As the leaves turn brilliant shades of red and gold, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. Fall brings a bounty of flavors like pumpkin, apple, and cinnamon that make for irresistible treats. I’ve scoured the best recipes to bring you a collection of 50 fall cookie recipes that capture the essence of this cozy season.
Pumpkin Spice Delights
Pumpkin spice adds warmth to any cookie recipe, making it a favored choice for fall baking.
1. Classic Pumpkin Spice Cookies
Classic pumpkin spice cookies blend pumpkin puree with warm spices. Vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg enhance the pumpkin flavor. These cookies are soft and chewy, adding a comforting touch to your fall treats.
2. Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
Pumpkin snickerdoodles merge traditional snickerdoodles with pumpkin spice. The cookies have a soft texture and are rolled in a cinnamon-sugar mixture. Their spiced flavor makes them ideal for autumn gatherings.
3. Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Pumpkin oatmeal cookies combine oats and pumpkin puree. These cookies, enriched with cinnamon and nutmeg, offer a hearty yet sweet option. Add raisins or cranberries for extra flavor.
4. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies mix pumpkin puree with chocolate chips. They are soft and moist, interspersed with chocolate chunks. This cookie is perfect for those who love a touch of chocolate with their pumpkin spice.
5. Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cookies
Pumpkin cream cheese cookies feature a delightful cream cheese filling. Mixing pumpkin puree with spices, these cookies are soft and have a creamy center. They are great for dessert or as a tea-time treat.
6. Pumpkin Spice Latte Cookies
Pumpkin spice latte cookies mimic the flavors of the popular fall beverage. Coffee flavoring and pumpkin spice blend with pumpkin puree to create a unique and aromatic cookie, perfect for coffee lovers.
7. Pumpkin Pecan Sandies
Pumpkin pecan sandies offer a nutty twist on traditional sandies. Pecan pieces and pumpkin spice blend seamlessly in these cookies, providing a crumbly yet flavorful bite.
8. Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Pumpkin whoopie pies consist of pumpkin spice cake and cream filling. The soft, cake-like cookies sandwich a rich, spiced cream, creating an indulgent and festive treat.
Apple-Inspired Cookies
Apple-inspired cookies bring the crisp, sweet flavors of autumn directly into the kitchen. They’re perfect for cozying up on cool fall days.
9. Apple Cider Cookies
Apple cider cookies capture the essence of fall in every bite. These cookies boast a soft texture, thanks to the apple cider reduction in the dough. For added warmth, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar tops each cookie.
10. Caramel Apple Cookies
Caramel apple cookies combine tart apple bits with sweet caramel chunks. The chewiness of the caramel complements the crispness of the apple for an irresistible treat reminiscent of a classic caramel apple.
11. Apple Oatmeal Cookies
Apple oatmeal cookies offer a hearty, wholesome option. Rolled oats add texture, while apple pieces infuse the dough with moisture and sweetness. Cinnamon and nutmeg enhance these flavors, making every bite warm and satisfying.
12. Apple Pie Cookies
Apple pie cookies bring all the flavors of a traditional apple pie into a hand-held form. A buttery, flaky crust envelopes a spiced apple filling, delivering an unmistakable nostalgic taste. A drizzle of vanilla or caramel glaze can elevate these cookies.
13. Apple Butter Snickerdoodles
Apple butter snickerdoodles mix the tangy sweetness of apple butter into classic snickerdoodle dough. The apple butter creates a soft interior, while the cinnamon-sugar coating provides a delightful contrast. Each bite balances sweet and spicy notes.
14. Cinnamon Apple Chip Cookies
Cinnamon apple chip cookies feature dried apple chips for a unique twist. The chips add a subtle crunch and the right amount of apple flavor. Combined with cinnamon and brown sugar, these cookies achieve the perfect balance of crunch and spice, ideal for fall.
Maple and Brown Sugar Favorites
Maple syrup and brown sugar add rich, comforting flavors to cookies, making them perfect for fall. Here are some of my favorite recipes that highlight these ingredients.
15. Maple Pecan Cookies
Maple Pecan Cookies combine the deep flavors of pure maple syrup and toasted pecans. The crunchy nuts provide a satisfying contrast to the chewy cookie base. For an extra touch, I sometimes add a drizzle of maple glaze on top.
