A Fall-Inspired Delight: Pumpkin Spice Thumbprint Cookies
You know, something about the flavors of fall-when those leaves start to turn golden and the air gets that really nice crisp feeling-is just so cozy. These Pumpkin Spice Thumbprint Cookies with Creamy Pumpkin Filling absolutely captured the essence of autumn.
This combination of spices with the yummy, pumpkin-filled interior makes this a super great treat to have with a cozy cup of tea or a fresh mug of coffee. Be it for a fall get-together or just to satisfy those pumpkin spice cravings of yours, cookies like these will definitely be a seasonal favorite.
Ready to get your autumn flavors on? Let’s make a dessert that everyone will want more of. This recipe is perfect for both advanced bakers and beginners in the kitchen.
Introduction to Pumpkin Thumbprint Cookies
These thumbprint cookies give the classics a little twist, while little bites capture the cozy essence of pumpkin pie, creamy cheesecake textures, and the outright feel of autumn in their super-tempting cookies.
This tender soft-and-tender pumpkin cookie base was tender and only moderately spiced, like the best pumpkin pies. Luscious, pumpkin-flavored cream cheese filling piped on the middle indentation. A combination really in harmony, both in textures and tastes. Well, these cookies of pumpkin inspiration surely have great stepping feet from those old-school, jam-filled thumbprints. What a cool way to have that pumpkin goodness without having to dive into a whole pie or cheesecake-perfect for fall hangs and holiday parties!
These scrumptious fall favorites are sure to wow company and satisfy those cravings for pumpkin everything. Easy and serving many purposes, they’re great for many occasions or even a special autumn treat.
A Taste of Autumn in Each and Every Bite
You see, fall has always been my baking season. There is just something about that scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves permeating the air, making everything feel so homey. And I think instantly of those cool October afternoons baking cookies with Mom, and how that fresh pumpkin spice smell would linger long after the oven was turned off.
But these thumbprint cookies remind me of those times-with a fun twist. The well of creamy pumpkin filling inside gives this awesomely different texture and flavor, something which really separates them from regular thumbprint cookies.
Soft cookies spiced, mixed with smooth, tart pumpkin filling-just what a person needs on a chilly day. Shared among friends and family when we would get together in the fall, it would be one of the things that I do most and every time, it’s pretty sought after. I also think it’s awesome that you can really doll them up for Halloween or Thanksgiving or keep them super simple for just a chill dessert.
Why You’re Gonna Love These Pumpkin Thumbprint Cookies
These pumpkin spice thumbprint cookies are all but the ultimate autumnal snack for the following reasons:
- Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves-the spice of warmth that gives us that pumpkin spice flavor we just can’t get enough of.
- Creamy Pumpkin Filling: And then there’s that great, rich, creamy pumpkin filling right in the middle of every cookie, with a little cream cheese thrown in for good measure.
- So much fun, really easy to make. Since it is very easy to shape and fill thumbprint cookies, they are great fun to make for kids and grownups alike.
- It’s perfect for snacking on, whipping out during the holidays, just chillin’ on a night in, or if one wants to have something sweet with their coffee.
How to Make Pumpkin Thumbprint Cookies?
Making the Creamy Pumpkin Filling
This creamy pumpkin filling is super tasty, having all its flavors atop this spiced cookie base. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together softened cream cheese, pumpkin puree, and powdered sugar.
I add vanilla extract and cinnamon, as these are the spices that go along with pumpkin. Mix really well until smooth. If needed add more milk or powdered sugar until it reaches my desired consistency.
Once the texture is spot on, I throw the filling into the piping bag; that makes it really easy to get a nice amount in each cookie indentation. If you do not have a piping bag, a small spoon works, too. It’s a delicious cream cheese frosting with the great in-twist of pumpkin.
Assembling and Decorating Your Pumpkin Thumbprint Cookies
Those cookies have those little dents in them, just perfect for our spiced pumpkin mix. I grab a small spoon and carefully fill the center of each cookie. That richness, creaminess plays well with the crunchy cookie base.
