Pumpkin Almond Cookies – Soft, Simple & Gluten-Free

Last updated on August 6, 2025

Remember those chilly autumn days when a warm cookie straight from the oven could brighten your mood and wrap you in a comforting embrace? I certainly do! It’s one of those cozy memories that we hold dear in our hearts. That’s exactly how I felt when I stumbled upon this delightful recipe for pumpkin almond cookies. The combination of warm spices, sweet pumpkin, and nutty almond just feels like a hug from the inside out.

Now, if you’ve ever hesitated to bake cookies because you feared messing them up, you’re not alone. We’ve all been there, worried about overmixing or accidentally forgetting an ingredient. But guess what? Baking can actually be a wonderfully relaxing adventure, and I’m here to guide you through every simple step. With this recipe, even if it’s your first time baking cookies, I promise you’ll find it stress-free and totally doable.

Why I Love This Recipe of Pumpkin Almond Cookies

What makes this pumpkin almond cookie recipe special to me? It’s simple: the nostalgia of autumn flavors combined with the warm and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. These cookies are not just delightful to eat; they evoke memories of family gatherings, cozy evenings, and the joy of sharing something homemade.

Beginner cooks will truly appreciate this recipe because it’s straightforward and encouraging. It provides a fantastic opportunity to experiment with pumpkin—the ultimate autumn staple—while introducing some unique elements like almond meal and whole almonds. Plus, the cozy scents of cinnamon and allspice will turn your kitchen into a haven, making the entire experience worthwhile.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Pumpkin Almond Cookies

Let’s gather everything we need to create these charming cookies.

Pumpkin Almond Cookies

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• Author: Sarah Mendez
• Total Time: 38 minutes (plus chilling)
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Pumpkin Almond Cookies are soft, spiced, and slightly sweet with a festive pumpkin shape and a whole almond nestled in the center. Finished with a glossy honey glaze, they’re perfect for cozy fall gatherings, holiday cookie trays, or afternoon tea.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 2 drops orange food coloring (optional)
• 2 tsp cinnamon powder
• 1 tsp allspice powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup almond meal
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup whole almonds (for topping)
• Honey, for brushing

Optional Add-Ins:

• Chopped walnuts or pecans
• Chocolate chips
• Dried cranberries or raisins

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Instructions

1. Beat Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
2. Add Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Mix in Pumpkin: Add the pumpkin puree and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Stir in Vanilla & Color: Add vanilla extract and optional orange food coloring. Mix to combine.
5. Spice It Up: Stir in cinnamon, allspice, and salt.
6. Add Almond Meal: Gently mix in almond meal until combined.
7. Incorporate Flour: Add flour in three parts, mixing on low until just combined.
8. Chill Dough: Wrap dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 15 minutes.
9. Preheat Oven: While dough chills, preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
10. Shape Cookies: Roll dough into balls, then shape into pumpkins. Press an almond in the center and use a butter knife to create ridges.
11. Bake: Place on baking sheet and bake 15–20 minutes or until firm and lightly golden.
12. Brush with Honey: While warm, brush tops with honey for a glossy finish.
13. Cool: Let cookies rest on the baking tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

• No pumpkin puree? Substitute with unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana.
• No almond meal? Use ground oats or another nut flour as a replacement.
• Chilling improves texture but can be skipped in a pinch.
• Freeze for later: Store baked cookies in the freezer for up to 2 months.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 135
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: pumpkin almond cookies, fall cookies, festive pumpkin cookies, spiced cookies, pumpkin dessert, honey glazed cookies

Essentials

• 2 sticks unsalted butter (softened): Softened butter is key here, as it creates a fluffy base for your cookies and helps all the ingredients come together beautifully.

• ½ cup powdered sugar: This will provide a subtle sweetness and contribute to the cookies’ soft texture.

• 1 cup pumpkin puree: A must-have! This not only adds moisture but also brings in that delicious pumpkin flavor we crave in fall.

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: This adds a depth of flavor that complements the pumpkin and spices.

• 2 drops orange food color: This is optional, but it can give your cookies a fun, festive look.

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon powder: A quintessential autumn spice that makes everything more flavorful.

• 1 teaspoon allspice powder: This brings a warm, aromatic touch to each bite.

• 1 teaspoon salt: A pinch helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.

• ½ cup almond meal: This nutty flour adds depth and complements the pumpkin perfectly.

• 2 cups flour: All-purpose flour is essential for structure in our cookies.

• ¾ cup whole almonds: These will be placed in the center of each cookie, adding a lovely crunch.

• Honey: Brushed on top of the cookies after baking, honey gives them a beautiful shine and a hint of natural sweetness.

Optional Add-Ons

Feel free to get creative! You might consider adding:

• Chopped walnuts or pecans for additional crunch.
• Chocolate chips if you want a sweeter twist.
• Cranberries or raisins to introduce a chewy element.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

Don’t have pumpkin puree? You can substitute it with applesauce or mashed bananas for a different, yet delightful flavor. If you’re out of almond meal, ground oats or another nut flour can work well.

If you’re tight on time, you can skip the chilling step after mixing the dough, although I highly recommend it for a better texture!