16. Brown Sugar Maple Cookies
Brown Sugar Maple Cookies are a must-try. These cookies have a deliciously soft texture thanks to the dark brown sugar, and the maple syrup infusion creates a unique autumn flavor. I recommend using pure maple syrup for the best result.
17. Maple Walnut Shortbread
Maple Walnut Shortbread offers a buttery, crumbly texture that’s elevated by toasted walnuts. The shortbread’s subtle sweetness from the maple syrup shines through. For a festive touch, I occasionally dip the edges in melted white chocolate.
18. Maple Cream Sandwich Cookies
Maple Cream Sandwich Cookies feature two maple-flavored cookies with a rich, creamy maple filling. The creamy filling balances the chewiness of the cookies, making each bite delightful. I often enjoy these with a hot cup of coffee.
19. Brown Butter Maple Cookies
Brown Butter Maple Cookies are a rich and decadent treat. The nutty flavor of browned butter paired with maple syrup creates a savory-sweet profile. Before baking, I like to sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top to enhance the flavors.
Each recipe showcases the essence of maple and brown sugar, offering a comforting taste of fall in every bite.
Spiced Cookie Classics
Spiced cookies capture the essence of fall baking with warm, aromatic flavors. These classics bring comfort and seasonal cheer.
20. Chewy Molasses Cookies
Chewy molasses cookies combine rich molasses and spices. Each bite offers a soft, chewy texture with notes of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Ideal for fall gatherings, molasses cookies bring warmth to the season.
21. Gingerbread Cookies
Gingerbread cookies blend spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These cookies, with their signature snap, are perfect for decorating with icing or enjoying plain. Gingerbread, a holiday favorite, makes any fall occasion special.
22. Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Cinnamon sugar cookies balance sweetness and spice. Coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, these cookies carry a crunchy exterior and a soft interior. They’re easy to make and beloved by all ages, perfect for adding a touch of fall to your cookie jar.
23. Chai Spice Cookies
Chai spice cookies mix chai tea spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. These cookies offer a unique flavor profile, reminiscent of a warm cup of chai. Pair them with tea for a cozy fall experience.
24. Spiced Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Spiced oatmeal raisin cookies elevate the classic oatmeal cookie. Incorporating cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with oats and raisins, these cookies provide a hearty, flavorful bite. They make a satisfying treat during the fall months.
25. Cardamom Snickerdoodles
Cardamom snickerdoodles add an exotic twist to the traditional snickerdoodle. The combination of cardamom and cinnamon offers a sophisticated flavor. Rolled in sugar and spice, these cookies deliver a delightful autumn experience, perfect for any cookie collection.
Nutty Fall Cookies
Nutty cookies offer a delightful crunch and richness, making them perfect for fall. Below are some nutty cookie recipes that combine nuts with seasonal flavors.
26. Pecan Sandies
Pecan Sandies blend a buttery, crumbly texture with the rich taste of pecans. To make these cookies, cream butter and sugar, then mix in chopped pecans and vanilla extract. Shape the dough into balls, press them flat, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes or until golden. They’re a treat for nut lovers and pair well with a cup of hot tea.
27. Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookies
Hazelnut Chocolate Chip Cookies offer nutty flavor with bursts of chocolate. Combine flour, baking soda, and salt in one bowl. In another, mix butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in dry ingredients. Fold in chopped hazelnuts and chocolate chips before baking at 375°F for 10 minutes. These cookies are perfect for cool autumn evenings.
28. Almond Crescent Cookies
Almond Crescent Cookies feature a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a hint of almond. Start by creaming butter, powdered sugar, and almond extract. Add flour and finely chopped almonds to form a dough. Shape the dough into crescent shapes and bake at 325°F for 20 minutes. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar. These cookies add elegance to any fall dessert table.
29. Walnut Snowball Cookies
Walnut Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes, are a festive fall favorite. Mix together butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, then add flour and finely chopped walnuts. Shape the dough into small balls and bake at 350°F for 12 minutes. While warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar. Once they cool, roll them again for a sweet, snowy coating.
