Last Halloween, I found myself in a delightful baking frenzy as the scent of brown butter wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to autumn’s cozy embrace. This year, I’m excited to share my recipe for Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies, a chewy fall treat that perfectly blends the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices with a playful twist. They’re not only easy to decorate with whimsical ghost designs but also a breeze to whip up without any chilling time—ideal for surprising guests at your Halloween gatherings! Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a festive snack, these cookies are bound to bring smiles and satisfy sweet cravings. Curious about how to make these spooky delights come to life? Let’s dive into the magic of these fall favorites!
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Make?
Unforgettable Flavor: The nutty aroma of brown butter blends seamlessly with the rich pumpkin puree, crafting a cookie experience that’s both indulgent and delicious.
Easy to Decorate: With simple ghost designs, these cookies offer a fun and creative outlet for bakers of all ages.
Chewy Deliciousness: Enjoy a soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth, perfect for satisfying autumn cravings.
Time-Saving Treat: No need for chilling! You can have these warm cookies ready in just under 30 minutes.
Festive Fun: These spooky delights are not just a treat—they’re a conversation starter for your Halloween festivities, guaranteed to impress your guests! Don’t forget to check out my Soft Chewy Simply cookie recipe for even more flavor inspiration!
Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Brown Butter – Adds a nutty, toasty flavor; make sure it’s perfectly browned for the best taste.
• Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor; you can substitute it with sweet potato puree if desired.
• Maple Syrup – Sweetens the cookies with a warm flavor; honey or agave syrup work well as alternatives.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; whole wheat flour can be used for a heartier texture.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Essential for making the cookies rise; check freshness to ensure proper lift.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – A blend of warm spices that gives the cookies that cozy fall flavor; individual spices can be used if needed.
For the Ghost Decoration
• White Chocolate – Perfect for creating cute ghost designs on the cookies, adding both sweetness and charm.
• Black Candy Melts – Ideal for adding contrast and detail to your ghost decorations; regular chocolate can serve as a substitute.
Get ready to whip up these delightful Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies, a treat that’s as playful as it is delicious!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies
Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a saucepan over medium heat, add unsalted butter and let it melt completely. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter foams and turns a lovely golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Watch closely as it develops a nutty aroma and takes on a deep amber color; then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter and pumpkin puree. Stir in the maple syrup until fully blended and smooth, creating a rich, vibrant mixture. This flavorful base will be the heart of your Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies, enhancing their taste and moistness.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and baking powder. Ensure no lumps remain, as this mixture provides the structure and rise for your cookies. The warm spices will infuse the cookies with an inviting fall fragrance that will have everyone eager for a bite.
Step 4: Mix Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies chewy and tender. The dough may be a bit sticky, but this will lead to deliciously soft cookies once baked.
Step 5: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, form balls of dough and place them on light-colored baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Ensure there’s enough space between each for spreading while baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Step 6: Cool and Decorate
Once baked, carefully transfer your cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to avoid melting the white chocolate decorations. While the cookies are cooling, melt the white chocolate in a piping bag or bowl to prepare for creating adorable ghost designs on your Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies.
What to Serve with Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies?
These festive cookies are perfect for creating a delightful seasonal spread that captures the essence of autumn and Halloween.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The warmth of spiced apple cider beautifully complements the pumpkin flavors, offering a cozy, comforting drink option.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the soft, chewy texture of the cookies, creating a luscious dessert experience.
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Nutty Browned Butter Pecan Cake: This cake mirrors the rich, nutty notes of the cookies, making it a decadent centerpiece for your fall dessert table.
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Caramel Dipped Apples: The crunchy, tart apples drizzled with caramel offer a playful twist, balancing out the sweetness of the cookies with fresh fruit.
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Roasted Vegetable Medley: Serve alongside a warm roasted vegetable medley that brings seasonal flavors together, creating harmony between savory and sweet.
