Thanksgiving Cookies With Pumpkin Pie Filling And Fall Shortbread Base
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Delight your family with these charming Thanksgiving cookies that beautifully blend the warmth of fall flavors. The buttery shortbread base perfectly complements the rich and creamy pumpkin pie filling, creating a festive treat that’s both delicious and nostalgic. Perfect for kids to help make and enjoy, these cookies embody the spirit of the season while making great additions to any Thanksgiving dessert table.
These Thanksgiving cookies bring together the essence of the fall season. The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg combined with the sweet pumpkin filling makes them impossible to resist.
The Perfect Fall Treat
These Thanksgiving cookies are not only delightful in taste but also visually appealing. Each bite encapsulates the essence of fall, featuring the warm spices of pumpkin pie nestled in a buttery shortbread foundation. They make a charming addition to any holiday celebration and serve as a wonderful way to bring loved ones together in the kitchen.
With their unique combination of textures and flavors, these cookies can be a standout dessert at your Thanksgiving table. The creamy pumpkin filling contrasts perfectly with the crumbly shortbread, creating an unforgettable experience for family and friends. Whether served alongside coffee or warm apple cider, these cookies are sure to be a favorite.
Easy to Make With Kids
This cookie recipe is not just delicious; it’s incredibly simple, making it a perfect activity for kids to enjoy. Involving children in baking fosters a sense of teamwork and accomplishment. They can help mix the ingredients, spread the shortbread, and pour the pumpkin filling, making every step of the process a fun adventure.
Additionally, these cookies provide an excellent opportunity to teach kids about measuring ingredients and the importance of following a recipe. As they get hands-on in the kitchen, they also learn valuable skills that will last a lifetime, along with creating sweet memories that will be cherished during the holidays.
A Festive Gourmet Touch
These cookies not only satisfy your taste buds but also elevate your holiday festivities with their gourmet touch. The rich flavors of the pumpkin pie filling paired with the melt-in-your-mouth shortbread make them a classy addition to your dessert spread. They are perfect for impressing guests and family alike.
Don’t forget to decorate these Thanksgiving cookies! A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel can add a delightful finishing touch. As you serve them, they will not only taste special but look beautifully inviting, helping to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for your Thanksgiving gathering.
Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients to make the cookies.
For the shortbread base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the pumpkin pie filling
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves
- 1 egg
Make sure to have everything prepped before you start.
Instructions
Follow the steps below to create these delightful cookies.
Make the Shortbread Base
In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour and salt, mixing until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Prepare the Pumpkin Pie Filling
In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, spices, and egg until smooth.
Assemble the Cookies
Spread the shortbread mixture in a baking dish. Pour the pumpkin filling over the shortbread base and spread evenly.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15 minutes. Let cool before cutting into squares.
Enjoy your delicious Thanksgiving cookies!
Storage Tips
To keep your Thanksgiving cookies fresh, make sure to store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will prevent the shortbread from becoming too soft or losing its delightful texture. If you wish to keep them for longer, you can also freeze them. Just layer parchment paper between the cookies before sealing them in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll be good for up to three months.
When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispy edges. This allows you to savor the taste of Thanksgiving long after the holiday is over!
Serving Suggestions
These cookies shine when served on a platter alongside other Thanksgiving desserts like pecan pie or apple crisp. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side for an added indulgence. The combination of textures will create a delightful experience that guests will rave about.
Additionally, pairing the cookies with warm beverages like spiced chai tea or hot chocolate can complement the fall flavors beautifully. This not only enhances the dining experience but also creates a comforting atmosphere perfect for sharing stories and laughter around the holiday table.
Healthier Alternatives
If you're looking to lighten up this recipe, consider substituting some ingredients for healthier options. For example, you can use coconut oil instead of butter, or opt for whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. These changes will not only reduce calories but also add nutritional benefits without sacrificing too much flavor.
Using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey in place of brown sugar is another excellent alternative. Not only does this add depth to the flavor, but it can also make these cookies a little more heart-healthy while still keeping the holiday spirit intact.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of filling?
Yes, you can substitute the pumpkin filling with any other flavored filling you prefer.
→ How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Thanksgiving Cookies With Pumpkin Pie Filling And Fall Shortbread Base
Delight your family with these charming Thanksgiving cookies that beautifully blend the warmth of fall flavors. The buttery shortbread base perfectly complements the rich and creamy pumpkin pie filling, creating a festive treat that’s both delicious and nostalgic. Perfect for kids to help make and enjoy, these cookies embody the spirit of the season while making great additions to any Thanksgiving dessert table.
Created by: Talia Preston
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the shortbread base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the pumpkin pie filling
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves
- 1 egg
How-To Steps
In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour and salt, mixing until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, spices, and egg until smooth.
Spread the shortbread mixture in a baking dish. Pour the pumpkin filling over the shortbread base and spread evenly.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15 minutes. Let cool before cutting into squares.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 2g