Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies
If you’re craving the flavors of fall, pumpkin coffee cake cookies are the perfect treat to satisfy your seasonal sweet tooth. These moist, spiced cookies combine the best of both worlds: the melt-in-your-mouth texture of pumpkin desserts with the crumbly satisfaction of coffee cake. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or looking for a cozy weekend baking project, these cookies deserve a spot in your recipe rotation.
Why Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies Are a Must-Try
What makes pumpkin coffee cake cookies so irresistible? They capture the warmth of fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, with a soft pumpkin base and a buttery streusel topping. Here’s why you’ll love them:
- Fall Flavors: Perfect balance of pumpkin spice and sweetness.
- Texture Combo: Soft, chewy base with a delightful crumb topping.
- Easy to Bake: No mixer required. Great for beginner bakers.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Cookies stay moist for days and freeze well.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookie Base:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Crumb Topping:
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Optional Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk or maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, both sugars, pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, stir together flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Drizzle in melted butter and mix with a fork until crumbly. Don’t overmix – you want those big, buttery crumbles.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop cookie dough (about 2 tbsp per cookie) onto the baking sheet, leaving space to spread. Press a small indentation in the center and spoon on some crumb topping.
Bake for 11–13 minutes or until the edges are set and the crumb is lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.
Step 4: Glaze (Optional)

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk/maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies with a fork or piping bag.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies
- Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.
- Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Don’t Overbake: Cookies will continue to cook on the sheet as they cool. Pull them when the centers are just set.
Storage and Freezing
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Place a slice of bread inside the container to keep cookies soft.
Freezing: Once cooled, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are wonderful with a hot pumpkin spice latte or a strong cup of coffee. You can also serve them warm with a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert-like twist.
Variations to Try
- Nutty Crumb: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel for crunch.
- Cream Cheese Filling: Add a teaspoon of cheesecake filling before the crumb topping for extra indulgence.
- Maple Glaze: Add a splash of real maple syrup to your glaze for a deep, autumnal sweetness.
Internal Link Suggestions
- Link to a related blog post: Best Pumpkin Cookies
- Feature a coffee pairing post: Fall Coffee Recipes
- Add related category link: Fall Baking Recipes
External Link Suggestions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for similar results. Add 1/4 tsp xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Make sure to roast and purée your pumpkin until smooth, and drain excess moisture for better consistency.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I skip the crumb topping?
Yes, but the crumb topping adds texture and visual appeal. If skipping it, consider rolling the dough balls in cinnamon sugar before baking.
Conclusion: Bake the Ultimate Fall Cookie Today
Whether you’re a devoted pumpkin lover or just looking to spice up your fall baking lineup, pumpkin coffee cake cookies are an absolute must. They’re easy, delightful, and packed with the cozy flavors everyone loves. With a soft pumpkin cookie base and buttery streusel topping, they deliver comfort in every bite.
Ready to give them a try? Share this recipe with friends and family or bookmark it for your next baking day. And don’t forget to check out our Fall Cookie Recipes collection for more seasonal favorites!