Delicious Vegan Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies for Fall Fun

As the leaves turn and the air carries a crispness that beckons cozy evenings, I find myself dreaming of soft, pumpkin-spiced delights—like these Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies (Vegan). With a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top, these treats not only capture the essence of fall but also offer a simple, plant-based option for holiday gatherings. The best part? They're just the right balance of tender texture and rich pumpkin flavor, making them a hit for both vegans and non-vegans alike. Whether you’re looking for a fun treat for a Halloween party or a comforting snack to enjoy with your favorite warm beverage, these cookies check all the boxes. Curious about how to whip up this delightful batch? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?

Delicious Flavor: Packed with warm pumpkin spice and sweetness, these cookies evoke the cozy spirit of fall.

Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy a guilt-free treat that everyone can savor, even those with dietary restrictions.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these cookies can be whipped up in no time.

Endless Variations: Tailor the recipe to suit your taste—try substituting pumpkin with sweet potato for a delightful twist!

Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re gifting them or bringing them to a gathering, these cookies are guaranteed to please any crowd. Sweeten your autumn celebrations with these delightful Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies (Vegan), and serve them alongside a cozy drink!

Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies Ingredients

For the Batter
• Vegan Butter – Adds fat for tenderness and flavor; you can substitute with coconut oil for a hint of tropical taste.
• Pumpkin Puree – Delivers moisture and the signature pumpkin flavor essential for these Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies; sweet potato or butternut squash puree can also work well.
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and richness; feel free to use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic version.
• Organic Cane Sugar – Contributes sweetness and aids in caramelization; regular granulated sugar can easily replace it.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cookies; a gluten-free flour blend can be used for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Powder – Offers leavening for lighter, fluffier cookies.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm, festive flavors; if you’re out, equal parts cinnamon and nutmeg can make a great substitute.
• Cornstarch – Helps achieve that soft, tender texture; it's important not to omit this ingredient.

For the Topping
• Cinnamon Sugar – Adds a delightful, sweet crunch that enhances the fall flavors; you can simply mix equal parts of sugar and cinnamon for this topping.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies (Vegan)

Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup softened vegan butter, 1 cup pumpkin puree, ¾ cup brown sugar, and ¼ cup organic cane sugar. Using an electric mixer, blend these ingredients on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is fluffy and well combined. Adding 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract at this stage will heighten the sweetness.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. This dry mixture is crucial for the texture and flavor of the Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies. Ensure there are no lumps, and the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, using the electric mixer on low speed. Mix just until the dough comes together, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be soft and slightly sticky, which is key for achieving that tender cookie texture.

Step 4: Chill Dough
Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring they'll maintain cute shapes. While waiting, you can preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) to save time once the dough is ready.

Step 5: Roll and Cut
Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and roll out half onto a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Using cookie cutters, cut out fun shapes that fit the Halloween theme, placing them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Gather the scraps, re-roll, and cut until all dough is used.

Step 6: Bake
Carefully transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake the Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies for 6 to 8 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; they won't brown much, so look for set edges and a soft center. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Cool and Garnish
Allow the cookies to cool completely on the wire rack. For a delightful finish, sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar or add any other toppings you desire, making these Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies (Vegan) festive and irresistible. Enjoy the cozy aroma as they sit, ready to be devoured!

Storage Tips for Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, place cookies in the refrigerator. They can be stored there for up to 7 days, in an airtight container.

Freezer: Freeze cookies for extended storage—up to 3 months. Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Revitalizing: If cookies become slightly dry, microwave for 10 seconds or store them with a slice of apple to maintain moisture. Enjoy your Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies (Vegan) any time!

Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies (Vegan) Variations

Customize your Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

• Dairy-Free: Replace vegan butter with solid coconut oil for a delectable tropical twist.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend; your cookies will still be just as soft and delicious!

• Pumpkin Alternative: Swap pumpkin puree for sweet potato or butternut squash for a unique flavor.

• Lower Sugar: Use coconut sugar in place of brown sugar for a lower glycemic option while keeping that rich, sweet taste.

