Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies – Soft, Chewy & Packed with Fall Flavor

Nothing captures the cozy essence of autumn quite like the warm, spiced flavors of Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies. These chewy, hearty, and flavor-packed treats are a delightful blend of rolled oats, pumpkin puree, and aromatic spices that make them a must-bake during the fall season. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday party, or simply craving a comforting snack, this pumpkin spice cookie recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your collection.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from key ingredients and step-by-step instructions to expert baking tips, storage recommendations, and frequently asked questions. So, grab your apron, and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies

There’s no shortage of reasons to love these pumpkin spice cookies. Here are just a few:

• Soft and Chewy Texture: The combination of oats and pumpkin puree creates an irresistible, chewy cookie that’s both hearty and tender.
• Perfect Fall Flavors: Infused with pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and brown sugar, each bite is packed with autumnal warmth.
• Healthier Alternative: With fiber-rich oats and pumpkin puree, these cookies offer a more nutritious option compared to traditional sugar-laden treats.
• Easy to Customize: Whether you love chocolate chips, raisins, pecans, or walnuts, these cookies are versatile enough to accommodate your favorite mix-ins.
• Simple to Make: This is a beginner-friendly recipe that requires just a handful of steps and basic pantry ingredients.

Key Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Cookies:

• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats (1 ½ cups): The base of these cookies, providing texture and chewiness.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 ¼ cups): Helps bind the ingredients together and provides structure.
• Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Acts as a leavening agent, giving the cookies a slight rise.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice (1 ½ teaspoons): The signature spice blend that gives these cookies their distinctive fall flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon (½ teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the spice profile.
• Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened): Contributes to the cookies’ rich and tender texture.
• Brown Sugar (¾ cup, packed): Adds moisture, a deep caramelized sweetness, and chewiness.
• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup): Helps balance the sweetness and adds a slight crispness.
• Pumpkin Puree (½ cup): The star ingredient, providing moisture and a mild pumpkin flavor.
• Large Egg (1): Acts as a binder, holding the cookie dough together.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances overall flavor with a subtle hint of warmth.
• Chocolate Chips or Raisins (½ cup, optional): Adds sweetness and texture.
• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (½ cup, optional): Provides crunch and a nutty richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and creamy.
4. Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract, blending until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips, raisins, or nuts if using.

2. Bake the Cookies

7. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Serve & Store

10. Enjoy warm, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies

• Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugar and spices that can alter the recipe.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so mix until just combined.
• Chill the Dough: If your dough is too soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking to prevent excessive spreading.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Butter and eggs at room temperature ensure even mixing and a uniform texture.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the granulated sugar by a couple of tablespoons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?

Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

2. Can I Freeze Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies?

Absolutely! Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To freeze the cookie dough, scoop portions onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.

3. How Do I Keep These Cookies Soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The bread helps maintain moisture, keeping the cookies soft for days.

4. Can I Add More Mix-Ins?

Definitely! Consider adding white chocolate chips, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or sunflower seeds for extra flavor and texture.

5. What Can I Serve With These Cookies?

Pair them with a warm pumpkin spice latte, chai tea, hot cocoa, or a glass of milk for the ultimate fall treat.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies perfectly capture the essence of fall with their warm spices, soft texture, and irresistible flavor. Whether you’re making them for a cozy night in, a holiday gathering, or as a homemade gift, they are sure to be a hit.

Now that you have the ultimate pumpkin spice cookie recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking. Enjoy the warm, spiced goodness of these cookies and embrace the flavors of autumn with every bite!

Print