Spiced Pumpkin Drop Cookies Recipe

Ah, the Spiced Pumpkin Drop Cookies – a true gem in the crown of holiday baking! These cookies are not just treats; they’re little parcels of Christmas joy, infused with the warmth of spices and the comforting embrace of pumpkin. As a seasoned pastry chef, I’m thrilled to share this recipe, a favorite in my kitchen, especially during the festive season. This recipe yields about 24 cookies, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Ingredients:

1. All-purpose flour – 2 1/4 cups
2. Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
3. Baking soda – 1/2 teaspoon
4. Ground cinnamon – 1 1/2 teaspoons
5. Ground nutmeg – 1/2 teaspoon
6. Ground ginger – 1/2 teaspoon
7. Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
8. Unsalted butter, softened – 1/2 cup
9. Granulated sugar – 1 cup
10. Pumpkin puree – 1 cup (not pumpkin pie filling)
11. Large egg – 1
12. Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
13. Optional: Chopped pecans or walnuts – 1/2 cup

For the Glaze:

1. Powdered sugar – 2 cups
2. Milk – 3 tablespoons
3. Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
4. Ground cinnamon – a pinch

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Pumpkin: Mix in the pumpkin puree, followed by the egg and vanilla extract, blending well.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
6. Drop the Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. Prepare the Glaze: While cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth.
9. Glaze the Cookies: Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled cookies.
10. Enjoy: Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Chef’s Tips:

• Pumpkin Puree: Ensure you’re using pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which has added spices and sugar.
• Spice Blend: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. A pinch of cloves or allspice can add an extra depth of flavor.
• Cookie Size: For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop or a measuring tablespoon.
• Glaze Consistency: If the glaze is too thick, add milk a teaspoon at a time. If too thin, add more powdered sugar.

These Spiced Pumpkin Drop Cookies are a celebration of the holiday season, embodying the warmth and joy of Christmas. The aroma of spices mingling with pumpkin will fill your kitchen, creating an ambiance of festive cheer. Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring these delightful treats! 🍪🎄