Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies
Introduction
As the leaves turn and a crispness fills the air, it’s that magical time of year when pumpkin spice flavors reign supreme! These Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect embodiment of fall; they’re soft, chewy, and bursting with warm spices. Imagine biting into a cookie that smells like freshly baked pumpkin pie while enjoying a cozy drink! You’ll definitely want to subscribe for more delightful recipes like this one!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Why are these pumpkin spice oatmeal cookies so irresistible? First off, the flavor is simply divine! The combination of pumpkin, oats, and warming spices creates a comforting hug in cookie form. They are easy to prepare, making them a fantastic project for family baking days. Plus, they’re adaptable—feel free to skip the added sugars if you prefer a healthier version! These cookies bring joy and warmth to every gathering, leaving a delightful hint of autumn with each bite!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon ground allspice
– ½ teaspoon ground cloves
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 3 cups old-fashioned oats
– 1 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
– ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
Necessary Tools
– Large mixing bowl
– Electric mixer or whisk
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Baking sheets
– Parchment paper
– Cookie scoop or tablespoon
– Wire rack for cooling
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Want to mix things up? You can use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. Try swapping in whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or oatmeal flour for an extra chewy texture. Add-ins like dried cranberries or white chocolate chips can elevate these cookies, making them even more delightful!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and the rich pumpkin puree until everything is combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and salt to create the dry mix.
5. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
6. Fold in the oats, and if you want, add raisins or chocolate chips and chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
7. Drop tablespoon-sized cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, and the cookies are set in the middle.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few moments before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies shine on their own but consider serving them alongside a cup of warm apple cider or a steaming latte for a delightful autumn snack! They also make fantastic gifts; feel free to pack them beautifully in a jar and give them to friends and family!
Pro Tips for Success
– Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
– Don’t overmix the wet and dry ingredients—just blend until combined for the best texture.
– Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different!
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds, and enjoy that fresh-baked taste again!
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure it’s well-purged of moisture to maintain the right texture.
Q: How do I know when they are done baking?
A: The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers set. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Yes! You can freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Just thaw before baking!
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies are not only simple to make but also filled with the flavors of fall that everyone adores. They offer warmth, comfort, and a delightful sweetness that makes them perfect for any autumn gathering! If you try this recipe, I’d love for you to leave a review or share photos on social media to inspire others!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per cookie:
– Calories: 120
– Total Fat: 6g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Cholesterol: 30mg
– Sodium: 70mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 17g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 6g
– Protein: 1g