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Festive Cheese Board: A cheese board filled with creamy cheeses, dried fruits, and nuts will delight guests and provide a perfect savory contrast to the cookies.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: This cozy drink echoes the delightful flavor of pumpkin pie spice and rounds out your autumn-themed gathering, perfect for sipping alongside the cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the festive flavors without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their chewy texture, make sure to form the dough into balls before refrigerating. You can also bake the cookies in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When ready to decorate, just melt the white chocolate and pipe adorable ghost designs on top—this ensures that your cookies remain just as delicious and eye-catching, saving you time and effort for your Halloween celebrations!
How to Store and Freeze Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their chewy texture while keeping them fresh.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, these cookies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. Just make sure they’re in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze unbaked or baked cookies in a single layer. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag; they’ll stay good for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen cookies in the fridge overnight or at room temperature. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—perfectly gooey and delicious!
Expert Tips for Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies
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Perfect Brown Butter: Always watch the butter closely while browning to prevent burning; a light golden color yields a rich flavor in your cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the cookie dough until just combined to maintain that delightful chewiness in your Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies; overmixing can make them tough.
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Cool Before Decorating: Let your cookies cool completely on a wire rack to avoid melting the white chocolate, ensuring your ghost decorations stay adorable and intact.
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Use Light Baking Sheets: Opt for light-colored baking sheets to help prevent over-browning on the bottom of your cookies while they bake, ensuring a perfect texture.
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Experiment with White Chocolate: Get creative with your ghost designs by using colored candy melts; they will add a fun twist to your Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies!
Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these adaptations that will take your spooky treats to a whole new level!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or vegan butter to replace brown butter, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive cookies. This swap offers a delightful tropical twist.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a deliciously chewy treat that everyone can indulge in. You might even discover a new favorite!
- Pumpkin Spice Overload: Add an extra teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for an intensified autumn flavor that enhances the cozy essence of each bite. Embrace that fall spirit!
- Nuts & Seeds: Mix in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pepitas for a delightful texture that’ll make your cookies even more satisfying and appealing. The crunch is a perfect contrast to the softness!
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Incorporate ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to your dough for added sweetness and depth. It’s the perfect way to satisfy chocolate lovers at your Halloween party!
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle a maple glaze on top for an irresistible sweetness that elevates the spooky ghost designs—the perfect touch for true maple enthusiasts.
- Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Before baking, sprinkle a blend of cinnamon and sugar on top of your cookie balls for a sweet, warm touch that enhances both flavor and presentation. It’s a deliciously charming addition!
- Colorful Candy Melts: Experiment with colored candy melts for your ghost designs to match different themes or holidays. This playful touch makes each cookie uniquely fun and festive!
For more festive recipes, don’t forget to check out my Soft Chewy Simply cookies for delightful inspiration this season!
Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for a brand that lists 100% pumpkin as the only ingredient. Avoid products that contain added sugars or flavors. A rich, vibrant color indicates freshness; it should be smooth and free of dark spots.
How should I store my Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. This keeps them chewy and fresh. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to 10 days. Just ensure they’re sealed well so they don’t dry out.
Can I freeze Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies?
Yes, indeed! For longer storage, freeze your cookies by first arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and transfer them into a zip-top bag. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature!
What if my pumpkin cookies turn out too dry?
If you find your cookies are dry, it might be due to overmixing the dough or baking them too long. To maintain a wonderful chewy texture, mix until just combined and set a timer to check for doneness at 10 minutes. If you notice they’re still soft in the center and the edges are lightly set, you’ll achieve the perfect cookie!
Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
As they contain common allergens like dairy and gluten, be cautious if you are baking for someone with allergies. You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use dairy-free chocolate for the decorations. Always check labels for potential cross-contamination, especially for chocolate and other processed ingredients.
Can I add nuts to the batter?
Absolutely! If you want to add some crunch, consider folding in chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough after combining the wet and dry ingredients. This adds not only texture but also a delightful flavor contrast to your chewy cookies. Enjoy your festive baking!
Spooky Ghost Pumpkin Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan over medium heat, add unsalted butter and let it melt completely. Cook until the butter foams, turns golden brown, and develops a nutty aroma; remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Combine the cooled brown butter and pumpkin puree in a large bowl. Stir in the maple syrup until fully blended and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and baking powder until no lumps remain.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Form balls of dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon and place on lined baking sheets. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Melt white chocolate for ghost designs and decorate the cookies once cooled.
