with coffee, chai tea, or hot cocoa. I love them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Related Recipes:
- Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls: Easy Dinner Roll Recipe
- Pistachio Pudding Bread: Easy, Moist, and Flavorful Recipe
- Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it—Crumbl pumpkin pie cookies, the ultimate soft, spiced treat that’s ready to bring fall vibes to any occasion. It’s like a pumpkin pie in cookie form, perfect for gatherings, snacks, or cozy nights in. Whether you’re sticking to the classic or adding your own spin, these cookies deliver big on flavor with minimal effort. Grab your pumpkin puree, fire up the oven, and get ready for a batch that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. What’s stopping you from baking these tonight? 🙂