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Need a delicious, sweet snack for an autumn party or a Halloween celebration? These delicious little Pumpkin Shortbread Cookies will be a hit!
The minute I saw these fun candy pumpkins at the market, my mind started spinning and before I knew it, ideas for these Pumpkin Shortbread Cookies were filling my brain even though the weather wasn't really cooperating...
In Wisconsin, where I lived for the first 27 years of my life, fall arrived when it was "supposed" to. When the calendar flipped to September, nights seemed to suddenly (almost magically) turn cool and crisp. Perfect V's of wild geese were familiar sights, honking their way south through clear autumn skies, enjoying a zillion dazzling hues of crimson and gold below. It was definitely the time to turn in summer-whites and pull out plaids, sweaters and corduroys.
Not so much here in North Carolina. Summer days, in this part of the country, seem to roll on and on... We're creeping up to the last week of September and the forecast for today is the low 90's. Yikes! And here I am, longing to wear sweatshirts, leggings and scarves. The way it's "supposed" to be...
I know cool autumn days are coming, we're just not quite there yet. There's one funny thing though, that always seems like a "promise" of fall to me, even if the weather doesn't cooperate. It's the big displays of candy corn, candy pumpkins and other Halloween treats that begin to show up here, there and everywhere. My favorite are the little orange and green pumpkins and mysteriously, a bag (or two) often ends up in my cart. Hmmm...
In addition to being a fun symbol of fall, I think the pumpkins are super cute. As soon as I saw them this year, I got an idea to try out a thumb-print type cookie with a candy pumpkin right in the center. A few days ago, I decided to give it a whirl.
I tried one recipe that didn't work at all. It was tasty but the cookies were really flat. Then I remembered an old favorite, never-fail shortbread recipe. I found it years ago on the Land of Lakes website and have used it as a basis for all kinds of cookies. The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients, it's easy to throw together and the results are buttery, crisp and super delicious.
To go with the fall theme, I adapted the Land of Lakes recipe, using brown sugar instead of white and adding a spoonful of pumpkin pie spice.
After the dough is chilled for a bit, it's rolled into balls which are tossed in Demerara sugar before baking. Demerara (Turbinado can also be used) sugar is large grained raw sugar. It has a crunchy texture and adds a shimmery look to cookies, cakes and other desserts. You'll find it in most larger grocery stores in the sugar section or online.
The pumpkins would melt in the oven so they can't be added before baking. Instead, I tucked one into the center of each shortbread cookie just as they emerged from the oven. Some of the cookies cracked slightly when I added the pumpkins. But they can be easily pushed back together while hot and nobody will know.
Need a delicious, sweet snack for a autumn party or a Halloween celebration? Want to surprise your co-workers with a treat that will make them smile?
It doesn't take much hands-on time to whip up a batch of these Pumpkin Shortbread Cookies and they're such a fun way to celebrate fall (no matter what the thermometer reads)!
LOTS OF PEOPLE ASK WHAT KIND OF COOKWARE, SMALL APPLIANCES, CUTLERY, ETC. I USE IN THE KITCHEN. HERE’S WHAT I USED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE.
- 1 cup butter softened
- ⅔ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup Demerara or Turbinado sugar*
- candy pumpkins
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Combine butter, brown sugar and vanilla extract in the bowl of an electric mixer. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy. Add flour, pumpkin pie spice and salt. Beat at low speed, scraping bowl often, until well mixed. Cover; refrigerate until firm, about 45 minutes.
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Heat oven to 350°F. Line two sheet pans with parchment paper. Place Demerara sugar in a large shallow bowl.
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Shape dough into 1-inch balls**. Roll dough balls in Demerara sugar and place them 2 inches apart on prepared sheet pans.
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Bake 14-18 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Remove from oven and immediately, place a candy pumpkin in the center of each cookie. Press down gently, as far as you can. If cookie cracks when inserting pumpkin, just push it back together and hold in place for 2-3 seconds. Cool completely.
* Demerara sugar is large grained raw sugar. It has a crunchy texture and adds a shimmery look to cookies, cakes and other desserts. You'll find it in most larger grocery stores in the sugar section or it can be ordered online. Turbinado sugar is similar and could also be used.
**I use a 1 ½ tablespoon cookie scoop to scoop up the dough. It's an easy way to keep the cookies a uniform size. You can also weigh the dough. Mine were about 20g.
Terryk says
Just made them after seeing them on Table de Nana's blog. They are adorable. The kids will love them. Even plain the cookie tastes great. Almost like apple cider donuts. A keeper. Thanks.
Chris Scheuer says
So glad you enjoyed them Terry! Yes, sometimes when I bake them, I make some without the pumpkin and they get gobbled down by "goblins" in our house just as fast as the little pumpkin guys!
Christine Cage says
Chris, thanks for this cute idea; I will be making them with my granddaughter, Ellie, this coming week as I visit her in Florida where one needs lots reminders that it is, indeed, fall!
Chris Scheuer says
You're so welcome Christine! Have a wonderful time in Florida.
