As autumn’s chill sets in, it’s a wonderful opportunity to bake cookies that perfectly reflect the season’s flavors. Think of the comforting scents of pumpkin, spice, and apple filling your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
These fall cookie ideas offer delicious ways to savor the season, making them ideal for any gathering or a cozy night in. Explore recipes that bring together classic autumn ingredients to make every bite a seasonal delight, capturing the essence of fall in each delectable treat.
Recipes
1. Pumpkin Spice Cookies
These Pumpkin Spice Cookies are like a warm hug in cookie form. With the perfect blend of pumpkin and aromatic spices, each bite is a cozy, flavorful experience that makes you want to savor autumn all year round. The soft, cake-like texture paired with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg makes these cookies a delightful treat for any occasion.
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 minutes | 12 minutes | Dessert | American | Mixing bowl, Baking sheet | 10 |
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 cup canned pumpkin
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp cloves
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and pumpkin.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. Gradually add to the pumpkin mixture.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are set. Let cool before serving.
Serve with: A cup of hot apple cider or a warm chai latte.
Drink with: A rich, creamy latte or a spiced hot chocolate.
2. Maple Pecan Cookies
Imagine biting into a cookie that’s crispy on the edges and chewy in the middle, with a delightful crunch of pecans and a hint of maple sweetness. These Maple Pecan Cookies are perfect for those moments when you crave a treat that’s both sophisticated and comforting, ideal for a cozy afternoon snack.
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
20 minutes | 12 minutes | Dessert | American | Mixing bowl, Baking sheet | 8 |
Ingredients:
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 egg
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream the butter and brown sugar until smooth. Stir in maple syrup and egg.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture.
- Fold in the pecans.
- Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
Serve with: A small glass of milk or a cup of earl grey tea.
Drink with: A warm cup of spiced coffee or a cold glass of almond milk.
3. Apple Cinnamon Cookies
These Apple Cinnamon Cookies are a fantastic fusion of tender, chewy cookies with chunks of fresh apple and a warm cinnamon twist. They’re like a portable version of your favorite apple pie, perfect for when you want a sweet treat with a comforting, fruity edge.
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
20 minutes | 15 minutes | Dessert | American | Mixing bowl, Baking sheet | 9 |
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 cup finely chopped apples
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg.
- Mix flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt, then add to the butter mixture.
- Fold in the chopped apples.
- Drop dough onto a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until lightly golden.
Serve with: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Drink with: A hot cup of spiced cider or a chilled glass of apple juice.
4. Snickerdoodles
Snickerdoodles are a classic, beloved cookie known for their soft, chewy texture and sweet, spicy coating of cinnamon sugar. They’re the perfect choice when you want a simple yet irresistible treat that always brings a smile to your face.
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 minutes | 10 minutes | Dessert | American | Mixing bowl, Baking sheet | 8 |
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp cream of tartar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs.
- Combine flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to the butter mixture.
- Mix 3 tbsp sugar with cinnamon. Roll dough into balls, then coat in cinnamon sugar.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
Serve with: A glass of cold milk or a cup of herbal tea.
Drink with: A cozy hot chocolate or a refreshing iced tea.
5. Molasses Cookies
Molasses Cookies are deeply spiced and full of rich, caramelized flavor. They offer a unique sweetness with a hint of ginger, cloves, and cinnamon, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season or any time you want to enjoy a taste of tradition.
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 minutes | 10 minutes | Dessert | American | Mixing bowl, Baking sheet | 9 |
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 egg
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp cloves
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in molasses and egg.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and spices. Gradually add to the butter mixture.
- Roll dough into balls and place on a baking sheet. Flatten slightly.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are crisp.
Serve with: A cup of chai tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Drink with: A strong cup of coffee or a warm glass of spiced cider.
6. Gingerbread Cookies
Gingerbread Cookies are a festive delight with their spicy, sweet aroma and beautifully decorated appearance. They’re not just tasty; they’re also fun to make and decorate, making them a perfect choice for holiday baking or anytime you want to bring a bit of cheer.
