Nutella Pumpkin Cookies

Pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat, and these Nutella Pumpkin Cookies take the classic cookie to another level. They are perfect for Halloween baking or any festive occasion. These pumpkin-shaped shortbread sandwich cookies are soft, delicious, and melt in your mouth, each stuffed with vegan-friendly Nutella that offers an indulgent surprise. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these cookies quickly.
• Vegan-Friendly: Perfect for those following a plant-based diet; these cookies contain no animal products.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin spice and Nutella creates a unique taste that everyone will love.
• Festive Appeal: Their cute pumpkin shape makes them an ideal treat for Halloween parties or autumn gatherings.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even as part of a special occasion celebration.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Nutella Pumpkin Cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Cookie cutter
• Rolling pin

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to achieve the perfect dough consistency.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking, ensuring your cookies cook evenly.
• Cookie cutter: Allows you to create fun shapes that enhance the visual appeal of your cookies.

Ingredients

To make these scrumptious Nutella Pumpkin Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 200g of dairy-free block butter (cold and cubed)
• 100g of caster sugar
• 300g of all purpose / plain flour
• 4 tablespoons of caster sugar
• 2 teaspoons of pumpkin spice (See notes for details)

For the Filling

• 1 jar of Vegan Nutella (I use Natures Store)

How to Make Nutella Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cold cubed dairy-free butter and 100g of caster sugar.
2. Mix until well combined and creamy.
3. Gradually add in the flour and pumpkin spice, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

1. Lightly flour your work surface.
2. Use your rolling pin to roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Cut out pumpkin shapes using your cookie cutter.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Place the cut-out cookies on a lined baking sheet.
3. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 4: Assemble Your Cookies

1. Once cooled, spread a generous amount of Vegan Nutella on one cookie.
2. Top with another cookie to create a sandwich.
3. Repeat until all cookies are filled.

Enjoy your delightful Nutella Pumpkin Cookies!

How to Serve Nutella Pumpkin Cookies

These delightful Nutella Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season. They can be served in various ways to enhance your enjoyment.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee – Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee for a cozy treat.
• Hot Chocolate – Enjoy the sweet combination of chocolate and pumpkin flavors.
• Spiced Chai Tea – The warm spices in chai complement the pumpkin spice in the cookies.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment – Serve alongside other cookies for a fun dessert platter.
• Fruit Slices – Fresh apple or pear slices add a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies.
• Vegan Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream makes for an indulgent topping.

For Halloween Parties

• Decorated Cookies – Use icing to decorate your cookies with spooky designs for festive appeal.
• In Treat Bags – Package them in cute treat bags as party favors for guests.

How to Perfect Nutella Pumpkin Cookies

To ensure your Nutella Pumpkin Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough – Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape.
• Use Cold Butter – Starting with cold, cubed butter creates a flaky texture that’s melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Measure Flour Precisely – Use a kitchen scale or spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies.
• Don’t Overbake – Keep an eye on them in the oven; they should be lightly golden around the edges but soft in the center.
• Let Them Cool Completely – Allowing cookies to cool helps set their shape and flavor before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Nutella Pumpkin Cookies

Nutella Pumpkin Cookies can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Apple Slices – Crisp and refreshing, they provide a nice crunch against the soft cookies.
2. Caramel Sauce – Drizzle some vegan caramel sauce for an extra sweet touch that pairs well with pumpkin flavors.
3. Coconut Yogurt – A dollop of coconut yogurt adds creaminess and balances sweetness.
4. Pumpkin Soup – A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup enhances the seasonal theme of your treats.
5. Roasted Nuts – A handful of spiced roasted nuts offers a crunchy contrast and nutty flavor.
6. Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens helps cut through the sweetness of the cookies, offering balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Nutella Pumpkin Cookies can be a delight, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Boldly underestimate the chill time: Not chilling the dough before baking can lead to cookies that spread too much. Always refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Boldly ignore ingredient temperatures: Using ingredients at the wrong temperature can affect texture. Ensure your dairy-free butter is cold and cubed for the best results.
• Boldly skip the pumpkin spice: Omitting pumpkin spice will result in bland cookies. Use fresh or quality spices to enhance flavor.
• Boldly neglect portion control: Making cookies too large can lead to uneven baking. Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon for consistent sizes.
• Boldly rush the cooling process: Removing cookies from the oven too soon can lead to crumbly results. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet first.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Nutella Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Nutella Pumpkin Cookies

• Freeze cookies individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates so you remember when they were made.

Reheating Nutella Pumpkin Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm cookies for about 5 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, flipping until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Nutella Pumpkin Cookies.

What makes Nutella Pumpkin Cookies unique?

The combination of pumpkin and vegan Nutella creates a delightful balance of flavors, making these cookies perfect for fall.

Can I use other nut butters instead of Nutella?

Yes! You can substitute with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for different flavors while keeping it vegan-friendly.

How do I ensure my cookies remain soft?

Avoid overbaking your cookies and store them in an airtight container after they’ve cooled completely.

Are these cookies suitable for Halloween baking?

Absolutely! Their festive shape and flavor make these Nutella Pumpkin Cookies a hit at Halloween parties.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for added texture, or experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg!

Final Thoughts

Nutella Pumpkin Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various fillings or spices according to your taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion!