Name: Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies: Your Cozy Fall Indulgence
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 46 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salted Butter (Browned); 1/2 cup Honey (Substitute with maple syrup if desired); 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Regular salt works too, use less); 3/4 cup Dark Brown Sugar (Light brown sugar can be a substitute); 1 large Egg Yolk (For a vegan alternative, use 1 tablespoon of applesauce); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for best results); 1 cup Pure Pumpkin Puree (Not pumpkin pie filling); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Acts as a leavening agent); 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice (Substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger if needed); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend); 1/4 cup White Sugar (For rolling dough balls); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Optional mix with other spices); 1/4 teaspoon Flaked Sea Salt (Optional garnish); 1 cup White Sugar (For rolling); 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (For coating)

The aroma of spiced pumpkin wafting through the kitchen instantly takes me back to cozy autumn afternoons. If you’re looking to capture that essence in a cookie, then these Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies are your ticket. With their soft, chewy texture and the warm sweetness of honey, they are the perfect antidote to fast food fatigue—trust me! Made with simple ingredients, these delightful cookies are not only easy to whip up in just one bowl, but they also make for a fantastic treat that brings loved ones together around the table. Imagine baking a batch and wrapping them up for lunchboxes or enjoying them warm with a cup of chai. Are you ready to embrace the sweet side of fall?

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Them?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just one bowl needed, these cookies make for an easy and stress-free baking experience.

Warm, Comforting Flavors: Each bite is infused with cozy fall spices, combining the sweetness of honey and rich pumpkin.

Perfectly Chewy Texture: Soft and chewy with a delightful cinnamon-sugar crust that will keep you reaching for another.

Versatile Treat: Pair them with coffee for breakfast or serve with ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. If you want more cozy recipes, try these Honey Garlic Chicken or Banana Oatmeal Cookies.

Crowd-Pleaser: These Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies are sure to impress family and friends, making them an irresistible choice for gatherings or cozy afternoons!

Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookies

Salted Butter – Essential for richness and flavor; if using unsalted butter, add a pinch of salt.
Honey – Provides natural sweetness and flavor depth; you can substitute with maple syrup, but it will alter the taste.
Kosher Salt – Enhances the other flavors in the cookie; regular salt works too, but use less.
Dark Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a rich flavor; light brown sugar can substitute but yields less caramel flavor.
Egg Yolk – Adds richness and binds ingredients; for a vegan alternative, use 1 tablespoon of applesauce.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor; opt for pure vanilla for best results.
Pure Pumpkin Puree – Keeps cookies moist; be sure to use pumpkin puree, not pie filling, as they’re not interchangeable.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for rising; baking powder can substitute, but results may vary.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – A blend of warm spices to evoke fall; if you don’t have it, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger instead.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; for gluten-free, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
White Sugar – Used for rolling dough balls to create a sugary crust; adjust the amount to your taste.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor to the sugar coating; you can mix in other spices like nutmeg for a twist.
Flaked Sea Salt – Optional garnish for a flavor boost and crunchy texture contrast.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

White Sugar – Combine with ground cinnamon for rolling the cookie dough before baking.
Ground Cinnamon – This will give the cookies that festive fall touch when rolled in sugar.

These Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies are destined to become your new favorite treat, perfect for celebrating the season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, add salted butter and whisk frequently until the butter turns a deep amber color, about 5 minutes. This browning process brings out a rich flavor that will enhance your Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies. After browning, remove the pan from heat and allow the butter to cool for approximately 30 minutes.

Step 2: Mix Honey and Salt
In a mixing bowl, combine honey and kosher salt, stirring well until the salt is fully dissolved. This step creates a harmonious blend of sweetness and savory flavor that will elevate your cookies. Set the honey-salt mixture aside while you prepare the other ingredients, ensuring everything is ready for mixing.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup once your Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies are ready. It’s important to have the oven hot so your cookies bake to perfection with a delightful golden edge.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled browned butter, dark brown sugar, and the honey-salt mixture. Use a hand mixer or whisk to combine until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This rich base is essential for the soft, chewy texture you’ll get in your pumpkin cookies.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, stir in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and pure pumpkin puree until the mixture is well combined and smooth. The pumpkin puree is key to keeping your Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies moist and flavorful. Keep an eye out for any lumps—smooth batter is crucial for even baking.

Step 6: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and all-purpose flour into the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Your dough should be thick and slightly sticky, signaling it’s ready for the next step.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar
In a separate bowl, mix together the white sugar and ground cinnamon. This cinnamon sugar coating will create a delightful crunch on the outside of your cookies, adding an enticing visual and taste contrast to the soft pumpkin interior.

Step 8: Scoop and Roll
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet with at least 3 inches of space between each. Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly, transforming them into sweet, spiced gems destined for the oven.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. For the best texture, remove the cookies when they are slightly underdone in the center, as they will continue to cook on the sheet out of the oven.