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
20 minutes | 10 minutes | Dessert | American | Mixing bowl, Rolling pin, Cookie cutters | 10 |
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 cup molasses
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp cloves
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in egg and molasses.
- In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and spices. Gradually add to the butter mixture.
- Roll out dough and cut into shapes. Place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are crisp. Cool before decorating.
Serve with: A glass of warm milk or a festive cup of hot cocoa.
Drink with: A spicy ginger ale or a comforting cup of tea.
7. Caramel Apple Cookies
Get ready to fall in love with these Caramel Apple Cookies! They blend the comforting flavors of warm apple pie with gooey caramel into one irresistible treat. Each bite offers a chewy cookie with chunks of crisp apple and a sweet caramel surprise. Perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a delightful gift!
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
20 mins | 12 mins | Dessert | American | Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet | 11 |
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped apples (peeled and cored)
- 1/2 cup caramel bits
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the chopped apples and caramel bits.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve with: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Drink with: A warm cup of cinnamon tea or a glass of cold milk.
8. Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies
These Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies are a delightful autumn twist on a classic treat. They combine the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices with sweet chocolate chips for a cookie that’s both soft and full of comforting flavors. Perfect for the season or any time you need a cozy snack!
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 mins | 12 mins | Dessert | American | Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet | 10 |
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Gradually stir this into the wet ingredients until well blended. Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and slightly golden around the edges.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve with: A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Drink with: A hot spiced cider or a cold glass of milk.
9. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are a timeless classic, and these ones are no exception! They boast a hearty texture from oats and a natural sweetness from plump raisins. With a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, these cookies are perfect for any time you crave a comforting, wholesome treat.
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
15 mins | 10 mins | Dessert | American | Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet | 10 |
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add this to the butter mixture. Stir in the oats and raisins.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve with: A spoonful of Greek yogurt or a small piece of dark chocolate.
Drink with: A glass of cold milk or a cup of hot tea.
10. Chai Spice Cookies
Chai Spice Cookies bring the warm, aromatic flavors of chai tea into a delicious cookie form. With a blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, these cookies are perfect for when you want to enjoy a cozy, spiced treat that’s a bit different from the usual.
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
20 mins | 10 mins | Dessert | American | Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet | 11 |
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, mixing until combined.
- Roll the dough into balls and place on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Serve with: A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Drink with: A cup of chai tea or a glass of warm spiced milk.
11. Pecan Pie Cookies
Pecan Pie Cookies offer a delightful twist on a Southern classic. Imagine the rich, nutty flavor of pecan pie wrapped in a chewy cookie, with a gooey center and a crunchy pecan topping. These cookies are a perfect treat for holiday gatherings or any time you want to impress with a unique, delicious bite.
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
30 mins | 12 mins | Dessert | American | Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet | 12 |
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for filling)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for filling)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- For the filling, mix the corn syrup, brown sugar, and chopped pecans. Scoop a small amount of dough onto the baking sheet, press a small indentation in the center, and fill with a teaspoon of the pecan filling.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the filling is set. Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Serve with: A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Drink with: A glass of sweet tea or a cup of hot coffee.
12. Cranberry Orange Cookies
Cranberry Orange Cookies are like a burst of festive cheer in every bite. The tartness of cranberries combined with the bright, zesty flavor of orange creates a cookie that’s both refreshing and comforting. Ideal for adding a splash of color and flavor to your holiday cookie platter or just enjoying with a cup of tea.
Prep Time | Cook Time | Course | Cuisine | Equipment | No. of Ingredients |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
20 mins | 12 mins | Dessert | American | Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet | 11 |
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup orange juice
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix into the butter mixture. Fold in the cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Serve with: A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a light glaze made from orange juice and powdered sugar.
Drink with: A cup of herbal tea or a glass of sparkling water with a slice of orange.