Pumpkin Stick Cookies

These Pumpkin Stick Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their crunchy texture makes them ideal for stirring your favorite hot beverages, releasing sweet and spicy pumpkin flavors with every dip. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy evening at home or hosting a gathering, these fun cookie sticks will impress your guests while adding a seasonal twist to your snacks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Flavorful Twist: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a deliciously unique flavor profile that pairs well with coffee or tea.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal as a snack on their own or as an accompaniment for your favorite drinks, these cookies are sure to satisfy.
• Fun Presentation: The stick shape adds a playful touch to your dessert table, making them great for parties or holiday gatherings.
• Healthy Indulgence: Made with wholesome ingredients like pumpkin and unrefined sugar, these cookies are a guilt-free treat.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Silicone spatula
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or cutting wheel
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly for consistent dough.
• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing the dough, especially if you opt for the paddle attachment.
• Silicone spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients without damaging the dough.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking, ensuring uniform results.

Ingredients

• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (+ little more to work the dough)
• 1/2 cup Pumpkin Puree
• 1/3 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon Baking Powder
• 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spices
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup
• 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spices
• 1/3 cup Unrefined Sugar

How to Make Pumpkin Stick Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature before baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly oil it with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer:
1. Combine pumpkin puree, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spices, and optional vanilla extract.
2. Stir using a silicone spatula until combined.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Using your hands, knead the dough until it forms a cohesive ball. If it feels too sticky, gradually add more flour (up to 2-3 tablespoons) while keeping it soft. Alternatively, use your stand mixer’s paddle attachment or dough hook.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

Lightly flour your work surface:
1. Place the dough on it and sprinkle extra flour over it.
2. Roll out into a rectangle measuring about 6 inches by 9 inches (15 cm x 22 cm) and roughly 0.4 inches thick (1 cm).

Step 6: Cut into Sticks

Use a sharp knife or cutting wheel:
1. Slice strips of dough about 0.2 inches wide (5 mm).
2. Aim for around 16 sticks in total.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Brush each strip’s top with maple syrup:
1. Sprinkle with pumpkin spice sugar mixture so it adheres well.
2. Arrange each stick on the prepared baking sheet with space between them; they won’t expand much while baking.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about:
– 16–20 minutes, depending on how crunchy you want them.
– Aiming for golden brown tops is ideal; around 18 minutes often works best.

Step 9: Cool Down

Once baked, let them cool on the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Serve

Serve these pumpkin stick cookies as delightful dippers in coffee or tea, enjoying how they soften with each dunk!

How to Serve Pumpkin Stick Cookies

These Pumpkin Stick Cookies make a delightful addition to your coffee or tea time. Their crunchy texture is perfect for stirring, and they can be enjoyed in various ways.

With Your Favorite Coffee

• Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee for a perfect morning treat. The pumpkin flavors enhance the richness of the coffee.

As a Sweet Snack

• Enjoy them as an afternoon snack while watching your favorite show. Their crunchy texture provides a satisfying crunch between bites.

Dipped in Hot Chocolate

• Dunk these cookies in hot chocolate for a sweet and spicy twist. The warmth will soften them, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Gift Them to Friends

• Package them beautifully and share with friends or family as a thoughtful homemade gift. Everyone appreciates a delicious treat!

How to Perfect Pumpkin Stick Cookies

To ensure your Pumpkin Stick Cookies turn out just right, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Fresh puree enhances the flavor significantly compared to canned options.
• Knead Gently: Avoid over-kneading the dough to keep the cookies from becoming too tough.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking; slight variations can affect crunchiness.
• Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool fully on a rack to maintain their crispness.
• Store Properly: Keep them in an airtight container to prevent moisture from softening the cookies.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add extra spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for a personalized flavor boost.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Stick Cookies

These cookies pair well with several side dishes that complement their flavors.

1. Spiced Chai Latte: A warm drink that enhances the pumpkin spice notes in the cookies.
2. Apple Slices with Cinnamon: Fresh and crunchy, these provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Creamy Yogurt Dip: A light and tangy dip that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory option alongside your sweet snack.
5. Roasted Nuts: Crunchy nuts offer additional texture and are great for snacking together.
6. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the dessert’s sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Stick Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring Dough Consistency: If your dough is too sticky, it can be challenging to work with. Always add flour gradually until you achieve a soft but manageable consistency.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can make the cookies excessively hard. Monitor them closely and aim for a golden brown color for the perfect crunch.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining your baking sheet can result in sticking. Always use parchment paper or lightly oil your baking surface to ensure easy removal.
• Not Allowing Enough Cooling Time: Cutting into the cookies too soon can lead to crumbling. Let them cool on the pan before transferring them to a cooling rack.
• Neglecting Flavor Enhancers: Omitting spices like pumpkin pie spices can dull the flavor. Be sure to measure these spices accurately for maximum flavor impact.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pumpkin Stick Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Pumpkin Stick Cookies

• Wrap individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating Pumpkin Stick Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350 °F (175 °C). Place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. This will soften them slightly.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet for 1-2 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pumpkin Stick Cookies?

Pumpkin Stick Cookies are crunchy, coffee-friendly treats made from pumpkin puree and spices, perfect for dipping or stirring into beverages.

How do I customize my Pumpkin Stick Cookies?

You can customize your cookies by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or different spices based on your preference!

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree?

Yes! Fresh pumpkin puree works well, but ensure it’s smooth and has no excess moisture that could alter the dough’s consistency.

How do I know if my cookies are baked properly?

Look for a golden brown color; this indicates they are done. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with few crumbs attached.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking to enjoy these delicious cookies without gluten.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Stick Cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors and crunchiness, making them perfect as coffee dipper or sweet snack. With endless customization options, you can easily tailor them to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these versatile treats!