Description

These Pumpkin Pie Cookies feature a chewy brown-sugar base filled with a silky, spiced pumpkin custard, successfully mimicking a classic tart in a bite-sized format. The recipe employs precise temperature control and specific dairy choices to ensure a perfect set and a rich, autumnal flavor profile.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus 1 tsp for filling
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree
3 tbsp brown sugar
1 large egg, for filling
2 tbsp evaporated milk
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cream the room temperature butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large bowl for 1-2 minutes until aerated.
Mix in one egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is fully emulsified.
Whisk together 2 cups flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda in a separate medium bowl.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
Shape the dough into an 11-inch log, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Slice the chilled log into 14 portions and roll each into a smooth ball.
Place balls 3 inches apart on parchment-lined sheets and use a floured teaspoon to press a deep divot into each.
Chill the shaped dough for another 10-15 minutes.
Whisk together pumpkin puree, 3 tbsp brown sugar, one egg, evaporated milk, 1 tsp flour, and pumpkin pie spice in a small bowl until smooth.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and fill each cookie divot with approximately 2 teaspoons of the pumpkin mixture.
Bake for 3 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10 more minutes.
Cool completely on the pan before transferring to a wire rack to allow the custard to set.

Notes

To achieve a professional finish, try the double-fill technique by adding a small extra drop of custard to the center of each cookie halfway through the final baking stage. Always ensure your filling ingredients are at room temperature to prevent the custard from breaking or baking unevenly. Store these cookies in a single layer to maintain the integrity of the soft custard centers.

Prep Time: 45 mins
Cook Time: 13 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American