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Pumpkin Cardamom Cookies

These rustic pumpkin cookies are infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and an unexpected dash of cardamom. They are chewy with crispy edges, showcasing a tender pumpkin flavor complemented by aromatic spices. The process involves mixing, shaping, and baking until golden, resulting in cozy, fall-inspired treats.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree canned or homemade
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom the unexpected spice

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • electric mixer or whisk
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cookie scoop
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Measure out pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and softened butter into a large mixing bowl. Mix with an electric mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy, filling your kitchen with a warm, spiced aroma.
  2. Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Beat again until the mixture is fluffy and slightly airy, about 2 minutes.
  3. Sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom in a separate bowl. This ensures even distribution of spices and leavening agents.
  4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or spoon, mixing just until combined. The dough will be slightly sticky but manageable.
  5. Use a cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space for spreading.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 12-15 minutes, until the edges turn golden brown and the house is filled with the smell of spices.
  7. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the sheet for 5 minutes; this helps the edges crisp up slightly while keeping the centers chewy.
  8. Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely, revealing their rustic, slightly cracked tops and chewy centers.
  9. Enjoy these cozy cookies with a mug of warm tea or a glass of milk, savoring the aroma and the perfect balance of spice and pumpkin flavor.

Notes

Chill the dough for 15 minutes if it’s too sticky to scoop easily. Adjust baking time based on your oven—edges should be golden and fragrant. Feel free to sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or sugar on top before baking for added flavor and visual appeal.