Pumpkin Cookies with Lemon Zest: A Perfect Fall Treat

As the cooler months approach, nothing quite says “fall” like the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin. From pies to soups, pumpkin is the star ingredient in many cozy dishes. However, one of the most delightful ways to enjoy pumpkin during the fall season is in baked goods—particularly in pumpkin cookies. Soft, chewy, and full of flavor, pumpkin cookies are a comforting treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

In this recipe, we take the traditional pumpkin cookie and add a twist by infusing it with fresh lemon zest. The result is a beautifully balanced cookie that combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the bright, zesty flavor of lemon. This subtle citrus touch enhances the pumpkin flavor, creating a refreshing contrast that makes each bite even more enjoyable.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a fall gathering, or just because you’re craving something sweet, these pumpkin cookies with lemon zest are sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these delicious cookies from scratch.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin and Lemon

Before we get into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the health benefits of the two key ingredients: pumpkin and lemon. Not only do they make for a delicious combination, but they also offer several nutritional benefits.

Pumpkin:

Pumpkin is incredibly nutrient-dense, packed with vitamins and minerals that support overall health. It is an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for eye health and immune function. It also contains significant amounts of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making it a great addition to any diet. The fiber content in pumpkin helps promote healthy digestion and keeps you feeling fuller longer.

Lemons:

Lemons are loaded with vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports the immune system, promotes healthy skin, and aids in the absorption of iron. The zest of lemon contains essential oils that offer a burst of refreshing citrus flavor and even have mood-boosting properties. When added to the cookies, lemon zest enhances the pumpkin flavor while providing an extra dose of antioxidants.

Together, pumpkin and lemon make a deliciously healthy duo, giving you both sweet and savory flavors in one perfect package.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Cookies with Lemon Zest

To make these pumpkin cookies with lemon zest, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients create a soft and flavorful dough that’s perfect for a chewy, moist cookie. The blend of spices gives the cookies that signature fall flavor, while the pumpkin puree keeps them soft and tender. The lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness that elevates the flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pumpkin Cookies with Lemon Zest

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This ensures that your cookies don’t stick and bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. Set the dry ingredients aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or a hand whisk. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Egg, Pumpkin, Lemon Zest, and Vanilla

Once the butter and sugar are fully creamed, add the egg, canned pumpkin puree, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly during baking. You can gently flatten the dough with the back of the spoon if you prefer a more uniform shape.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. You can test the cookies by gently pressing them with your finger; if they spring back, they are done.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the cookies to set and firm up, making them easier to handle.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Lemon Zest

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature before starting. This will help the ingredients combine more easily and create a smoother dough.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep the cookies light and tender.
• Add More Lemon Zest: If you love a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to add a bit more lemon zest to the dough. The zest gives a burst of citrus that pairs beautifully with the warm spices in the cookies.
• Chill the Dough: If you find that the dough is too sticky to handle, chill it for about 30 minutes before shaping the cookies. This will make it easier to scoop and shape.

Creative Variations of Pumpkin Cookies with Lemon Zest

While this basic recipe is delicious, there are many ways to get creative with your pumpkin cookies:

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a richer treat, add 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips to the dough. The chocolate complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly.
• Incorporate Nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and crunch.
• Make It Vegan: Swap the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2 tablespoons water) and use a dairy-free butter substitute for a vegan version.
• Glaze the Cookies: After the cookies cool, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the top for a sweet finish.

When to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Lemon Zest

These pumpkin cookies with lemon zest are perfect for a variety of occasions:

• Fall Gatherings: Serve them at your next fall dinner party or gathering. Their warm, cozy flavors will be a hit.
• Holiday Treats: These cookies make a wonderful addition to your holiday cookie platter, offering a delightful twist on the usual flavors.
• Afternoon Snack: Enjoy a few with your afternoon tea or coffee for a comforting break in the middle of the day.
• Gifts: Package these cookies in a decorative tin and give them as a homemade gift for friends and family. The combination of pumpkin and lemon is a thoughtful and unique flavor that will be appreciated.

Conclusion: A Sweet and Zesty Fall Favorite

Pumpkin cookies with lemon zest are the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and citrusy flavors. The pumpkin gives the cookies a tender, moist texture, while the lemon zest adds a burst of refreshing brightness that elevates the whole flavor profile. With their comforting, warm spices and bright, zesty twist, these cookies are sure to become a favorite fall treat.

Try making these cookies today and enjoy the perfect balance of pumpkin and lemon in every bite! Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging in a homemade dessert, these pumpkin cookies with lemon zest will be a hit.