30. Pistachio Cranberry Cookies
Pistachio Cranberry Cookies combine the nutty flavor of pistachios with tart cranberries for a unique fall treat. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in one bowl. In another, cream butter and sugar, adding eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, then fold in chopped pistachios and dried cranberries. Bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes. These cookies bring a colorful, flavorful twist to seasonal baking.
Chocolate and Caramel Indulgences
Fall cookies often mean indulging in rich flavors, with chocolate and caramel being standout favorites. These recipes promise to deliver decadent treats perfect for cozy autumn days.
31. Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
Salted caramel chocolate chip cookies combine sweet and salty flavors, creating a delightful treat. I use semi-sweet chocolate chips and homemade caramel sauce, sprinkled with sea salt before baking. These cookies have a gooey center and a satisfying crunch.
32. Double Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Double chocolate chunk cookies intensify the chocolate experience. With cocoa powder and large chocolate chunks, these cookies melt in your mouth. I prefer using dark chocolate chunks for a richer flavor, perfect for chocolate lovers.
33. Turtle Cookies
Turtle cookies offer a blend of chocolate, caramel, and pecans. I start with a chocolate cookie base, add a dollop of caramel in the center, and press a pecan on top. The combination creates a crunchy, chewy delight reminiscent of classic turtle candies.
34. Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread
Chocolate-dipped shortbread marries buttery shortbread with rich chocolate. After baking the shortbread cookies, I dip them halfway into melted dark or milk chocolate. These cookies are simple yet elegant, making them perfect for sharing during fall gatherings.
35. Caramel Stuffed Chocolate Cookies
Caramel stuffed chocolate cookies hide a gooey surprise inside. I make a chocolate cookie dough, wrap it around a piece of soft caramel candy, and bake until the cookies are set. The result is a deliciously rich cookie with a molten caramel center.
Fall Fruit and Vegetable Cookies
Fall brings a harvest of fruits and vegetables that can elevate your baking. Incorporating these ingredients adds unique flavors and textures to the cookies.
36. Cranberry Orange Cookies
These cookies burst with tart cranberries and zesty orange. Fresh cranberries add a pop of color while the zest infuses a citrusy brightness. To create these cookies, mix dried cranberries into the dough and add orange zest along with a splash of orange juice. These pair well with a hot cup of tea on a crisp fall day.
37. Sweet Potato Cookies
Sweet potato cookies offer a delightful twist on fall baking. The mashed sweet potatoes make the cookies moist and flavorful. Combine mashed sweet potatoes with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla. Nuts or chocolate chips make excellent add-ins. These cookies remind me of sweet potato pie in a bite-sized form.
38. Carrot Cake Cookies
Carrot cake cookies are perfect for those who love the classic dessert. Grated carrots provide natural sweetness and moisture, while walnuts and raisins add texture. Incorporate cream cheese frosting for a traditional carrot cake taste. These cookies are ideal for autumn celebrations and are often enjoyed as a healthier alternative to cake.
39. Fig and Walnut Cookies
Fig and walnut cookies combine chewy figs with crunchy walnuts. Dried figs offer a rich sweetness that balances the savory crunch of walnuts. To make these cookies, finely chop figs and walnuts, then fold them into a spiced dough with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. These cookies are a sophisticated treat for fall gatherings.
40. Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies
Zucchini chocolate chip cookies hide the vegetable in a deliciously sweet package. Grated zucchini adds moisture and keeps the cookies soft. Add grated zucchini to your traditional chocolate chip cookie recipe, and balance with a generous helping of chocolate chips. These cookies showcase how versatile zucchini can be in fall baking.
No-Bake Fall Cookies
No-bake fall cookies are perfect for those who want delicious treats without turning on the oven. These recipes combine autumn flavors with ease of preparation.
41. No-Bake Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
No-bake pumpkin oatmeal cookies offer the aroma of pumpkin spice without baking. To make these, mix rolled oats, canned pumpkin, peanut butter, honey, and pumpkin pie spice. Form dough into balls, then refrigerate until set.
42. Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Balls
Chocolate-covered peanut butter balls combine creamy peanut butter with a chocolate coating. Blend peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Shape into balls, dip in melted chocolate, then let them harden in the fridge.
