Introduction:
There’s nothing like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Snickerdoodles filling your kitchen during the fall season. This twist on the classic snickerdoodle combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with cinnamon sugar to create a cookie that is both soft and chewy. Whether you’re looking for a cozy treat for a fall gathering or simply craving a delicious homemade dessert, these Pumpkin Snickerdoodles will not disappoint. Prepare to fall in love with this perfect seasonal snack!
Table of Contents
History or Background of Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
The snickerdoodle cookie is an iconic treat in American baking, known for its soft texture and dusting of cinnamon-sugar. While its exact origins are debated, many believe the name “snickerdoodle” comes from the German word “schneckennudeln,” meaning “snail noodles,” referring to the twisted shape of early versions. Traditionally, snickerdoodles were made with just butter, sugar, and cinnamon, but adding pumpkin puree to the mix offers a deliciously seasonal spin. Pumpkin Snickerdoodles became a popular fall favorite as people began experimenting with pumpkin flavors in baked goods. This variation incorporates warm spices, making it a perfect addition to autumn festivities, from Thanksgiving dinners to Halloween parties.
Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
These Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are not just a delicious fall treat – they come with a host of reasons to fall in love:
- Perfectly Soft and Chewy Texture: The combination of pumpkin puree and butter ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie.
- Fall-Inspired Flavors: With cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and a touch of vanilla, these cookies are packed with the best seasonal flavors.
- Easy to Make: Even beginners can create these cookies with minimal effort. Just mix, chill, roll, and bake!
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or simply want a comforting dessert, these Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are ideal.
- Kid-Friendly: Their delightful sweetness and fun cinnamon-sugar coating make them a hit with children and adults alike.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
To make these delicious Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled for at least 10 minutes
- ½ cup (100 g) sugar
- ⅓ cup (70 g) light brown sugar, tightly packed
- ¼ cup (73 g) pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg yolk
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose (plain) flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- ¼ cup (50 g) sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

How to Make Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
Making these Pumpkin Snickerdoodles is a breeze with these simple steps:
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, and brown sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Add the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the pumpkin mixture is evenly blended.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the dry ingredients and spices.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until the dough comes together. Ensure it’s well combined, but be careful not to overmix.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 45 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances their texture.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon for the topping.
- Form the Cookies: Once the dough has chilled, scoop out 1 ½ tablespoon-sized portions of dough. Roll them between your palms to form smooth balls, then roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Bake: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. This helps them firm up and ensures they’re not too soft to handle.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough for at least 45 minutes allows the flavors to meld and helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter is melted but cooled slightly and that your egg yolk is at room temperature. This ensures a smoother dough that is easier to mix.
- Don’t Over-Bake: These cookies should be soft and chewy, so keep an eye on them during baking. Take them out when the edges are just golden to ensure they don’t dry out.
Serving Ideas or Usage Tips
Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are perfect for various occasions, and here are a few ways to enjoy them:
- Pair with Hot Beverages: Serve these cookies with a warm mug of spiced cider, hot chocolate, or a pumpkin latte for the ultimate cozy fall experience.
- Great for Gift Giving: Package them in cute boxes or bags with a ribbon for a homemade, fall-inspired gift for friends and family.
- Perfect for Holiday Gatherings: These cookies are ideal for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or even fall-themed parties. They add a seasonal touch that guests will love.
Storage Advice or Shelf Life Information
Pumpkin Snickerdoodles will stay fresh for several days when stored properly:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4–5 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.
- Freezing: If you want to enjoy them later, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

FAQs About Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
1. Can I make Pumpkin Snickerdoodles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Chill it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the dough in advance and bake the cookies straight from the freezer!
2. How do I know when Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
3. Can I use pumpkin spice instead of pumpkin pie spice?
Yes, you can use pumpkin spice as a substitute for pumpkin pie spice. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still give the cookies a lovely fall aroma.
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Conclusion
These Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are the ultimate fall treat, combining the classic snickerdoodle’s softness and cinnamon-sugar coating with the rich, comforting flavor of pumpkin. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a cozy dessert, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and indulge in these delightful seasonal cookies today!

Amazing Pumpkin Snickerdoodles: The Ultimate Fall Treat
- Total Time: 1 hour 17 minutes
- Yield: 16 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are soft, chewy, and packed with the warm flavors of fall. A perfect treat for any autumn gathering!
Ingredients
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
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½ cup sugar
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⅓ cup light brown sugar
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¼ cup pumpkin puree
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1 large egg yolk
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¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ cup sugar (for topping)
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2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
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Combine melted butter, sugar, and brown sugar in a bowl and stir until smooth. Add pumpkin, egg yolk, and vanilla extract.
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In another bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until well-combined.
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Chill the dough in the fridge for at least 45 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Roll dough into 1 ½ tablespoon balls, coat in cinnamon-sugar, and place on the baking sheet.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, then allow to cool before serving.
Notes
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For a chewier texture, slightly under-bake the cookies and let them cool on the sheet.
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These cookies freeze well; just store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American