Classic Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

When the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin fills the air, it’s hard not to feel the warmth of the season. Pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies bring together the chewy, buttery goodness of traditional snickerdoodles with the rich, spiced flavor of pumpkin. Whether you’re looking to try a new holiday favorite or searching for the perfect fall dessert, this classic pumpkin snickerdoodle cookie recipe will not disappoint.

These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with autumnal spices that’ll make even the gloomiest fall day feel cozy. Stick around as we walk you through the secrets to making perfect pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies—down to the golden edges and gooey centers.

What Makes Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies Special?

Pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies combine two iconic flavors—pumpkin spice and cinnamon sugar. The inclusion of pumpkin puree gives these cookies a soft, moist texture, while the cinnamon-sugar coating delivers a signature crunch with every bite. Unlike traditional snickerdoodles, these cookies also feature the warm blend of nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for that unmistakable pumpkin spice flavor.

Whether you’re baking chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies as an afternoon treat or crafting gluten-free pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies for a family gathering, this recipe guarantees smiles all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these easy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative for gluten-free pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies)
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar (important for the signature tang)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon pumpkin spice mix (a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (or brown butter for extra depth)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• ¾ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie mix)
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Coating

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take these up a notch by adding a cream cheese center, creating pumpkin cream cheese snickerdoodle cookies!

Step-By-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Mix the sugar coating by combining the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl, then set it aside.

Step 2: Create the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and salt. Set the mixture aside.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars

Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential for giving your cookies that soft and chewy texture.

3. Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 3: Roll and Coat

Scoop the dough using a small cookie scoop (about 1 ½ tablespoons) and roll each portion into a ball. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar coating, ensuring an even layer.

If you’re making pumpkin cheesecake snickerdoodle cookies, flatten each dough ball slightly and insert a small dollop of cream cheese into the center before reshaping it back into a ball.

Step 4: Bake

Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just set, and the tops look slightly puffy. The cookies will continue to set as they cool.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now, it’s finally time to enjoy your delicious pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies!

Variations to Try

1. Brown Butter Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Brown the butter before mixing to give your cookies a nutty, toasty flavor. It’s a simple way to elevate the classic recipe.

2. Pumpkin Cheesecake Snickerdoodle Cookies

Stuff your cookies with a cheesecake filling for a decadent surprise. These are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a luxurious treat for yourself.

3. Gluten-Free Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Swap out the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour. These gluten-free cookies are just as chewy and flavorful as the original.

4. Trader Joe’s Inspired

Add a twist with some crushed Trader Joe’s pumpkin spice cookies incorporated into the dough for an extra crunch and flavor boost.

5. Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Cookies

Combine softened cream cheese into the dough itself for a richer, tangier profile.

Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies Every Time

• Chill the Dough

For even chewier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much.

• Use Real Pumpkin Puree

Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling which contains added sugars and spices.

• Don’t Overbake

For soft and chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies, take them out of the oven as soon as the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underdone.

• Measure Precisely

Baking is a science, so measure your ingredients accurately to ensure consistent results.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

These pumpkin-infused cookies are the ultimate fall indulgence. The warm spices, tender crumb, and sugary coating create a flavor-packed treat that’s perfect for cozy nights, fall parties, or even as a Thanksgiving dessert.

Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also endlessly versatile. From pumpkin cheesecake snickerdoodle cookies to gluten-free variations, there’s a version for everyone to enjoy. Plus, they pair wonderfully with a cup of hot cider or your favorite latte.

Final Thoughts

Classic pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies are a must-try for any cookie lover looking to spice up their baking lineup. With their perfect balance of spices and textures, they’re guaranteed to bring a little extra joy to your fall baking adventures.

Bonus Tip

Double the batch—these cookies disappear fast!

Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of these irresistible pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies.