I’ve been dreaming about these Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Spice Molasses Cookies since the first leaf changed color. There’s something magical about the way molasses and pumpkin mingle together, creating that perfect chewy texture that just screams fall comfort. The warm spices make my kitchen smell like a cozy cabin in the woods, and honestly, who doesn’t need that kind of comfort when the temperature drops? Trust me, your taste buds are about to experience what autumn would taste like if you could capture it in a cookie.
Why You’ll Love these Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Spice Molasses Cookies
When the leaves start changing colors and there’s a crisp chill in the air, nothing beats the aroma of these pumpkin spice molasses cookies filling your kitchen. I’m obsessed with how these cookies strike the perfect balance between chewy and soft, thanks to that magical combination of oats and molasses.
You’ll adore their warm, complex flavor profile—not too sweet, with the richness of molasses complementing the subtle pumpkin. Can you imagine a better fall treat? They’re incredibly versatile too—perfect with your morning coffee or as an after-dinner sweet. No fussy decorating required.
What Ingredients are in Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Spice Molasses Cookies?
These cookies bring together the perfect blend of fall flavors, with warming spices and rich molasses that just scream autumn comfort.
- 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 1/2 cup old fashioned oats
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional glaze: 3/4 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1 tablespoon maple syrup
For the best results, make sure your pumpkin puree is pure canned pumpkin rather than pumpkin pie filling, which already has spices and sweeteners added—we want to control those warm, spicy notes ourselves with our own perfect blend.
How to Make these Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Spice Molasses Cookies
Making these delightful fall cookies is surprisingly simple, even for those of us who mightn’t consider ourselves baking experts. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F—this temperature creates that perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers.
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and 1 1/2 cups of old-fashioned oats. These dry ingredients create the structure and texture that makes these cookies so irresistible.
In a large bowl, cream together 1 stick of softened unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Using a KitchenAid stand mixer makes the creaming process effortless and ensures perfectly incorporated ingredients. Beat in 1/4 cup of molasses (don’t you just love how it slowly ribbons into the mixture?) and 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin puree until well combined. Add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until everything is beautifully incorporated. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. The dough will be fairly soft, which is why chilling it for 30 minutes is pivotal—trust me, this step makes a world of difference in how the cookies hold their shape.
Drop spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-12 minutes until just lightly browned around the edges. Once cooled completely, you can drizzle them with the optional but highly recommended maple glaze (a simple mix of 3/4 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1 tablespoon maple syrup) for that extra touch of sweetness that makes these cookies absolutely swoon-worthy.
What to Serve with Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Spice Molasses Cookies
Nothing complements these spiced autumn treats quite like the perfect beverage pairing. I always reach for a warm mug of chai tea, where the spices mirror the cookie’s cinnamon and nutmeg notes. A classic glass of cold milk creates that timeless dunking experience we all crave.
For the adults, try a sweet dessert wine or spiced apple cider with a splash of bourbon. Coffee lovers, grab your favorite dark roast—the bitter edge balances the cookie’s sweetness perfectly.
Want to go all out? Serve these cookies alongside vanilla ice cream for an impromptu cookie sandwich that’ll make everyone smile.
Leftovers and Storage for these Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Spice Molasses Cookies
When properly stored, these fragrant pumpkin spice molasses cookies will maintain their chewy texture and fall flavors for days after baking. I recommend placing them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for about 5 days, though they rarely last that long in my house.
For longer storage, pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when the craving hits.
The cookies with glaze? Store those in a single layer, or stack carefully once the glaze has completely set.
Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Spice Molasses Cookies Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of these autumn cookies lies in how easily you can adapt them to suit your pantry and preferences. Don’t have pumpkin pie spice? Mix cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves instead. You can swap the pumpkin puree with mashed sweet potato or applesauce for different flavor notes.
For dietary needs, try gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats. Need them vegan? Replace butter with coconut oil, and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Brown sugar works wonderfully in place of granulated, giving a deeper caramel undertone.
Final Thoughts
Why do these pumpkin spice molasses cookies always remind me of crisp autumn afternoons with leaves crunching underfoot? There’s something magical about the way the molasses and pumpkin combine with those warm spices to create the perfect fall treat.
I hope you’ll try these cookies when you’re craving something that tastes like autumn in your mouth. They’re versatile enough for a casual family snack or dressed up with the maple glaze for company. And don’t forget, the dough freezes beautifully for those moments when unexpected guests arrive and you need a homemade touch, fast. If you’re looking for another quick autumn treat, consider trying a spice cake mix pumpkin bread that requires just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time.