Fall’s crisp air and vibrant colors always inspire me to get baking, especially when it comes to cookies. There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling the house, blending perfectly with the season’s cozy vibes. From pumpkin spice to maple pecan, fall flavors bring a unique warmth and comfort.
In this article, I’ll share 50 of the best fall cookie recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for classic favorites or innovative twists, these recipes will have you reaching for your apron and mixing bowl. Let’s dive into the delicious world of fall cookies and make this season even sweeter.
Pumpkin Spice Cookies
Pumpkin spice cookies are fall favorites, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices.
1. Brown Butter Iced Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Brown butter enhances the nutty flavor of oatmeal cookies, perfectly blending with pumpkin. After baking, drizzle them with a simple icing.
2. Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies
Adding white chocolate chips gives these cookies a creamy sweetness that pairs well with pumpkin. It’s a delightful twist on a classic.
3. Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
Pumpkin adds moistness to these snickerdoodles, while a cinnamon-sugar coating provides a traditional flavor.
4. Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
These cookies are soft and cake-like. Top them with cream cheese frosting for extra richness.
5. Pumpkin Cookies with Cheesecake Frosting
A cheesecake frosting adds tanginess to the pumpkin cookies, creating a perfect balance.
6. Cheesecake Stuffed Snickerdoodle Pumpkin Cookies
These cookies have a cheesecake center surrounded by pumpkin snickerdoodle dough, offering a surprise in every bite.
7. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Pumpkin and chocolate chips together make these cookies moist and flavorful. The chocolate adds a decadent touch.
8. Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
S’mores ingredients—graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows—combine with pumpkin for a uniquely tasty cookie.
9. Pumpkin Sugar Cookies
Pumpkin purée adds flavor and moisture to traditional sugar cookies, making them a fall favorite.
10. Cheesecake Filled Pumpkin Cookies
These cookies have a creamy cheesecake filling surrounded by pumpkin-flavored dough, perfect for cheesecake lovers.
11. Pumpkin Caramel Cookies With Toffee
Caramel and toffee bits add a sweet and crunchy texture to these soft pumpkin cookies, creating a delightful mix.
12. Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cinnamon Buttercream
Pumpkin spice elevates sugar cookies, and a cinnamon buttercream frosting complements their flavors beautifully.
13. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies
These cookies combine pumpkin, chocolate chips, and oatmeal for added texture and flavor.
14. Chai Frosted Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Pumpkin oatmeal cookies topped with chai-flavored frosting offer a warm, spiced taste perfect for fall.
15. Maple Glazed Pumpkin Spice Cookies
Maple glaze enhances the pumpkin spice flavor, making these cookies a must-try for maple syrup fans.
16. Pumpkin-Filled Cheesecake Cookies
These cookies feature a pumpkin-spiced cheesecake filling, providing a smooth, creamy texture inside a cookie crust.
Apple-Inspired Cookies
Apple-inspired cookies bring the essence of fall into your kitchen. The blend of apple flavors and spices creates irresistible treats.
17. Apple Crisp Cookies
Apple Crisp Cookies are a delightful mix of buttery crumble and spiced apple filling. Thinly sliced apples and a cinnamon oat topping ensure a satisfying crunch in every bite.
18. Dutch Apple Pie Cookies
These cookies capture the essence of Dutch apple pie. A buttery cookie base holds a sweet apple filling with a crumbly streusel topping, evoking classic fall flavors.
19. Caramel Apple Cookies
Caramel Apple Cookies combine soft apple chunks and caramel bits. The result is a chewy cookie with sweet caramel and tart apple notes, perfect for any fall gathering.
20. Soft Apple Cookies
Soft Apple Cookies are moist and tender with a spiced apple flavor. Grated apples and a touch of cinnamon ensure these cookies melt in your mouth.
21. Apple Butter Snickerdoodles
Apple Butter Snickerdoodles offer a twist on the classic snickerdoodle. Adding apple butter to the dough infuses a rich, fruity flavor while maintaining the signature cinnamon sugar coating.
22. Easy Apple Oatmeal Cookies
Easy Apple Oatmeal Cookies blend hearty oats and apple pieces. These chewy cookies also include cinnamon and nutmeg, making them a wholesome treat for fall.
