Name: Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies for Autumn Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Measure properly to avoid density.); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Essential for height and chewiness.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adjust for personal spice levels.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cloves (Use sparingly as it’s potent.); 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger (Can swap for extra cinnamon if desired.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.); 1 cup Butter (Salted or Unsalted) (Ensure it’s softened before use.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Can use white sugar for a lighter taste.); 1/2 cup White Sugar (Adjust based on preference.); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Don't replace with pumpkin pie mix.); 1 large Egg (Fresh eggs yield the best results.); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Use pure for the richest taste.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Room temperature is crucial.); 1/2 cup Butter (Unsalted) (Ensure it’s well-combined.); 3 cups Powdered Sugar (Adjust for desired sweetness.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure extract preferred for best results.); 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (Can be omitted if desired.)

As the leaves begin to crinkle underfoot and the air carries whispers of cinnamon and nutmeg, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven of fall flavors. I discovered the joy of making Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies not just once, but whenever the craving strikes, offering a delightful escape from the rush of fast food. These cookies are not only easy to whip up but also boast a moist, cake-like texture topped with tangy cream cheese icing that beckons for seconds. Perfect for autumn gatherings or a warm evening treat, they can even be customized with chocolate chips or colorful icing to match any festive occasion. Are you ready to embrace the essence of the season and bake these delectable delights?

Why are these cookies irresistible?

Soft and Fluffy: Each bite of these cookie delights mirrors a soft cake, making them a heavenly experience for pumpkin lovers. Timeless Flavors: Infused with warm spices, they evoke cozy autumn vibes that transport you to fall festivities. Customizable Options: Whether you add chocolate chips or Craisins, these cookies let your creativity shine. Quick and Easy: You can whip up a batch in no time, perfect for unexpected guests or a last-minute dessert. Beautifully Decorated: With a luscious cream cheese icing, they not only taste divine but look exquisite, making them ideal for any celebration. Enjoy these tasty treats alongside a warm cup of coffee or hot cider, as you savor the season like never before!

Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cookies; measure properly to avoid density.
Baking Powder – Essential for height and a chewy texture; don’t skip this!
Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm, inviting flavor; adjust for personal spice levels.
Ground Cloves – Deepens the spice profile; use sparingly as it’s potent.
Ground Ginger – Brings a hint of zest; can swap for extra cinnamon if you wish.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; a must-have ingredient!
Butter (Salted or Unsalted) – Creates rich tenderness; ensure it’s softened before use.
Brown Sugar – Infuses moisture and depth; can use white sugar for a lighter taste.
White Sugar – Adds sweetness; feel free to adjust based on preference.
Pumpkin Puree – Moistens and flavors the cookies; don’t replace it with pumpkin pie mix.
Egg – Binds ingredients for cohesiveness; fresh eggs yield the best results.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates flavor; use pure extract for the richest taste.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – The base for the frosting, adding creamy texture; room temperature is crucial.
Butter (Unsalted) – Contributes creaminess to the frosting; ensure it’s well-combined.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; adjust for your desired level of sweetness.
Vanilla Extract (for frosting) – Boosts flavor; pure extract is preferred for best results.
Mini Chocolate Chips (optional) – Adds a delightful chocolatey burst; can be omitted if desired.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when you place your cookie dough in, the heat is just right for creating those soft, cake-like cookies. Use a reliable oven thermometer if needed to make sure your temperature is spot on, as accurate heat is key for perfect baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground ginger, and salt. This step is crucial as it combines the leavening agent with your spices and prevents lumps. Set this bowl aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together your softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This process incorporates air into the butter for a tender texture. You’ll notice a pale color change, indicating it’s ready for the next step.

Step 4: Incorporate the Pumpkin Mixture
Now, beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Mix until there’s an even consistency; this should take around 1-2 minutes. The vibrant orange hue of the pumpkin will be a comforting sight, blending beautifully into the fluffy butter mixture.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined—about 30 seconds. Be cautious not to overmix; we want the texture to remain tender. The dough should come together without any visible flour streaks, signaling it’s ready for the next step.

Step 6: Shape the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion out about 1½ tablespoons of dough for each cookie and place them on a lined baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly to about ½ inch thick with the palm of your hand. The cookies should have some space in between them, as they will spread while baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake your Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but slightly soft. They should look puffy and not overly browned when finished. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a clean bowl, beat together the room-temperature cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until you achieve a light and fluffy frosting, about 3-4 minutes, ensuring everything is well-combined without lumps.