Then, I will dust the cookies with powdered sugar; it will make for a sweet comparison and give an image with the cookies looking all snow-kissed. You can decorate however you want. Pecans crushed on or even a little caramel drizzled will be quite fun.
Once you’ve iced the cookies, just let them chill for like 15 minutes, that’ll firm the pumpkin filling up some. For freshness, go ahead and pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep fresh up to a week.
These pumpkin thumbprint cookies are just perfect for autumn gatherings, cozied up with a warm cup of tea. That spicy-sweet pumpkin mixed in a buttery cookie mix will impress your friends and family for sure.
How to Customize Your Pumpkin Thumbprint Cookies
While this recipe is delicious as is, it’s also easily customizable depending on your tastes.
- Add some Caramel Drizzle: You could even make it fancier by drizzling some caramel sauce over the pumpkin filling after the cookies are cooled and filled. Truth be told, one could die with caramel added into pumpkin spice!
- Spice Things Up: If you like a little kick in your cookies, then add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra ginger to the dough for that sweet and spicy treat.
- Mix it up in the filling: not into the creamy pumpkin filling? Try apple butter, cranberry jam, or a dollop of Nutella for a different feel in this classic thumbprint cookie style.
The Best Cookies for Gifting
But these cookies are such a blast to make and eat, but they can make quite a nice gift, too. They package really well wrapped up, and the cuteness just screams fall for holiday gift baskets or holiday cookie exchanges. Just pop a few into a pretty box or pop them into a mason jar with some seasonal ribbon, and you’re done-a sweet homemade gift any would love.
Perfect Pumpkin Thumbprint Cookies Tips
Well, here’s a set of tips that will help you cool your cookies every time:
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Once you’ve combined the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of soft, tender ones.
- Chill the Dough if Necessary: If your dough seems too soft or sticky to handle, pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This will make it easier to roll into balls and create the thumbprint indentation.
- Cool Completely Before Filling: Make sure the cookies are fully cooled before adding the pumpkin filling. If they’re still warm, the filling may melt and lose its shape.
Creative Serving Suggestions
Because serving up those cookies-well, you have a lot of ways to get creative:
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: Serve these cookies alongside a spiced chai or pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate fall flavor pairing.
- Dress Them Up for a Party: If you’re making these cookies for a festive occasion, try topping them with a sprinkle of crushed pecans or a drizzle of white chocolate for a more elegant presentation.
- Serve with Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent dessert, pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla bean or caramel ice cream. The warm spices and creamy filling complement the cold ice cream perfectly.
Bake, Share and Enjoy
Wow, these Pumpkin Spice Thumbprint Cookies with Creamy Pumpkin Filling are something else-they are delicious and what a cool outstandingly brilliant way to get all those seasonal flavors in.
Such cookies are definitely going to warm up and put a smile on all who will try them-be it for yourself or shared with friends and family. Hit me in the comments if you’re making any of these cookies-I want to know how they turn out for you!
And don’t forget to post up all your goodies on social media so I can see all of your fall baking by tagging me!
Pumpkin Spice Thumbprint Cookies with Creamy Pumpkin Filling
Course: Cookies24
servings20
minutes10
minutes130
kcalIngredients
- For the Cookies:
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground ginger
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- For the Pumpkin Filling:
¾ cup pumpkin puree
2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
¼ cup powdered sugar
½ tsp cinnamon
Pinch of salt
- For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
Steps
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, forming a soft dough. - Step 2: Shape and Coat the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, roll the dough into small balls (about 1 ½ inch). In a separate small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between them. You can also shape the cookies filling filling the dough into a piping bag.The shapes will be different but still delicious and tempting. - Step 3: Create the Thumbprint Indentation
Gently press your thumb into the center of each dough ball, creating a deep indentation without going all the way through. This will be the well that holds the pumpkin filling. You can also use the back of a small spoon to create a more even circle. - Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. - Step 5: Make the Pumpkin Filling
While the cookies cool, prepare the creamy pumpkin filling. In a small bowl, beat together the pumpkin puree, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. - Step 6: Fill the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, pipe or spoon the pumpkin filling into the thumbprint indentations. You can use a piping bag for a neat, swirled look or a spoon for a more rustic, homey feel.
