Introduction

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious treats. One delightful addition to your holiday spread is Thanksgiving cookies filled with pumpkin pie filling. These cookies offer the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie, but with the fun twist of a cookie format, making them a perfect dessert for gatherings. Imagine biting into a soft, sweet cookie that reveals a creamy pumpkin filling—it’s a flavor combination that captures the essence of the season.

For young professionals who love homemade food but may be short on time, these cookies are an ideal solution. They combine the festive taste of Thanksgiving with the ease of a straightforward baking process. Not only do they satisfy sweet cravings, but they also make for a thoughtful gift or a festive treat to share with colleagues and loved ones. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, stored, or even frozen for later enjoyment. So, why not elevate your holiday baking this year with these scrumptious Thanksgiving cookies with pumpkin pie filling? They are sure to become a seasonal favorite that you’ll want to bake year after year.

Key Ingredients

When making Thanksgiving cookies with pumpkin pie filling, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that perfect blend of flavors and textures. Here’s a closer look at the key components that make these cookies irresistible.

Dough

Unsalted Butter (1 cup): Softened to room temperature, this key ingredient helps create a rich, tender cookie base that melts in your mouth. It adds moisture and flavor, essential for a delightful cookie.

Granulated Sugar (1 cup): This sweetener not only provides sweetness but also contributes to the cookie’s structure and texture, ensuring a satisfying bite.

Large Eggs (2): Eggs bind the ingredients together and add richness to the dough, giving the cookies their soft and chewy texture.

Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a warm, comforting note that complements the spices.

All-Purpose Flour (3 cups): The foundation of the cookie dough, flour provides the necessary structure. It balances the moisture from the butter and pumpkin puree to create a perfectly baked cookie.

Baking Powder (1 teaspoon) & Baking Soda (1/2 teaspoon): These leavening agents help the cookies rise, giving them a light and fluffy texture while preventing them from being too dense.

Salt (1/2 teaspoon): A pinch of salt elevates the sweetness and balances the flavors, making each bite more satisfying.

Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) & Ground Nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): These warm spices evoke the essence of fall and Thanksgiving, adding depth and a cozy aroma to the cookies.

Filling

Pumpkin Puree (1 cup): The star ingredient in this recipe, pumpkin puree adds moisture and a rich flavor that embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving. It’s also packed with nutrients, making these cookies a slightly healthier treat.

Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup): Used for sweetness in the filling, powdered sugar dissolves easily, creating a smooth and creamy texture.

Pumpkin Pie Spice (1 teaspoon): This blend of spices enhances the pumpkin flavor and brings in the classic taste of pumpkin pie, making the filling irresistible.

With these key ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating Thanksgiving cookies that are not only delicious but also reminiscent of the cozy holiday spirit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thanksgiving cookies with pumpkin pie filling are the perfect blend of holiday flavors and easy baking. These cookies capture the essence of pumpkin pie in a fun, bite-sized treat that everyone can enjoy. With their soft texture and creamy filling, they are not only delicious but also evoke warm memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. Even if you’re a busy young professional, the straightforward steps make it easy to whip up a batch in no time. Plus, the ingredients are commonly found in your pantry, so you won’t have to make a special trip to the store. Imagine surprising your friends or coworkers with these delightful cookies, sharing the spirit of the season without spending hours in the kitchen.

Additionally, these cookies are versatile. They can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, making them an excellent choice for meal prep or holiday gifting. So, whether you’re looking to impress at a potluck or simply treat yourself, this recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.

Variations

When it comes to Thanksgiving cookies with pumpkin pie filling, the possibilities are endless. You can easily customize these cookies to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at your gathering can enjoy them.

Alternative Fillings

One way to switch things up is to try different fillings. Instead of traditional pumpkin pie filling, consider using a cream cheese filling or a spiced apple filling for a unique twist. Both options pair beautifully with the cookie base and offer a delightful surprise.

Gluten-Free Option

For those who are gluten-sensitive, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that your other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free. This variation allows everyone to partake in the deliciousness without missing out on the holiday spirit.