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or ginger for a subtle kick that complements the pumpkin spice beautifully.

The magic of these cookies is in their adaptability! If you're feeling adventurous, try out the idea of sprinkling your cookies with a mix of spices or even drizzle them with a simple glaze. You’ll never get bored with this recipe! For a classic twist, consider serving them alongside warm drinks, perfect for sharing with friends and family during autumn gatherings, just like with my Soft Pumpkin Cookies or Pumpkin Pie Cookies.

Expert Tips for Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies (Vegan)

• Chill Dough Well: Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading, ensuring your Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies keep their delightful shapes.

• Mix Carefully: Avoid overmixing the dough when combining wet and dry ingredients. This helps maintain a soft texture, essential for tender cookies.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while baking; they won’t brown much. Look for set edges; they’re done at around 6 to 8 minutes.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh pumpkin pie spice and check the expiration dates on your baking powder—this makes all the difference!

• Creative Shapes: Get creative with cookie cutters! Halloween-themed shapes can add an extra fun element to your cookies, making them perfect for parties.

Make Ahead Options

These Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies (Vegan) are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. Additionally, you can also freeze the rolled-out shapes on a baking sheet for up to 3 months. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to bake, simply thaw the frozen cookies in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. This way, you'll enjoy freshly baked cookies that are just as delicious with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies (Vegan)

As the scent of pumpkin spice fills your home, it's time to think about the perfect accompaniments for these delightful treats!

• Hot Apple Cider: The warmth and sweetness of spiced cider enhance the cozy vibes of the cookies. Sip slowly by the fire for a perfect fall evening.

• Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a refreshing contrast to the spiced cookies, creating a delightful balance of flavors and temperatures.

• Pumpkin Spice Lattes: Complement the cookies with a rich, frothy latte to amplify those pumpkin spice notes, creating an unforgettable autumn treat.

• Chocolate Dip: A dip of vegan dark chocolate adds indulgence and sweetness, creating an exciting twist on classic flavors that everyone will love.

• Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: Serve these alongside fluffy, cinnamon sugar doughnuts for a festive treat platter that celebrates the season. Each bite will transport you to a fall fair!

• Fresh Fruit Salad: Lighten up the dessert table with a colorful fruit salad, offering a fresh and juicy contrast to the rich flavors of your cookies.

• Chai Tea: The spiced warmth of chai tea echoes the cookies’ flavors while delivering a comforting beverage option that will envelop you in cozy warmth.

• Pecan Pie Bars: For a bold dessert option, pair cookies with rich pecan pie bars—sweet, nutty, and pleasantly chewy, they can beckon to holiday gatherings!

Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies (Vegan) Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best pumpkin puree for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for a smooth, rich product without any added sugars or spices. Canned pumpkin is often the most convenient option, and I recommend choosing organic brands if possible for better flavor. You can also make your own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin, which gives a lovely, homemade touch.

What’s the best way to store my cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies (Vegan) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you find some have become slightly dry, try placing a slice of apple in the container to maintain moisture. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze your Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies (Vegan) for up to 3 months! To do this, allow the cookies to cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a labeled freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight for a delightful, fresh treat.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies spread too much, it may be due to warm dough or insufficient chilling. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, and keep everything cool while working. Additionally, if your kitchen is warm, pop the cut cookie shapes in the fridge for another 10-15 minutes before baking to prevent excess spreading.

Are there any ingredient substitutions for allergies?
Of course! To make these cookies allergy-friendly, you can substitute the vegan butter with solid coconut oil for a dairy-free option. If gluten-free is the goal, simply use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Always check labels for allergens and avoid cross-contamination in your kitchen.

How can I make these cookies less sweet?
You can easily adjust the sweetness of your Halloween Pumpkin Spice Cookies (Vegan) by reducing the amount of brown sugar or using a substitute like coconut sugar, which has a lower glycemic impact. If you're looking for a more mellow flavor, you can omit the cane sugar altogether, but just know that it might affect the texture. Enjoy experimenting!