Are you craving the warm, comforting flavors of fall but looking for a delicious treat that's also egg-free? Look no further! This pumpkin cookie recipe is perfect for anyone avoiding eggs, whether due to allergies or dietary preferences. These soft, spiced cookies are surprisingly easy to make, and they're packed with that irresistible pumpkin spice flavor we all adore. Get ready to enjoy a simple, healthy, and delicious homemade treat perfect for cozy nights in or festive gatherings! This recipe is a quick dinner idea solution, especially if you're short on time.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Thoroughly combining the dry ingredients prevents clumps in your final cookies.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the applesauce, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Using applesauce instead of eggs adds moisture and keeps the cookies delightfully soft.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 5: Add Mix-ins (Optional)
Stir in the chocolate chips and/or nuts, if desired. This is where you can personalize your cookies to your liking!
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy!
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Cookies:
- Room temperature ingredients: Using room temperature ingredients helps them blend better and ensures even baking.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough cookies. Mix just until combined.
- Chill the dough (optional): For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This also helps prevent spreading.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweet cookies, reduce the sugar by ¼ cup.
Variations:
- Spiced Pumpkin Cookies: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
- Cream Cheese Pumpkin Cookies: Swirl in a dollop of cream cheese frosting after baking for an extra decadent treat.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-180 Fat: 6-8g Sugar: 15-20g
Enjoy these delicious and easy-to-make egg-free pumpkin cookies! They are a perfect fall treat for everyone to enjoy. They're a great option for easy recipes and healthy meals, fitting perfectly into your quick dinner ideas. This homemade cooking endeavor is sure to be a family favorite!