Introduction
Can you feel it? The crisp air, the golden leaves, and the craving for everything warm and spiced! Fall is the ultimate season for baking, and searches for “fall cookies” have spiked by 50% this year. Whether you’re planning Thanksgiving treats, cozy weekend bakes, or festive gifts, these cookie recipes will bring all the autumn magic straight into your kitchen. Let’s dive into flavors that feel like a hug!
Ingredients List (For Classic Spiced Fall Cookies)
Cookie Dough:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour
Taking a little extra time to chill the dough ensures thick, chewy cookies every time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
Beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until creamy and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5: Combine and Fold
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients. Stir in any optional add-ins.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Chill dough for 30 minutes to enhance flavors and prevent spreading.
Step 7: Bake
Scoop dough into 1.5-inch balls and place them on prepared sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (1/24th of batch)
- Calories: ~160
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 22g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 2g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Flour Swap: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour.
- Butter Alternative: Use coconut oil or vegan butter.
- Sugar Swap: Reduce sugar by 25% or use coconut sugar.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Serving Suggestions
- Dust cookies with powdered sugar for a snowy look.
- Pair with a spiced chai latte for the ultimate cozy experience.
- Stack and wrap in twine for rustic, heartfelt gifts.
- Create a “cookie board” with a variety of fall-flavored cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the chill time: Leads to flat cookies.
- Overmixing the dough: Results in tough cookies.
- Overbaking: They should look slightly soft when you remove them from the oven.
- Not using fresh spices: Fresh spices deliver stronger, warmer flavors.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze Dough: Freeze pre-scooped dough balls for up to 2 months.
- Freeze Baked Cookies: Freeze baked cookies with parchment layers between them.
Conclusion
There’s no better way to celebrate the beauty of fall than by filling your home with the scent of freshly baked spiced cookies! These easy, cozy fall cookie recipes bring comfort, joy, and a little taste of the season with every bite. Pin this guide now and make your autumn days even sweeter! 🍂🍪✨
FAQs
Can I double the recipe? Yes! Perfect for holiday cookie trays.
Can I skip chilling the dough? You can, but your cookies will be thinner and less chewy.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! Refrigerate for up to 48 hours before baking.
What’s the best spice blend for fall cookies? Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves together create the perfect warm profile.
Are these cookies good for gifting? Yes! They hold up beautifully and package well for gifts.