If you’re craving warm, spiced comfort during the fall season, pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies are just what you need.
These cookies take the classic cinnamon-sugar snickerdoodle and give it a seasonal makeover with pumpkin purée and autumn spices.
The result? A soft, chewy, flavorful treat that screams fall with every bite.
Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in, a festive gathering, or just because, these cookies are sure to become your new go-to fall dessert.
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Why Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies Are a Must-Try
Traditional snickerdoodles are known for their soft texture, cinnamon-sugar coating, and signature tang from cream of tartar.
When you add pumpkin into the mix, you get an even more tender cookie with rich autumn flavors.
Pumpkin purée not only enhances the taste but also gives the cookies a beautiful golden hue and ultra-moist texture.
They’re perfect for:
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Autumn bake sales
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Halloween or Thanksgiving parties
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Pairing with a hot cup of tea or coffee
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Gifting to neighbors or friends
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Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make a batch of delicious pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies:
For the Dough:
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1/3 cup brown sugar
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1/3 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 tsp baking powder
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1/4 tsp baking soda
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/4 tsp nutmeg
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1/4 tsp ground ginger
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1/4 tsp cream of tartar (optional but adds a classic snickerdoodle tang)
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.
3. Add the Pumpkin and Vanilla
Mix in the pumpkin purée and vanilla extract until well combined. The dough may look slightly curdled at first, but that’s normal.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cream of tartar. Gradually add this to the wet mixture and stir until combined. Don’t overmix.
5. Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)
For easier rolling and better texture, chill the dough for 30–60 minutes.
6. Form and Coat
In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar for coating. Scoop 1-tablespoon portions of dough, roll into balls, and coat in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
7. Bake
Place the dough balls on your baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball with your fingers or the bottom of a glass. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set and centers look slightly underdone.
8. Cool and Serve
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
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Storage Tips
Pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies stay soft for days! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
You can also freeze the cookies for up to 3 months—perfect for prepping ahead of the holidays.
Tasty Add-In Ideas
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White Chocolate Chips – Add 1/2 cup for a creamy twist
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Chopped Pecans – Introduce a crunchy, nutty layer
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Maple Glaze – Drizzle a quick glaze made of powdered sugar and maple syrup on top
FAQs About Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies
Q: Can I skip chilling the dough?
Yes, but chilling helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and improves flavor.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! Roll into balls, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen—just add 1–2 extra minutes.
Also Check: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies are a comforting, flavorful spin on a beloved classic.
They’re soft, spiced, and perfect for every autumn occasion.
Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of cider or sharing with loved ones, these cookies bring all the warmth and sweetness of the season in every bite.
So grab your whisk, your pumpkin, and your cinnamon—and get baking!