Step 9: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. For a finishing touch, sprinkle mini chocolate chips or a dash of cinnamon over the frosted cookies, bringing them to life with color and extra flavor. These final decorations create a festive feel, perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead Options

These Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, keeping the ingredients fresh and flavors intact. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, cover it well, and stop by the oven when you’re ready to bake. You can also bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For the best quality, frost the cookies just before serving to ensure the cream cheese icing remains luscious and smooth. By prepping ahead, you’ll have delightful treats ready for unexpected guests or busy weeknights with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them where they’ll stay cool and dry to maintain freshness.

Fridge: For longer-lasting cookies, refrigerate them for up to a week. Their cream cheese frosting may firm up, making them delightful to eat chilled.

Freezer: Freeze individual cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: For a warm treat, microwave thawed cookies for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the revived, soft texture of your Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies!

Expert Tips for Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies

Perfectly Measure Flour: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies; too much flour can lead to a dry texture.
Don’t Overmix Dough: Mix until just combined to keep cookies light and fluffy; overmixing can create toughness.
Cool Before Frosting: Allow cookies to cool completely prior to frosting, ensuring the cream cheese icing remains intact and beautiful.
Chewy Texture Tip: Underbake slightly for a chewier center; cookies will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.
Frosting Consistency Check: Ensure cream cheese and butter are room temperature for a smooth frosting; cold ingredients make it hard to combine.

What to Serve with Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies

As the aroma of warm spices wafts through your kitchen, it’s time to plan that perfect accompaniments for these delightful treats.

Creamy Hot Cocoa: This indulgent drink complements the pumpkin’s sweetness, offering rich chocolaty notes that feel like a warm hug.
Spiced Apple Cider: The tartness of apples alongside cinnamon enhances the cookies’ flavors, making it the ultimate fall beverage pairing.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla elevates the dessert experience, cooling the palate against the warm, spiced cookie texture.
Chai Tea: Earthy spices from this aromatic tea marry beautifully with the pumpkin cookie, creating a cozy, heartwarming duo for chilly evenings.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the frosted cookie adds a luscious sweetness that enlivens every bite.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the fall vibe by pairing your cookies with this seasonal favorite, allowing the spices to resonate harmoniously.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkling some crunchy, nutty granola over the cookies introduces a delightful texture contrast while amplifying rustic autumn flavors.
Chocolate Milk: A nostalgic favorite, rich chocolate milk further drives the sweetness of the cookies, wrapping you in a blanket of comfort.
Salted Caramel Fudge Brownies: Elevate your dessert table with these decadent treats; the rich chocolate and sweet caramel blend spectacularly with pumpkin flavors.

Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore your creative side and customize these cookies to suit your taste and occasion!

Chocolate Chip: Stir in mini chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey surprise in every bite.
Craisins: Add a handful of Craisins for a pop of sweetness and chewiness, perfectly complementing the pumpkin flavor.
Decorative Icing: Use seasonal food coloring in your cream cheese icing to match holidays or fall festivities perfectly.
Fall-Themed Toppings: Decorate with candy sprinkles or tiny chocolate pumpkins for a fun and festive touch.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of maple syrup on top of the frosting for an indulgent flavor enhancement.

If you’re in the mood for variety, why not try making a version of these cookies into an unforgettable dessert bar? Gather your friends, bake a batch of our Cherry Cheesecake Cupcakes for added fun with seasonal flavors, or pair them with a rich Espresso Chocolate Cheesecake to delight your palate.

Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for canned options labeled 100% pure pumpkin with no added spices or sweeteners. Freshly made pumpkin puree from roasted pumpkins can also be a delicious option—just ensure that the pumpkin is fully cooked and blended until smooth for the best flavor!

How should I store my cookies for maximum freshness?
To keep your cookies fresh and irresistibly soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember that the cream cheese frosting may firm up in the fridge, giving them a delightful chilled texture!

Can I freeze Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies?
Absolutely! For optimal freezing, allow your baked cookies to cool completely. Then, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them into an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper if desired. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months! When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.

What if my cookies turn out too dry or crumbly?
If you find your cookies lack moisture, it’s likely due to over-measuring the flour. Always measure with the spoon-and-level method to get the right amount. If your dough is overly dry before baking, try adding 1 tablespoon of milk to help bring it together. Additionally, be mindful of not overmixing or overbaking the cookies!

Are these cookies safe for pets or anyone with allergies?
While the Copycat Crumbl Pumpkin Cake Cookies are delicious for human consumption, they contain ingredients like chocolate chips that are harmful to pets. Moreover, those with gluten or dairy allergies should avoid this recipe as it contains flour and cream cheese. Always check all ingredients and consider adaptations for specific dietary needs.