How to Make Pumpkin Almond Cookies Step-by-Step

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making the cookies! Here’s a comprehensive step-by-step guide that will walk you through the baking process.

Step 1: Prepare the Butter

Start by placing your softened butter in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk, beat the butter until it becomes fluffy and light in color. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Incorporate the Sugar

Gradually add in the powdered sugar, one spoonful at a time, continuing to beat until the mixture is soft and fluffy. This step is crucial because it helps to aerate the dough, making your cookies light and delightful.

Step 3: Add the Pumpkin Puree

Next, it’s time to introduce the star of the show: pumpkin puree! Mix it straight into your butter and sugar blend, ensuring everything is well incorporated. The bright orange color will start to shine!

Step 4: Stir in the Vanilla Extract

Pour in your tablespoon of vanilla extract and beat again until just combined. This fragrant addition will elevate the taste profile of your cookies.

Step 5: Optional Food Coloring

If you’re feeling festive and want to enhance the color, this is the moment to add your two drops of orange food coloring. Mix until the color is even throughout.

Step 6: Spice it Up

Now, sprinkle in the cinnamon, allspice, and salt. Stir until the spices are well distributed in the dough. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and you’ll be ready to continue.

Step 7: Almond Meal

It’s time for the almond meal! Gently fold it into the mixture, beating on low speed just until combined. You don’t want to overmix at this stage—this could toughen the cookies.

Step 8: Add the Flour

Slowly add the all-purpose flour in three parts, mixing on low speed until each addition is just incorporated. Remember to be gentle here; overbeating can lead to dense cookies.

Step 9: Chill the Dough

Wrap your cookie dough in cling wrap and refrigerate it for at least 15 minutes. Chilling helps to firm up the dough, making shaping easier.

Step 10: Preheat the Oven

While your dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare your baking tray by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 11: Shape the Cookies

Once chilled, divide the dough into equal parts. Roll each part into a ball and shape it into a little pumpkin. Make a slight impression in the center of each cookie with your thumb, and then use a butter knife to create eight slits around the sides—this gives it that classic pumpkin appearance.

Step 12: Add the Almonds

Press a whole almond gently into the center of each pumpkin cookie, ensuring it’s secure.

Step 13: Bake Those Cookies!

Place the shaped cookies on your prepared baking tray, leaving about an inch of space between them. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until they turn golden brown and feel firm on the outside. If any almonds pop out, just gently push them back in before removing the tray from the oven.

Step 14: Brush with Honey

The final touch! As soon as you take the cookies out of the oven, brush a generous amount of honey over the tops. Not only does this give them a lovely sheen, but it adds a touch of sweetness too.

Step 15: Cooling Time

Let the cookies sit on the baking tray for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Store them in an airtight container once they’ve cooled down, and feel free to freeze them for later enjoyment!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the Dough

One of the most common mistakes when baking cookies is overmixing the dough. It can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired tender texture. Remember to mix just until you don’t see any flour.

Not Chilling the Dough

Skipping the chilling step can affect the shape and texture of your cookies. Chilling helps the fat solidify, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Incorrect Measurements

Baking is a science, and accurate measurements are essential. Use measuring cups for liquids and dry ingredients to ensure you’re getting it right.

Not Using Parchment Paper

Parchment paper is your best friend when it comes to baking cookies. It prevents sticking and ensures even baking. Avoid greasing the pan directly, as this can lead to greasier cookies.

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Almond Cookies

With a Cup of Hot Tea or Coffee

Pair these delightful cookies with your favorite cup of tea or coffee. The spices in the cookies complement the warm beverages beautifully, making for a perfect afternoon snack.

Served at a Fall Gathering

These pumpkin almond cookies would make a fantastic addition to any fall gathering or holiday table. Their festive shape and flavor will surely impress your family and friends.

With a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

For a delightful treat, try serving these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The combination of warm and cold will send your taste buds soaring!

Drizzled with Extra Honey

If you enjoy a bit more sweetness, feel free to drizzle a little extra honey over the top of the cookies just before serving. This adds a beautiful glaze and a sweet finish.

Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready

Experiment with Spices

While the basic spices in this recipe create a wonderful flavor, don’t be afraid to experiment with nutmeg, ginger, or even cardamom for an extra twist.

Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree

If you want to take it a step further, consider roasting fresh pumpkins to make your own puree. It adds an incredible flavor and richness that canned versions can’t quite match.

Make Cookie Sandwiches

Get creative and turn your cookies into delightful sandwiches! Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting or whipped cream between two cookies for a decadent dessert.

Store for Freshness

For the best taste, consume your cookies within a week if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you wish to keep them longer, freeze the dough and bake fresh cookies as needed.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Congratulations! With this cozy recipe for pumpkin almond cookies, you’ve learned that baking can be as simple as it is rewarding. Remember, it’s easier than it looks, and you have the power to customize it to your heart’s delight. These cookies are a timeless classic, perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own, making them especially beginner-approved.

If you try this recipe, I would love to hear how it turns out for you! Don’t hesitate to drop a comment or share your baking experience. Now, it’s time to roll up those sleeves and get baking—your kitchen will be filled with warmth and sweetness, and I can’t wait to hear about your cozy autumn moments.

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FAQs About Pumpkin Almond Cookies