Spice Up Fall: Almond-Encrusted Pumpkin Cookies for Cozy Celebrations

Every autumn, I find myself craving more than just pumpkin spice lattes. I want a treat that captures the season’s essence—sweet, spicy, and warm—yet offers a surprising twist. These pumpkin cookies, coated in crunchy almonds, do just that, blending fall flavors with a hint of elegance in every bite.

What sets this recipe apart is the delicate balance of textures. The soft, moist center of the cookie gives way to a fragrant almond crunch, making each mouthful an adventure. Plus, it’s perfect for spiced gatherings or a comforting solo snack amid crisp air and falling leaves.

Decorating comes optional, but I love adding a splash of icing or a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance that festive charm. Baking these cookies feels like a warm hug—simple, yet special enough to serve at your next autumn soirée.

Autumn Pumpkin Cookies with Almond Coating

This recipe yields soft and moist pumpkin cookies that are embellished with a crunchy almond coating. The cookies are baked until lightly golden, showcasing a warm orange hue, with a tender interior contrasted by a crisp exterior, perfect for seasonal gatherings or cozy afternoons.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 32 minutes mins

Servings: 24

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup coarsely chopped almonds

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Food processor or chopping knife
• Cooling rack

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and baking soda to ensure even distribution of spices.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, hearing a gentle whine from the mixer and watching the color deepen slightly.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until the mixture is smooth and slightly increased in volume. Then, stir in the pumpkin puree until combined and uniform.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until the flour is incorporated and the batter is thick but scoopable.
5. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
6. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. The cookies should feel firm to the touch but still soft inside.
7. While the cookies are baking, pulse the chopped almonds in a food processor until coarsely ground or chop with a knife until finely chopped for a more uniform crunch.
8. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and carefully transfer them to a cooling rack. Let them cool for at least 10 minutes to firm up before handling.
9. Arrange the cooled cookies on a plate and press the top gently into the chopped almonds, coating the surface with crunchy nut pieces for added texture and flavor.
10. Optionally, drizzle with a simple icing or dust lightly with cinnamon for a festive finish. Serve at room temperature and enjoy the tender pumpkin cookie with an almond crunch in every bite.

Making these pumpkin cookies is more than just baking; it’s embracing a season of cozy delights. They’re easy to whip up, with enough flair to impress guests or enjoy solo with a cup of tea. The aroma alone fills the house with nostalgic autumn notes, making every moment feel a bit more festive.

As the leaves swirl outside, these cookies remind me of slowing down and savoring life’s smaller joys. It’s the little rituals—like peeling almonds or watching cookies turn golden—that turn baking into a cherished tradition. Enjoy sharing this humble yet delightful treat as fall’s chill settles in.