23. Apple Cider Shortbread Cookies
Apple Cider Shortbread Cookies feature the distinct taste of apple cider. Shortbread dough mixed with apple cider reduction results in buttery cookies with a hint of tartness.
Maple and Brown Sugar Favorites
Maple and brown sugar add an irresistible depth of flavor to fall cookies. Here are some delicious recipes to try.
24. Maple Cookies
Maple Cookies offer the perfect balance of sweetness. Made with pure maple syrup, these cookies have a rich, caramel-like taste. Add chopped pecans for extra crunch.
25. Maple Snickerdoodles
Maple Snickerdoodles combine classic snickerdoodle elements with a maple twist. Cinnamon-sugar coating pairs beautifully with maple-flavored dough. Perfect for a fall treat!
26. Maple Leaf Cookies
Maple Leaf Cookies not only taste amazing but also look festive. Shaped like maple leaves and iced with maple glaze, these cookies are a fall favorite. Use a leaf-shaped cutter for an authentic look.
27. Cinnamon Brown Sugar Cookies with Salted Buttercream
Cinnamon Brown Sugar Cookies with Salted Buttercream deliver a burst of flavors. The sweet and spicy cookie base pairs perfectly with the rich, salted buttercream frosting. Ideal for any autumn gathering.
28. 3 Ingredient Brown Sugar Cookies
3 Ingredient Brown Sugar Cookies are simple yet flavorful. Made with just brown sugar, butter, and flour, these cookies are easy to prepare. Their chewy texture and rich taste make them a hit.
Spiced Cookie Classics
Fall spices bring warmth and nostalgia to cookies, making them perfect for this time of year. Here’s a selection of spiced cookie classics that evoke the best of fall flavors.
29. Ginger Molasses Cookies
Ginger Molasses Cookies combine the rich, deep flavors of molasses with the spicy kick of ginger. Their chewy texture and robust taste make them a fall favorite. I use ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves for a true autumnal flavor profile. Molasses keeps the cookies moist and gives them a unique depth.
30. Gingersnaps
Gingersnaps are known for their crispy texture and bold spice. Incorporating ground ginger, cinnamon, and molasses results in a cookie with a satisfying snap. They pair perfectly with tea or coffee. For an extra touch, I sprinkle sugar on top before baking.
31. Cinnamon Bun Cookies
Cinnamon Bun Cookies replicate the flavors of a classic cinnamon bun in cookie form. This treat features a soft dough infused with cinnamon and topped with a sweet glaze. I roll the dough with a cinnamon-sugar mixture to achieve the iconic swirl.
32. Cinnamon Walnut Cookies
Cinnamon Walnut Cookies combine the earthiness of walnuts with the warm spice of cinnamon. These cookies have a crunchy texture from the walnuts and a fragrant spice from the cinnamon. I chop the walnuts finely to ensure even distribution throughout the dough.
33. Cinnamon Bread Cookies
Cinnamon Bread Cookies capture the essence of cinnamon bread in a convenient cookie. Their texture is soft and loaded with cinnamon flavor. I add a touch of nutmeg and allspice for added depth. These cookies are perfect for an afternoon snack or a holiday gathering.
Nutty Fall Cookies
Nutty Fall Cookies combine rich, toasted nuts with seasonal spices, offering a warm and hearty flavor profile. Their textures and tastes make them perfect for fall.
34. Brown Butter Pecan Spice Cookies
Brown Butter Pecan Spice Cookies feature the deep, nutty flavor of brown butter combined with crunchy pecans and warming spices. Toasting the pecans first enhances their flavor while the brown butter adds a rich, caramel-like undertone. To make these cookies, mix brown butter with sugar, flour, and a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Fold in the toasted pecans before baking. Their crisp edges and chewy centers create a delightful contrast.
35. Crunchy Chocolate Chip & Hazelnut Cookies
Crunchy Chocolate Chip & Hazelnut Cookies blend the classic comfort of chocolate chip cookies with the distinct taste of hazelnuts. Roast the hazelnuts to bring out their full flavor and add a slightly buttery texture. Combine flour, sugar, butter, and vanilla extract, then mix in chocolate chips and chopped hazelnuts. The result is a satisfying, crunchy cookie with bursts of chocolate and nutty goodness in every bite. These cookies are perfect for those who love a mix of textures and flavors.
