Autumn Pumpkin Spice Kiss Cookies
Embrace the flavors of fall with these delightful Autumn Pumpkin Spice Kiss Cookies. Inspired by the classic peanut butter blossom, this recipe features rich pumpkin puree and a blend of warm spices, creating a soft, chewy cookie that's perfect for the season. Each bite is topped with a luscious Hershey's Pumpkin Spice White Chocolate Kiss, adding a sweet and creamy finish. Ideal for gatherings, holiday events, or cozy afternoons with a warm beverage, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
All-purpose flour
3 cups (Sifted)
Light brown sugar
3/4 cup (Packed)
Granulated sugar
1/2 cup (None)
Pumpkin puree
1 cup (None)
Ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons (None)
Ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Ground ginger
3/4 teaspoon (None)
Ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon (None)
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (None)
Baking powder
2 teaspoons (None)
Baking soda
1 teaspoon (None)
Eggs
2 (Beaten)
Butter
1/2 cup (Softened)
Hershey's Pumpkin Spice White Chocolate Kisses
30-40 (Unwrapped)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Autumn Pumpkin Spice Kiss Cookies?
These are soft, chewy pumpkin-flavored cookies inspired by the classic peanut butter blossom, featuring warm fall spices and topped with a Hershey's Pumpkin Spice White Chocolate Kiss.
What type of pumpkin should I use for this recipe?
You should use 100% pure pumpkin puree. Do not use pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that will alter the recipe balance.
Which Hershey's Kisses are best for these cookies?
The recipe specifically calls for Hershey's Pumpkin Spice White Chocolate Kisses to enhance the seasonal flavor profile.
Can I use regular milk chocolate Kisses instead?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate Kisses if the pumpkin spice variety is unavailable.
What spices are included in the dough?
The cookie dough is seasoned with a blend of ground cinnamon, ground allspice, ground ginger, and ground cloves.
How do I prevent the Kisses from melting too much?
Wait about 2-3 minutes after removing the cookies from the oven before pressing the Kisses into the center, then let them cool completely to set.
Do I need to sift the flour?
Yes, sifting the all-purpose flour helps create a lighter, more uniform texture in these soft cookies.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can attempt to use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly from the original recipe.
How should I store these pumpkin cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their softness.
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Ensure they are completely cooled and the Kisses are set before layering them with parchment paper.
Is it necessary to use both baking powder and baking soda?
Yes, both are used to provide the necessary lift and reaction with the acidic pumpkin and brown sugar for a perfect rise.
Can I substitute the light brown sugar?
You can use dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor, or a mix of granulated sugar and molasses if you are in a pinch.
Should the butter be melted or softened?
The recipe requires softened butter to ensure it creams properly with the sugars for the correct cookie structure.
How many cookies does this recipe yield?
Based on the 30-40 Kisses required, this recipe typically makes between 2.5 to 3 dozen cookies.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
While not strictly required, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can make it easier to handle and help prevent excessive spreading.
Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?
Yes, finely chopped pecans or walnuts would be a great addition to the pumpkin spice base for extra crunch.
What if I can't find pumpkin spice Kisses?
You can use white chocolate chips or even a dollop of cream cheese frosting in the center if you cannot find the seasonal Kisses.
How do I know when the cookies are finished baking?
The edges should be set and slightly golden, while the centers remain soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the pan.
Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices?
Yes, you can substitute the cinnamon, allspice, ginger, and cloves with approximately 3.5 teaspoons of a pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice.
Should the eggs be at room temperature?
Room temperature eggs incorporate more easily into the batter, leading to a more uniform dough.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
To make them vegan, you would need to use a plant-based butter, egg substitutes (like flax eggs), and dairy-free chocolate alternatives.
Are these cookies soft or crunchy?
These cookies are designed to be soft and cake-like due to the moisture in the pumpkin puree.
Can I roll the dough balls in sugar before baking?
Yes, rolling the dough balls in extra granulated sugar or a cinnamon-sugar mix before baking adds a nice sparkle and crunch.
How do I get the Kisses to stick to the cookie?
Pressing the Kiss firmly into the center of the warm cookie creates a slight indentation and allows the bottom of the chocolate to melt and bond with the cookie.
Can I use an electric mixer?
Yes, using a hand mixer or stand mixer is recommended to properly cream the butter and sugar and incorporate the pumpkin.
What makes these cookies perfect for fall?
The combination of real pumpkin, aromatic spices like ginger and cloves, and the seasonal pumpkin spice chocolate makes them a quintessential autumn treat.
Do I need to grease the cookie sheet?
It is best to use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, but a light greasing will work to prevent sticking.
Can I use fresh roasted pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, as long as the fresh pumpkin is pureed smoothly and blotted with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Why did my Kisses lose their shape?
If the cookies are too hot when the Kisses are added, or if the cookies are placed in a warm container too soon, the chocolate may melt and lose its point.
What is the best way to measure the 3 cups of flour?
Use the 'spoon and level' method: spoon the flour into the measuring cup until overflowing, then level it off with a flat edge without packing it down.