43. No-Bake Maple Pecan Cookies
No-bake maple pecan cookies capture the essence of fall with rich maple syrup and crunchy pecans. Combine oats, pecan pieces, maple syrup, almond butter, and vanilla extract. Roll into balls and chill until firm.
44. Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls
Pumpkin spice energy balls provide a quick, flavorful snack fit for fall. Blend oats, canned pumpkin, dates, pumpkin pie spice, and chia seeds in a food processor. Form mixture into balls and refrigerate until solid.
Gluten-Free Fall Cookies
Gluten-free cookies don’t sacrifice flavor for dietary restrictions, and they’re perfect for everyone at your fall gatherings. These gluten-free fall cookie recipes combine seasonal flavors with the necessity for gluten-free ingredients.
45. Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cookies
These cookies capture the essence of autumn with pumpkin spice and a moist texture. Using gluten-free flour blends and pumpkin puree, each bite is sweet and satisfying. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to enhance the fall flavor. A mix of gluten-free flour, pumpkin puree, and warm spices create a delightful treat.
46. Almond Flour Snickerdoodles
Almond flour snickerdoodles have a chewy texture and a rich nutty flavor. Roll them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking for a classic finish. Almond flour’s texture pairs perfectly with the cinnamon-spiced coating, making these a must-have.
47. Gluten-Free Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
These cookies blend gluten-free oats with plump raisins and a hint of vanilla. The oats provide a hearty base, while the raisins add natural sweetness. A touch of cinnamon completes the cozy, autumnal taste. Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure the cookies cater to dietary needs.
48. Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies
Flourless peanut butter cookies are rich and flavorful with only a few ingredients. Mix peanut butter, brown sugar, an egg, and a pinch of salt for a simple yet delicious treat. These cookies are chewy, and their peanut butter aroma fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting scent.
Vegan Fall Cookies
For those who prefer vegan treats, these fall cookie recipes bring the best of autumn flavors while being entirely plant-based.
49. Vegan Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
My Vegan Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies combine the classic fall flavor of pumpkin with the indulgence of chocolate chips. The pumpkin puree provides a moist, chewy texture, while a mix of vegan chocolate chips and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg make each bite a comforting treat. They’re perfect for those crisp fall evenings when you need a sweet, cozy snack.
50. Vegan Maple Pecan Cookies
Vegan Maple Pecan Cookies offer a delightful combination of rich maple syrup and crunchy pecans. Using almond flour and coconut oil gives these cookies a light texture and helps keep them entirely plant-based. The addition of pure maple syrup brings a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the nutty pecans, making these cookies a hit for fall gatherings or a quiet moment with a cup of tea.
Tips for Perfect Fall Cookies
Creating fall cookies that capture seasonal flavors involves attention to detail. Below are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time.
Seasonal Ingredient Spotlight
Choosing the right seasonal ingredients elevates your fall cookies. Use pumpkin puree, apple cider, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to create rich, autumnal flavors. Fresh or dried fruits like cranberries and figs add unique textures, enhancing the overall sensory experience. When baking, opt for high-quality ingredients to achieve the best results.
Cookie Storage and Freezing Tips
Proper storage keeps your cookies fresh for longer. Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain softness and prevent staleness. For extended shelf life, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. Most cookies, such as Pumpkin Spice and Gingerbread Cookies, freeze well for up to three months, ensuring you have delicious treats ready at any time.
Decorating Ideas for Fall Cookies
Decorating adds a festive touch to fall cookies. Use icing in fall colors like orange, brown, and gold to draw patterns or leaves. Sprinkles shaped like pumpkins, leaves, and acorns make cookies visually appealing. For a rustic look, dust cookies with powdered sugar or cinnamon. Each decoration method enhances the cookies’ appearance, making them perfect for autumn celebrations.
These tips, coupled with the right recipes, ensure your fall cookies are not only delicious but also beautiful and well-preserved.
Conclusion
Fall is the perfect time to indulge in the delightful flavors of pumpkin, apple, maple, and spices. With these 50 cookie recipes, you can bring the warmth and coziness of autumn into your kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of traditional pumpkin spice or looking for something unique like sweet potato cookies, there’s something here for everyone.
Baking these cookies is more than just a culinary activity; it’s a way to celebrate the season’s essence. So, grab your apron and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of fall cookies. Happy baking!