Step 10: Cool on a Rack
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This brief cooling allows the cookies to firm up while ensuring a soft and chewy center remains intact. Enjoy the warm scent of your freshly baked Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Simply scoop the dough into balls and roll them in cinnamon sugar before refrigerating to maintain their shape and flavor. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften slightly. Pop them in the oven, and you’ll have delicious cookies just as fresh as if you made them that day. This prep-ahead strategy not only saves you time but ensures you always have a sweet treat on hand!

Storage Tips for Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Adding a slice of bread to the container helps retain moisture and keeps your cookies soft.

Freezer: Freeze your Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies for up to 3 months. For best results, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.

Unbaked Dough: For future convenience, freeze unbaked dough balls. Simply scoop and freeze them, then bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm again, pop the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

What to Serve with Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies?

Indulging in these cookies invites a warm, cozy atmosphere, perfect for enriching your culinary experience.

Warm Chai Tea: A fragrant blend of spices pairs perfectly with the cookie’s warm flavors, creating a soothing autumn treat.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm cookies, adding a delightful texture and richness.
Crisp Apple Slices: Fresh, crunchy apples provide a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ softness, enhancing the overall snacking experience.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season with a luscious latte that echoes the cookie’s spiced profile, making for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Milk: A tall glass of cold milk complements the sweetness, making every bite even more blissful—perfect for kids and the young at heart!
Spiced Hot Cider: This warming beverage captures autumn essence, enhancing the cozy vibe while sharing these cookies with family and friends.
Candied Nuts: Crunchy, sweetened nuts add a contrasting texture and nutty richness that makes snacking even more delightful alongside the cookies.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle over your cookies enhances the sweetness and creates an irresistible finish that leaves everyone wanting more.
Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti: For a second course, these add a satisfying crunch and a hint of chocolate that pairs beautifully with the cookies’ pumpkin flavor.

Helpful Tricks for Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies

Pumpkin Purity: Use only pure pumpkin puree to achieve the correct texture for your Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies; avoid pumpkin pie filling.
Chill To Shape: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before scooping to maintain the desired cookie shape while baking.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Never skip the cinnamon sugar roll! This step adds a delightful crunch to your cookies’ exterior.
Underbake for Chewiness: Remove cookies when they’re slightly underdone in the centers; they will firm up while cooling, ensuring the perfect chewy texture.
Space Them Right: Be sure to place cookie dough balls 3 inches apart on the baking sheet to allow for proper spreading during baking.

Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies: Flavor Variations

Get ready to elevate your Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies with these delightful twists that will surprise your taste buds!

Maple-Sweetened: Swap honey with maple syrup for a delightful, caramelized flavor. Enjoy the warm, earthy notes that will give your cookies a unique autumn flair.
Chocolatey Indulgence: Fold in chocolate chips or chunk pieces into the dough for a rich, gooey texture. The sweetness of chocolate perfectly complements the pumpkin, making each bite irresistible!
Nutty Crunch: Add in chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft pumpkin base. They bring a lovely texture that balances the chewiness beautifully.
Spice it Up: Substitute or add spices like cardamom or allspice to the pumpkin pie spice for a little extra warmth. This slight change can create a whole new flavor profile for your cookies that warms the heart.
Coconut Delight: Mix in shredded coconut for tropical sweetness and chewiness. Together with the pumpkin, it creates a wonderfully moist cookie that will leave you dreaming of sunny days.
Pumpkin Chocolate Swirl: Combine half chocolate dough and half pumpkin dough for a stunning visual and a delicious taste. This combination will not only look stunning but taste divine!
Chili Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising kick. The heat contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of honey and pumpkin.
Cinnamon Raisin: Toss in some plump raisins or dried cranberries for an added burst of flavor and chewy texture. These fruits offer a delightful sweetness paired with the spices.

Feel free to get creative! Want more cozy treats? Try pairing your cookies with a warm cup of milk or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence, or even alongside Honey Garlic Chicken for a delicious meal. You won’t regret it!

Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin for my cookies?
Absolutely! For these Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies, it’s essential to use pure pumpkin puree, which you can find in cans at the store. Look for “100% pure pumpkin” on the label to avoid any pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. If you opt to make your own puree from fresh pumpkins, select sugar pumpkins, as they are sweeter and have a smoother texture.

What’s the best way to store my cookies?
Very good question! You can store your freshly baked Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To keep them soft and moist, add a slice of bread to the container—this little trick works wonders!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can! Freeze your Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookies for up to 3 months. I recommend wrapping each cookie individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. For convenience, you can also freeze unbaked dough balls. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

What if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your cookie dough is a touch too sticky, don’t fret! Add a little more all-purpose flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency for scooping. Also, chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes can help firm it up, making it easier to work with.

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Great thought! These cookies contain common allergens such as wheat (from the all-purpose flour), eggs, and dairy. If you have allergy concerns, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a safe option and replace the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of applesauce for a vegan alternative. Always double-check labels for potential cross-contamination when selecting your ingredients.

How long can I pre-make the dough?
You can prepare your Buttery Honey Pumpkin Cookie dough up to 2 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before baking, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make scooping easier and achieve a perfect texture when baking!