If you’re in the mood for a cozy, autumnal treat that you can whip up in under half an hour, these Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies are about to become your new go-to dessert. This recipe is a magic blend of bakery-worthy flavor and weeknight ease, thanks to a clever shortcut: cake mix! With just a handful of pantry ingredients, you’ll get cookies that are super soft, subtly spiced, and positively bursting with pumpkin goodness. Whether you’re serving them at a Halloween party or just craving something sweet with your coffee, Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies hit that warm, nostalgic sweet spot every single time.

Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe pulls its weight, contributing to the unbeatable flavor and texture of these Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies. You’ll only need a few basics, and each one makes a noticeable difference, from the spiced aroma to the melt-in-your-mouth centers.

Super moist vanilla cake mix (15.25 ounces): This is your fast track to perfectly soft, fluffy cookies without measuring out a dozen dry ingredients.
Pumpkin pie spice (2 teaspoons): Adds that signature warm, spiced flavor we all crave as soon as leaves start to fall.
Pumpkin puree (15 ounces): Gives the cookies their beautiful color, moisture, and rich pumpkin taste; be sure to use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Chopped pecans (3/4 cup, optional): For a delightful nutty crunch and extra flavor dimension, these are a wonderful add-in.
Vanilla frosting (16 ounces, optional): Slathered on top, this sweetens things up and makes your cookies look ready for a bakery window.
Additional pumpkin pie spice (for garnish, optional): Just a pinch on top for an extra dash of fall flair and aroma.

How to Make Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, line a large sheet pan with parchment paper. This prevents sticking, makes cleanup a breeze, and helps those pumpkin cookies bake up with perfectly golden bottoms.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, grab your vanilla cake mix and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk them together until the spice is evenly distributed throughout the mix. This helps ensure every bite is loaded with warm, fragrant flavor.

Step 3: Add the Pumpkin Puree

Now, for the star of the show! Spoon the pumpkin puree right into your bowl. Stir everything together until you have a thick, evenly colored dough. Don’t worry if it seems a little sticky – that’s what makes these cookies so wonderfully soft.

Step 4: Fold in Pecans (Optional)

If you love a bit of crunch, gently fold in the chopped pecans at this point. You’ll get a nutty layer of flavor and texture that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pumpkin and the warmth of the spice.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, drop thick mounds of dough onto your lined sheet pan. Leave about an inch between each one, as they’ll puff up a bit while baking. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes, just until a toothpick comes out clean from the center of one.

Step 6: Cool and Frost

Let your cookies cool completely on a wire rack. If you’re using vanilla frosting, spread or pipe it generously on top of each cookie. Finish up with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for extra pizzazz before serving these Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies with pride!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies

Garnishes

The joy of these cookies is that you can dress them up or down. Try topping them with a swirl of vanilla frosting and a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice, or press a whole pecan into each cookie for a touch of elegance and crunch. If you’re a chocolate fan, a drizzle of melted white or semisweet chocolate makes a festive finish.

Side Dishes

Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies are right at home alongside a mug of spiced chai, apple cider, or a simple cup of hot coffee. For an extra-indulgent autumn dessert plate, serve them with vanilla ice cream or a bowl of fresh whipped cream and berries.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your cookies prettily in a jar tied with a ribbon to gift to friends, or arrange them on a rustic wooden tray for a fall-themed party. For a special touch, sandwich a spoonful of cream cheese frosting between two cookies for the ultimate pumpkin whoopie pie experience. However you share them, Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies bring instant smiles!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they’re frosted, keep them in a single layer or separate with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing

Want to save some cookies for later? Freeze them unfrosted in a single layer until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving, and frost after thawing if you like.

Reheating

If you prefer your cookies warm and extra soft, microwave one or two for about 10 seconds before eating. This helps bring back that just-baked texture – especially irresistible if you’re adding frosting or a scoop of ice cream!

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor for Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies?

Absolutely! While vanilla cake mix delivers a classic taste, spice cake mix amps up the autumn flavor even more, and white or yellow cake mix work beautifully too. Just pick your favorite and follow the same steps.

Do I need to use eggs or oil in this recipe?

Nope! The pumpkin puree replaces both the eggs and any added oil, giving you perfectly moist cookies without any extra fat or fuss. It’s one of the reasons this recipe is so wonderfully simple.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes – just swap the regular cake mix for your favorite gluten-free vanilla cake mix. Be sure to check that your other ingredients (like pumpkin pie spice) are gluten-free as well, and you’re good to go.

Why are my cookies so soft or cakey?

Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies are meant to be soft and cake-like, thanks to all the moisture from the pumpkin. If you prefer a firmer cookie, bake them for an extra minute or try chilling the dough before baking to help them spread less.

What’s the best way to frost and decorate these cookies?

Let the cookies cool completely before frosting to prevent melting. Use a butter knife, spatula, or piping bag for your desired look, and finish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or colorful fall sprinkles if you’re feeling festive.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about baking (and eating!) a fresh batch of Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies, especially when fall is in the air. Whether you’re new to baking or a longtime cookie lover, this recipe is sure to spark joy and delicious memories. Give them a try and see just how easy and irresistible homemade cookies can be!

Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies Recipe

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5 from 13 reviews

Author: Patricia
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 30 cookies
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Pumpkin Cake Mix Cookies are a quick and easy dessert option, perfect for enjoying the flavors of fall. With just three simple ingredients and optional toppings, you can whip up a batch of delicious cookies in no time.

Ingredients

Cake Mix Cookies:

15.25 ounces super moist vanilla cake mix
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
15 ounces pumpkin puree

Optional:

3/4 cup chopped pecans
16 ounces vanilla frosting
Additional pumpkin pie spice for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
Mix: In a medium bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix and pumpkin pie spice. Add the pumpkin puree and mix until well combined.
Add Pecans: Fold in the chopped pecans, if using. Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto the prepared sheet pan.
Bake: Bake for 11-13 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cookies cool.
Frost: Optionally, frost the cookies with vanilla frosting before serving.

Notes

You can customize these cookies by adding chopped nuts or frosting for extra flavor.
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container for freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American