Monique says
Chris..just made some for the Littles this weekend..as usual..wonderful recipe..even halved:)Thank you!
Sandra Garth says
These are so festive and I can see them on a dessert buffet for Halloween and Thanksgiving.
Laura | Tutti Dolci says
You know I love shortbread and these festive cookies are the perfect fall treat!
Susan says
I don't think I knew that you lived in Wisconsin, Chris! Here in the Milwaukee area that September change just came about in the past week. It's been a wonderful mild but rainy September until now. Adorable cookies!
Adina says
Such pretty cookies. I love the look of that sugar, I can imagine its sweet crunchiness. I will try these cookies, especially as you say that they are so reliable, I will put them on my December cookie baking list. 🙂
Liz says
What a fun way to turn a yummy cookie into a Halloween treat! My kids love those candy cornish pumpkins 🙂
Janie Bryant says
Hi Chris, I am regular fan to your site. The photography is exceptional and I greatly appreciate how you write about your creations. I feel as if i am sitting down with you over a cup of tea and you are sharing all your preparations and than the outcome. I look forward to each of your posts. My favorite recipe is the Rosemary Shortbread. It is quite a hit with my son and daughter in law as we love to utilize fresh herbs in our cooking/baking. Thank you for such a delightful post!
Chris Scheuer says
Thank you Janie, what a sweet comment! That Rosemary Shortbread is pretty darn amazing! 🙂
Melanie | Melanie Makes says
We went into the mountains yesterday and it was snowing - can't believe it's already almost that time! Love these sweet treats, Chris!
dorothy says
These treats look really delicious. I know my Grandkids will love them., especially the little pumpkin candy on top.
We have lived in Florida for the past 20 years and there is no Fall here. If it is , its extremely short. I am originally from New York and Fall there was beautiful. I miss heavy sweaters, boots, and the smell in the air. Can't wait to make these cookies. TY for another delicious recipe.
Inger @ Art of Natural Liivng says
How inspired to combine shortbread and pumpkin! I am in Wisconsin and, yes, it is feeling like fall here (though the colors seem to be a bit later arriving)...
Chris Scheuer says
Ah... hope you're enjoying it!
Debra Eliotseats says
Try and try again, right? I love these. So perfect for fall. (I'm waiting for that autumn chill, too.)
Tricia @ Saving room for dessert says
These are just so cute Chris! I adore a little shortbread cookie - and these little pumpkins are my husbands favorite Halloween treat. Pinning!
cheri says
These are so adorable Chris, love the little pumpkins on top!
Jennifer @ Seasons and Suppers says
Absolutely adorable pumpkin cookies! Must add these to my pumpkin baking list 🙂 Fall has definitely arrived in my part of the world - on schedule! There was even a little frost on my car windshield this morning. Great baking weather 😉
monique says
You know what? I think they are the cutest things..and pick some up for treats..now I know which treat,better get some soon:) Thanks Chris..
We saw on the news North Carolina has some flooding:(
Vick Bensinger says
I love these and they're perfect for Halloween. I'm definitely making these. So fun!
Ginny Hartzler says
The sugar I have is called Tubinado. It looks the same as yours. Is it?
Ginny Hartzler says
I am looking for this sugar! I have the raw sugar, which has another fancy name that I forgot. I hope I can find the Demerara. Whole Foods for sure will have it. These are SO cool. These little pumpkins are Phil's favorites. And this year I found something else tasty. Little pumpkins just like these, but they are jels rolled in sugar. Brachs.. They taste like citrus and are adorable. I bet even you would be hard pressed to make something with them.
Chris Scheuer says
Ha ha! Ginny! I do love a challenge! If you click on the pic of the demerara sugar above, it will take you to your source for the sugar!
sue | theviewfromgreatisland says
There is only one word for these...brilliant! I love a good thumbprint cookie but never thought to do a Halloween version, sharing and pinning!
Charlotte Moore says
These are very cute. I have never liked to eat candy corn. Never could stand the texture of it. These sure make a cute decoration though.
Chris Scheuer says
They definitely are a super sweet treat Charlotte!
Holly says
So you are from Wisconsin.....knew I liked you! So am I. Oconomowoc was my home town. After forty years living in Southern California, I too miss the V's of geese and the leaves changing to amber and orange. Piles of them to jump in. Ah Indian Summer ... dreamy.... Keep posting your delicious recipes and I will reminisce along with you.
Chris Scheuer says
Ahh, you're so sweet! Love your description, makes me feel a bit homesick 🙂
Angie@Angie's Recipes says
Super adorable and festive! Have never seen the candy pumpkins over here...so fun!
Chris Scheuer says
So true Angie! We've discovered they're not real common in many parts of the world! We have to "import" them to give to our daughter Cait when we visit her in London each fall!
Robyn Gleason says
How cute are these cookies, Chris! I love all the bright colours and fun food in the fall. Shared 🙂
Have a great weekend!
Chris Scheuer says
Thanks Robyn!