Add-ins and Toppings

Feel free to add a personal touch with mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries. These additions can enhance the flavor and texture of your cookies, making them even more special. For a finishing touch, dust the cookies with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce to elevate their presentation.

With these variations, you can create a batch of Thanksgiving cookies that is not only delicious but also uniquely yours. Tailoring the recipe to fit your preferences means everyone can indulge in the holiday spirit, making your baking experience even more rewarding.

Cooking Tips and Notes

Baking can be both an art and a science, particularly when it comes to creating Thanksgiving cookies with pumpkin pie filling. Here are some helpful tips and notes to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

Prepping Ahead

One great way to save time is to prepare your ingredients in advance. Measure out your dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, and spices the night before. This makes the actual baking process much quicker and allows you to enjoy your time with family and friends.

Perfecting the Texture

For the best texture, make sure your butter is at room temperature before mixing. This helps it cream together smoothly with the sugar, leading to a lighter cookie. Additionally, avoid overmixing the dough once you add the flour; this can lead to dense cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft and chewy result.

Baking Tips

Watch your cookies closely as they bake. Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness at the 12-minute mark. Look for lightly golden edges and a soft center. Allowing them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack will help them set perfectly.

By following these tips, you’ll create delicious Thanksgiving cookies that are sure to impress. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions

Thanksgiving cookies with pumpkin pie filling are not just delicious on their own; they can be paired with a variety of delightful accompaniments to elevate your holiday treat experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of these festive cookies.

Beverages

Pair these cookies with warm beverages like spiced apple cider or a rich cup of coffee. The warmth of these drinks complements the flavors of pumpkin and spices beautifully, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for the holidays.

Presentation Ideas

For an inviting presentation, arrange the cookies on a decorative platter and dust them with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar. Adding a few cinnamon sticks or sprigs of fresh rosemary around the platter can enhance the seasonal feel and make your dessert table pop.

Gift Giving

These cookies also make for a thoughtful homemade gift. Package them in a cute box or a festive tin lined with parchment paper. Include a handwritten note with serving suggestions, like pairing them with ice cream or warm custard, for a personal touch that shows you care.

With these serving suggestions, you can turn simple Thanksgiving cookies into a centerpiece that delights your guests and enhances your holiday celebrations.

Time Breakdown

When preparing these delicious Thanksgiving cookies with pumpkin pie filling, understanding the time commitment can help you plan effectively. Here’s a quick breakdown of the time needed:

Preparation

25 minutes
Preparing the dough and filling is a simple process that can be done in about 25 minutes, especially if you have all your ingredients ready to go.

Cooking/Baking

15 minutes
Baking time is approximately 15 minutes, during which the cookies will transform into golden, soft delights filled with creamy goodness.

Total

40 minutes
In just 40 minutes, you can have a batch of delicious cookies ready to impress your friends and family. To save time, consider measuring out your ingredients the night before, making the baking process even smoother.

Nutritional Facts

When indulging in Thanksgiving cookies with pumpkin pie filling, it’s helpful to understand their nutritional profile. Each cookie contains approximately 180 calories, making them a delightful treat without overwhelming your diet. With 10 grams of sugar and 2 grams of protein, these cookies strike a balance between sweetness and sustenance. Additionally, they offer 1 gram of fiber, contributing to your daily intake. Enjoying these cookies in moderation can be part of a festive and healthy holiday season!

FAQ

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day you plan to bake. Just make sure to bring the dough back to room temperature before baking for the best results.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store your Thanksgiving cookies with pumpkin pie filling in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Can I substitute pumpkin puree with something else?

While pumpkin puree is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with other pureed fruits like sweet potato or butternut squash. However, this will alter the flavor profile slightly, so keep in mind that the cookies may taste different.

Conclusion

As the holiday season approaches, these Thanksgiving cookies with pumpkin pie filling become a delightful addition to your festive celebrations. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they capture the essence of fall in every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or enjoying them yourself, these cookies are sure to bring warmth and joy to your gatherings. Don’t forget to save this recipe so you can whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes—happy baking!

Print