Fall is the perfect time to enjoy festive desserts that capture the season’s essence. These Fall Pumpkin and Maple Leaf Sugar Cookies, with their vibrant fall colors, are perfect for any autumn gathering. The cookies bring together the warmth of fall spices and the creativity of decorative icing. Shaped like pumpkins and maple leaves, they’re not only fun to make but also add an aesthetic touch to any fall-themed table. These cookies have become a family favorite during the fall months, combining creativity and taste. Whether for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or a cozy weekend, these cookies will bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Festive autumn-themed sugar cookies shaped like colorful fall leaves and birds, with vibrant red, orange, yellow, and brown icing, arranged on a plate for a cozy seasonal dessert
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Prep Time Cook time Additional Time Total Time
25 mins
12 mins
1 hr (for chilling dough and decorating)
1 hr 37 mins
Servings
20 cookies

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • Pinch of salt

For the Icing:

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
  • Gel food coloring (orange, red, yellow, green)

Steps to Make Fall Pumpkin and Maple Leaf Sugar Cookies

    • Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract, mix until well combined.
    • Mix the dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients.
    • Chill the dough: Roll the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
    • Shape and bake: Roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface. Use pumpkin and maple leaf cookie cutters to cut shapes. Place on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
    • Decorate: Mix powdered sugar with milk to create the icing. Divide into bowls and add food coloring to match fall colors. Once cookies have cooled, decorate with icing.
Festive fall cookies in shapes of autumn leaves and pumpkins, decorated with vibrant red, yellow, green, and orange icing, perfect for celebrating the autumn season

Why You'll Love This Fall Pumpkin and Maple Leaf Sugar Cookies

  • Festive and Fun: Perfect for fall gatherings, these cookies capture the season’s spirit with fun shapes and colors.
  • Easy to Customize: You can add your own creative twist by using different icing designs.
  • Perfect for All Ages: A fun activity to enjoy with kids or friends during fall festivities.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Butter: Substitute with margarine if you prefer a dairy-free version.
  • All-purpose flour: Can be replaced with a gluten-free flour blend.

Expert Tips for Success

  • For crispier cookies, roll the dough thinner.
  • Allow icing to set completely before stacking or serving.

Variations and Customizations

  • Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the dough for a seasonal flavor.
  • Experiment with different colors and patterns for the icing

Storage Instructions

  • Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
  • The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve alongside a warm pumpkin spice latte or a hot cup of apple cider for a perfect fall treat.

Nutritional Facts (Per SERVING)

  • Calories: 150
    Protein: 2g
    Carbohydrates: 25g
    Fat: 5g
    Sodium: 50mg
    Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I freeze the cookie dough?
    Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking.

These Fall Pumpkin and Maple Leaf Sugar Cookies are a festive and creative way to celebrate the season. Their delightful shapes and sweet flavors make them perfect for any fall gathering. Try this recipe, and let us know how your family enjoys them!

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