Luscious Pumpkin Cinnamon Cheesecake Cookies

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Cheesecake Cookies are a delicious fall-inspired treat that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and warm spices with a soft, chewy texture. The slight tang from the pumpkin and spices makes these cookies irresistible, especially when paired with a cup of coffee or tea. Perfect for autumn gatherings or just a cozy snack, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup canned pumpkin
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin, white sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until well blended.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a greased or parchment-lined cookie sheet.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 25-27 minutes

Variations

• Cheesecake Filling: For a twist on the classic, pipe or scoop a bit of cheesecake filling (cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla) into the center of each cookie before baking for a creamy surprise.
• Spices: Add extra spices like ginger or allspice to enhance the fall flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Mix in some semi-sweet or white chocolate chips for added richness.
• Nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cookies by laying them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
• Reheating: Reheat cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy them warm.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin? Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but be sure to cook and puree it first until smooth. Canned pumpkin is convenient and ensures a consistent texture.
2. Do I need to refrigerate the dough before baking? No, the dough can be baked immediately. However, refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes will help the cookies hold their shape better if you prefer.
3. Can I substitute the vegetable oil? You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer flavor or use coconut oil for a slight coconut taste.
4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour.
5. Can I make these cookies dairy-free? To make these cookies dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based oil or margarine and ensure your baking soda and other ingredients are dairy-free.
6. How do I know when the cookies are done? The cookies should be slightly golden around the edges. You can also insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cookies are done.
7. Can I add raisins or cranberries to these cookies? Yes, raisins or dried cranberries would pair well with the pumpkin and spices, adding extra texture and sweetness.
8. Can I frost these cookies? You can frost these cookies with cream cheese frosting for an added indulgence, making them even more cheesecake-like.
9. Can I double this recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make more cookies. Just ensure you have enough space on your baking sheets.
10. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much? To prevent spreading, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking, and make sure you’re using the correct measurements for the flour.

Conclusion

These Luscious Pumpkin Cinnamon Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect fall dessert. They’re full of warm, comforting spices and the earthy sweetness of pumpkin, all wrapped in a soft, chewy cookie. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday gathering or just as a special treat for yourself, these cookies will be a hit. With their irresistible flavor and easy preparation, they are a must-try this season!

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