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Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies — Soft, Spiced & Cozy

These Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies are everything we love about fall baking: soft, warmly spiced, full of pumpkin flavor, and rolled in a cinnamon-sugar coating that adds sweetness and just the right amount of sparkle. The pumpkin puree keeps these cookies tender and moist, while the blend of cinnamon and pumpkin spice gives them that nostalgic autumn aroma. With chewy centers, gently crisp edges, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are absolutely irresistible. They’re perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or simply enjoying with a warm drink.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
bake time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin spice
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • ⅝ cup about ⅔ cup dark brown sugar, packed
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • ⅔ cup pumpkin puree Libby’s recommended
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Optional pinch pumpkin spice for extra fall flavor

✨ Kitchen Essentials You’ll Love

Quick picks I trust for better results, faster prep, and easier cleanup.

  • 🍳

    Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

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  • ⚡

    Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric

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  • 🔥

    CHEFMAN Digital Air Fryer XL 10L

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Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Wire cooling rack

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat & Prep
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
  1. In a bowl, whisk together:
  2. flour
  3. baking soda
  4. cream of tartar
  5. cinnamon
  6. pumpkin spice
  7. salt
  8. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugars
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and ¾ cup granulated sugar for 2–3 minutes, until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Pumpkin & Egg Yolks
  1. Add egg yolks, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract.
  2. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine
  1. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients.
  2. Mix on low just until dough forms — do not overmix.
Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
  1. In a small bowl, mix the ¼ cup granulated sugar and cinnamon.
Step 7: Shape & Coat
  1. Scoop dough into balls (about 1 ½ tablespoons each).
  2. Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar coating.
  3. Place on baking sheet with space between cookies.
Step 8: Bake
  1. Bake 9–12 minutes, until edges are set and centers look soft.
  2. They will continue to set as they cool.
Step 9: Cool
  1. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
To warm, microwave for 8 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven softness.
🥄 Variations
Extra Cinnamon Sugar Sparkle:
Double roll the dough for more coating.
Brown Butter Upgrade:
Brown the butter before mixing for deeper nutty flavor.
Maple Drizzle:
Mix powdered sugar + maple syrup + splash of milk for a glaze.
Chunky Version:
Fold in white chocolate chips or toffee bits.
Nutty Fall Twist:
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for texture.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use pumpkin pie filling?
No — use pure pumpkin puree only.
Why only egg yolks?
They help keep cookies extra chewy instead of cakey.
Can I chill the dough?
Optional — chilling 20–30 minutes makes thicker cookies.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes — reduce added salt to a small pinch.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
Dough was too warm — chill briefly before baking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes — doubles beautifully.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Why do pumpkin cookies sometimes get cakey?
Too much moisture — stick to exact measurements.
How do I get crackly tops?
Roll well in sugar and bake at the correct temperature.
Are they good for gifting?
Yes — they stay soft for days and smell incredible.
🏁 Conclusion
These Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies are warm, soft, and full of autumn flavors. The cinnamon sugar coating, the cozy pumpkin spice aroma, and the tender chewy texture make these cookies a seasonal must-bake. Ideal for fall gatherings, cozy nights, or simply treating yourself — these cookies feel like a hug in every bite.
Soft. Spiced. Chewy.
Pure fall comfort.