Chocolate and Caramel Indulgences
Chocolate and caramel cookies offer a delightful mix of rich flavors that are perfect for fall. I’ve selected a few standout recipes that combine these ingredients for a truly indulgent experience.
36. Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies
Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cookies blend warm cinnamon with rich chocolate. These cookies have a chewy texture thanks to the brown sugar and are perfect for enjoying with a glass of milk. They’re ideal for a cozy fall afternoon.
37. Hot Chocolate Cookies
Hot Chocolate Cookies capture the essence of hot cocoa in cookie form. They feature a decadent chocolate base with gooey marshmallows and a touch of vanilla. Baking these will make your kitchen smell like a hot chocolate stand.
38. Salted Caramel Heart Center Snickerdoodles
Salted Caramel Heart Center Snickerdoodles put a delicious twist on the traditional snickerdoodle. A gooey salted caramel center adds contrast to the soft, cinnamon-sugar-coated cookie. These are perfect for those who love a mix of sweet and salty.
39. Brownie Cookies
Brownie Cookies combine the best of both worlds: cookies and brownies. With crackly edges and a fudgy center, these cookies are intensely chocolatey. Pair them with ice cream for an extra treat.
40. Butterscotch Chip Cookies
Butterscotch Chip Cookies feature the rich, buttery flavor of butterscotch chips paired with a soft, chewy cookie base. The butterscotch adds a sweet, caramel-like taste, making these cookies a fall favorite.
Fall Fruit and Vegetable Cookies
Fall offers a bounty of fruits and vegetables that create unique and delicious cookies. Combining these ingredients amplifies the flavors of the season and provides a tasty twist to traditional cookies.
41. Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies
Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies blend hearty oats with tart cranberries. The cookies provide a chewy texture with bursts of tanginess. Ingredients include old-fashioned oats, dried cranberries, and a touch of cinnamon. These cookies celebrate fall’s harvest with every bite, making a perfect snack for chilly days. Adding white chocolate chips can offer a delicious contrast to the tart cranberries.
No-Bake Fall Cookies
No-bake cookies offer a convenient way to enjoy fall flavors without using the oven. Perfect for those busy days or when you don’t want to heat up the house.
42. Acorn No Bake Cookies
Acorn No Bake Cookies capture the essence of fall with minimal effort. Combine chocolate sandwich cookies, peanut butter, and melted chocolate to form acorn shapes. Use pretzel sticks for stems and sprinkle with crushed nuts for a finishing touch.
Ingredients:
- Chocolate sandwich cookies
- Peanut butter
- Melted chocolate
- Pretzel sticks
- Crushed nuts
- Crush chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs.
- Mix crumbs with peanut butter until fully combined.
- Shape mixture into small, acorn-sized ovals.
- Dip the tops in melted chocolate and immediately add a pretzel stick for the stem.
- Roll in crushed nuts and place on a parchment-lined tray to set.
Include Acorn No Bake Cookies into your fall baking repertoire. These treats require no baking and highlight the season’s festive spirit.
Gluten-Free Fall Cookies
Gluten-free fall cookies bring seasonal flavors to those with gluten sensitivities. Below are two delectable recipes tailored for a gluten-free diet.
43. Amaretti Cookies
Amaretti Cookies use almond flour, making them naturally gluten-free. A blend of almonds, sugar, egg whites, and a touch of almond extract yields a chewy, flavorful treat. Perfect for fall gatherings, these cookies pair well with a cup of coffee or tea.
44. Lace Cookies With Pumpkin Spice
Lace Cookies With Pumpkin Spice offer crispy, delicate textures infused with autumn spices. With ingredients like gluten-free oats, pumpkin puree, and a hint of cinnamon, these cookies provide warmth and flavor. Drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgence, making them an ideal fall dessert.
Unique Fall Cookie Recipes
For those looking to try something different, these unique fall cookie recipes offer exciting flavors and ingredients that set them apart. Enjoy these interesting twists on classic fall cookies.
45. Fall Sour Cream Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
These Fall Sour Cream Sugar Cookies combine the soft, tender texture of sour cream sugar cookies with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. The sour cream keeps the cookies moist. Add a hint of vanilla and cinnamon for a true fall essence. The cream cheese frosting gives a balancing sweetness and a creamy finish.
