These delicious Pumpkin Spice Cutouts taste just like pumpkin pie, with a soft, spiced texture and a rich buttery icing that makes them even more irresistible. Not only do they look like adorable pumpkin pie slices, but they also capture the essence of fall in every bite. Perfect for the holidays or anytime you want to indulge in seasonal flavors.
Ingredients:
For the Pumpkin Spice Cutouts:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Buttercream Icing:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Orange food coloring (optional, for a more festive look)
Instructions:
For the Pumpkin Spice Cutouts:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. - Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Set aside. - Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Beat until combined. - Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. The dough will be soft but firm enough to roll out. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. - Chill the Dough:
Divide the dough into two equal portions and wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out. - Roll and Cut the Cookies:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough to about 1/4-inch thick. Using a pumpkin pie slice-shaped cookie cutter or your favorite shape, cut out the cookies. Place them on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart. - Bake:
Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheets before decorating.
For the Buttercream Icing:
- Make the Buttercream:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low to avoid a mess, then increase the speed and beat until smooth and fluffy. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until the icing is light and spreadable. If you prefer a firmer icing, add more powdered sugar. - Color the Icing (Optional):
Add a few drops of orange food coloring to the icing for a festive, pumpkin-like look. Mix until evenly colored. - Decorate the Cookies:
Once the pumpkin spice cutouts have cooled completely, use a small offset spatula or piping bag to decorate the cookies with the buttercream icing. You can create simple swirls, outline the edges, or even pipe a cute « whipped cream » effect on top of the pumpkin pie slices for extra charm. - Allow the Icing to Set:
Let the decorated cookies sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the buttercream to set before serving or storing.
Tips:
- Chill the dough: Chilling the dough before cutting and baking helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading during baking.
- Make ahead: You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the fridge before rolling out.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add a dash of maple syrup or vanilla extract to the dough for an extra flavor boost.
Storage:
Store the pumpkin spice cutouts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure the icing is fully set before stacking or storing them.
These Pumpkin Spice Cutouts with Buttercream Icing are perfect for adding a festive touch to your fall gatherings. The rich, spiced flavor and the creamy icing make them an instant favorite!