Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel Sauce are a divine treat, ideal for the cozy fall season. These soft and spiced cookies are elevated with a drizzle of rich caramel sauce, creating the ultimate dessert for pumpkin lovers. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel Sauce are a Must-Try
Pumpkin cookies are already a delightful snack, with their soft texture and warm spices. Adding caramel sauce not only enhances their flavor but also provides a luxurious touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the earthy pumpkin. These cookies are versatile, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to impress at any occasion.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel Sauce
For the Pumpkin Cookies
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Pumpkin Cookie Dough
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the wet ingredients: Beat in the egg, followed by the canned pumpkin and vanilla extract, until fully incorporated.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Optional step: Fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
2. Baking the Cookies
- Shape the cookies: Use a tablespoon to scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Place the cookies in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden and the tops are set.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Making the Caramel Sauce
- Melt the sugar: Heat the granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns a deep amber color.
- Add butter carefully: Stir in the butter; the mixture will bubble vigorously. Continue stirring until the butter is fully combined.
- Incorporate the cream: Gradually add the heavy cream while stirring to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Add flavor: Remove from heat and stir in the salt and vanilla extract. Let the caramel sauce cool slightly before using.
4. Assembling the Cookies
- Drizzle the caramel: Once the cookies are fully cooled, drizzle the warm caramel sauce over them using a spoon or piping bag.
- Let it set: Allow the caramel to set before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Cookies
- Consistency matters: For softer cookies, avoid overbaking. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are set.
- Customizable caramel: If you prefer a thicker caramel sauce, let it cook slightly longer, but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them and reheat slightly before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Warm and comforting flavors: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates a quintessential fall flavor profile.
- Rich caramel topping: The homemade caramel sauce takes these cookies to the next level, offering a perfect balance of sweetness.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile: Add your own twist by incorporating chocolate chips, cranberries, or coconut flakes.
Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel Sauce are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of fall’s best flavors. The soft and spiced cookies paired with rich, buttery caramel create a treat that’s impossible to resist. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or a cozy night in, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Start baking today and savor the irresistible combination of pumpkin and caramel!
