Pumpkin Spice Halloween Cookies: A Heartfelt and Spooky Delight
Introduction
Infuse your Halloween celebrations with the warm, comforting flavors of autumn by baking a batch of these Pumpkin Spice Halloween Cookies. Their delightful spice blend, paired with festive decorations, makes them the perfect treat for both little ghouls and grown-ups. Ready to embark on a delightful baking adventure? Subscribe to receive this recipe right in your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are a wonderful celebration of fall flavors with a spooky twist. The recipe is simple enough for an afternoon baking session yet impressive enough to delight your party guests. The combination of pumpkin and spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg creates a comforting aroma and taste that’s synonymous with the season. Plus, decorating them with royal icing is not only fun but lets you showcase your creativity. Gather your loved ones and turn baking these cookies into a festive family activity!
Ingredients
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup packed brown sugar
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Halloween-themed cookie cutters
– Royal icing in assorted colors (orange, black, white, green)
Necessary Tools
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Hand mixer or stand mixer
– Plastic wrap
– Rolling pin
– Baking sheets
– Parchment paper
– Wire racks
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture. For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. If you prefer a mild spice, adjust the cinnamon and ginger to your liking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. **Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream the butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
4. Combine and Chill: Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Divide the dough into two portions, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Shape and Bake: Roll out the dough to a ¼-inch thickness. Use Halloween-themed cookie cutters to shape the cookies. Place them on prepared sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.
6. Cool and Decorate: Let the cookies cool on wire racks. Once cool, decorate with royal icing, creating your favorite spooky designs.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these cookies with a hot cup of cider or your favorite autumn beverage. They make a great addition to Halloween parties, or as a sweet gift for neighbors and friends.
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure the butter is softened for easy mixing.
– Use a light touch when rolling out the dough to prevent sticking.
– Experiment with icing designs to add your unique touch.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer and thaw before serving.
FAQ Section
– Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned? Yes, but ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
– Can I prepare the dough in advance? Absolutely! The dough can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Spice Halloween Cookies offer a perfect blend of spookiness and deliciousness. Easy to make, enjoy the joy of decorating, and savor the flavors of the season. Don’t forget to share your creations on Pinterest or Instagram!
Nutritional Information
Approximate per cookie: Calories: 120, Fat: 6g, Carbohydrates: 16g, Protein: 1g
