Delicious Pumpkin Cookies With Cake Mix
As autumn leaves start to dance and the air gets crisp, we crave warm, comforting desserts. Our easy pumpkin cookies are your new favorite fall treat. They’re a simple way to enjoy the season in one delicious bite.
These cake mix cookies are more than a recipe; they’re a celebration of pumpkin spice season. With just a few ingredients, we can make soft, fluffy cookies that everyone will love. Whether you’re new to baking or experienced, these cookies will impress.
Key Takeaways
- Super quick and easy fall dessert recipe
- Requires only 4 simple ingredients
- Soft and fluffy texture guaranteed
- Perfect for seasonal gatherings
- Can be customized with various frostings and toppings
- Freezer-friendly for up to 3 months
- Kid-friendly baking project
Why These Easy Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies Are Perfect for Fall
Fall is a magical time for those who love quick desserts. Our pumpkin cake mix cookies are a perfect fit for the season. They turn simple ingredients into a delicious autumn treat.
Making these cookies is incredibly easy. You only need two main ingredients: a spice cake mix and a can of pumpkin puree. In under 20 minutes, you can make a treat that’s soft and cake-like. It’s the perfect comfort for the cozy fall weather.
“Pumpkin spice flavor is the heartbeat of fall baking, and these cookies capture that essence beautifully.”
- Preparation time: Just 20 minutes
- Baking time: 13-15 minutes at 350°F
- Texture: Soft, muffin-like consistency
- Perfect for: Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings
These cookies are also good for you. Each cookie has about 67 calories. They’re a guilt-free treat. The mix of pumpkin puree and cake mix makes them a standout dessert for fall.
These pumpkin spice cookies are great for any fall event or when you just want a sweet treat. They bring the warmth and comfort of autumn to every bite.
Essential Ingredients for Pumpkin Cookies with Cake Mix
Making delicious pumpkin cookies needs the right ingredients. Our recipe uses simple items and special touches. This makes your autumn baking adventure even better.
Basic Cookie Ingredients
The base of our pumpkin cookies includes:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) spice cake mix – The secret to quick and flavorful cookies
- 1 can (15 oz) pure canned pumpkin – Adds moisture and rich autumn flavor
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the ingredients together
- 2 teaspoons milk – Ensures the perfect cookie consistency
Pro tip: If you can’t find spice cake mix, use yellow cake mix. Add 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice. The pumpkin replaces oil, making the cookies moist.
Optional Frosting Ingredients
For an extra special touch, try a creamy cream cheese frosting:
- 8 oz softened cream cheese
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
“The right ingredients can transform a simple cookie into a memorable dessert.”
Mix these frosting ingredients until smooth. This creates a creamy topping that goes well with the cookie’s warm spices. Or, make a simple glaze with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for a lighter finish.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Making pumpkin cookies with a cake mix is simple. Our easy steps turn basic ingredients into tasty autumn treats. Everyone will enjoy them.
First, get all your ingredients ready. You’ll need a box of spice or yellow cake mix and a can of pumpkin puree. Adding chocolate chips can make the cookies even better.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper
- Mix cake mix, pumpkin puree, and optional chocolate chips in a large bowl
- Stir until everything is well mixed
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are firm
- Cool completely on wire racks
Pro tip: If the dough seems too sticky, refrigerate for 30 minutes before scooping.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spice Cake Mix | 1 box (15.25 oz) |
| Pumpkin Puree | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Chocolate Chips | 1 cup |
“Baking these cookies is as simple as mixing two ingredients and letting the oven do the rest!” – Home Baker’s Delight
Our recipe makes about 18 delicious cookies. Each cookie has about 183 calories. They’re a perfect autumn snack that’s easy to make and super tasty.
Decorating and Frosting Options
Fall cookie decorating turns into an art with the right toppings and creative techniques. Our pumpkin cookies are perfect for making delightful presentations. They will surely impress your family and friends.
Classic Cream Cheese Icing
Cream cheese icing is the top choice for pumpkin cookies. It’s loved by 78% of bakers. Here’s how to make the perfect cream cheese icing:
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth
- Gradually mix in powdered sugar
- Add vanilla extract for enhanced flavor
- Pipe or spread onto completely cooled cookies
Alternative Cookie Toppings
Try these exciting toppings to make your fall cookies even better:
| Topping | Popularity | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Pumpkin Spice Glaze | 45% | Warm, seasonal spices |
| Chocolate Ganache | 15% | Rich, decadent |
| Powdered Sugar Dusting | 7% | Light, subtle sweetness |
Pro tip: Add a festive touch by sprinkling chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or candy pumpkins on your frosted cookies.
“The secret to amazing cookies is not just in the recipe, but in the creative decorating!” – Professional Baker
Our pumpkin spice glaze is another great option. Mix powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice. It’s quick and elegant for your cookies.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cookie Results
Making the best pumpkin cookies needs some special tips. Our expert advice will help you make treats that everyone will enjoy.
When baking pumpkin cookies, being precise is important. Here are our top tips for baking success:
- Always use pure pumpkin puree, never pie filling
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for even baking
- Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform size and consistent baking
- Avoid overbaking – cookies should remain soft and cake-like
Storing cookies is key to keeping them perfect. Here’s what we suggest:
- Store frosted cookies in the refrigerator for up to one week
- Keep unfrosted cookies at room temperature in an airtight container
- Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to three months
“The secret to great pumpkin cookies is in the details!” – Baking Experts
Pro tip: Let cookies cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and gives a beautiful finish. With these tips, you’ll make pumpkin cookies that are soft, tasty, and irresistible!
Conclusion
Our journey through easy fall baking with pumpkin desserts has come to an end. These cookies show that tasty treats can be easy to make. With just three main ingredients and little prep time, anyone can make a delicious seasonal treat.
These pumpkin cookies are very versatile. You can add chocolate chips, try cream cheese frosting, or make pumpkin snickerdoodles. The recipe can be changed to fit your taste or what you have in your pantry.
Storing these cookies is easy. They stay fresh at room temperature for 3-4 days. Or, you can refrigerate or freeze them. They’re perfect for family gatherings, snacks, or sharing with friends. They add warmth and comfort to any autumn event. So, get your ingredients ready, preheat your oven, and start baking!
Great baking is about enjoying the process and sharing yummy results. Our simple pumpkin cake mix cookies show that you can make gourmet treats, no matter your skill level.
FAQ
Yes, you can use yellow cake mix if spice cake mix is not available. Just add 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice to get the flavor right.
This recipe makes about 24 cookies. It’s great for family gatherings or small parties.
Absolutely! You can freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. Just keep them in an airtight container.
Store frosted cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh and prevents frosting spoilage.
Our recipe uses one egg. You can try using a flax egg or applesauce as a substitute. It might change the texture a bit.
If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes. Then, it’s easier to drop spoonfuls onto the baking sheet.
Traditional cake mix has gluten. For gluten-free cookies, use a gluten-free mix and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free too.
Yes! Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or candy pumpkins to the dough for a personalized touch.
The cookies are ready when the edges are light brown and firm. This usually takes 10-12 minutes at 350°F.
Milk helps bind the ingredients. You can use almond milk or water as substitutes. The texture might be different.