46. Pumpkin Pie Sandwich Cookie
Pumpkin Pie Sandwich Cookies encapsulate the flavor of pumpkin pie in cookie form. These cookies feature a spiced pumpkin filling sandwiched between two soft vanilla cookies. The filling includes canned pumpkin, cream cheese, and a blend of pumpkin pie spices. These sandwich cookies make a delightful handheld version of a seasonal favorite.
47. Honey Cookies
Honey Cookies provide a natural sweetness and a unique texture. These cookies use honey as the primary sweetener instead of sugar. Additions like cinnamon and nutmeg complement the honey’s floral notes. The result is a soft and chewy cookie with a golden-brown exterior.
48. Cannoli Cookies
Cannoli Cookies bring a taste of Italian dessert to fall cookie baking. These cookies are inspired by traditional cannoli, featuring a blend of ricotta cheese, chocolate chips, and a hint of citrus. The cookies have a tender texture with the distinct flavors of cannoli filling, making them a sophisticated choice for fall gatherings.
49. Honey Spelt Cookies
Honey Spelt Cookies offer a wholesome and earthy flavor profile. Using spelt flour gives these cookies a slightly nutty taste and adds whole grain goodness. Honey provides natural sweetness, while spices like cinnamon and cloves enhance the fall flavors. These cookies are a healthier option without compromising on taste.
50. Pantry Cookies
Pantry Cookies are perfect for those who enjoy spontaneous baking. These cookies utilize common pantry ingredients like oats, nuts, chocolate chips, and dried fruits. Customize them with whatever ingredients are on hand. The combination possibilities are endless, making each batch a unique creation that adapts to the season’s flavors.
Additional Fall Cookie Ideas
Here are even more fall cookie recipes that bring out the flavors of the season for readers to enjoy. Each recipe incorporates unique ingredients to make your fall baking experience special.
51. Pecan Sandies
Pecan Sandies combine a buttery shortbread base with crunchy pecans. The dough includes finely chopped pecans and a hint of vanilla to enhance the nutty flavor. Dust the finished cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
52. Cranberry Orange Cookies
Cranberry Orange Cookies mix tart dried cranberries with bright, zesty orange. The dough combines fresh orange zest and juice with dried cranberries for a refreshing fall treat. Add white chocolate chips for additional richness.
53. Sweet Potato Cookies
Sweet Potato Cookies utilize mashed sweet potatoes to create a soft, moist texture. Combine mashed sweet potatoes with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Add chopped pecans for a delightful crunch.
54. Chai Spice Cookies
Chai Spice Cookies capture the essence of chai tea in a cookie. Blend spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves into the dough. A sprinkle of coarse sugar before baking adds a sweet, crunchy finish.
55. Maple Pecan Shortbread
Maple Pecan Shortbread includes pure maple syrup and toasted pecans. Start with a classic shortbread dough, blend in maple syrup, and fold in chopped pecans. These cookies pair well with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
56. Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cookies
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cookies combine pumpkin with a luscious cream cheese center. The dough includes pumpkin puree and fall spices, while the filling features sweetened cream cheese. Bake until the edges are slightly crisp.
57. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies incorporate diced apples and rolled oats. The dough mixes apples, oats, and cinnamon for a chewy, flavorful cookie. A brown sugar glaze adds a sweet, caramel-like finish.
58. Spiced Molasses Cookies
Spiced Molasses Cookies offer a rich, robust flavor. The dough includes dark molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Bake until the edges are crisp, leaving the centers soft and chewy.
59. Butternut Squash Cookies
Butternut Squash Cookies make use of roasted and pureed butternut squash. The dough combines the puree with cinnamon and allspice. These cookies have a soft texture and subtle sweetness.
60. Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Cinnamon Roll Cookies mimic the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll. The dough is rolled with a cinnamon-sugar filling and sliced into rounds. Drizzle a simple icing on top after baking for a complete look.
61. Maple Walnut Cookies
Maple Walnut Cookies feature rich maple syrup and crunchy walnuts. The dough includes maple syrup and chopped walnuts, providing a warm, buttery taste. A light brush of maple glaze enhances the sweetness.
62. Pear and Ginger Cookies
Pear and Ginger Cookies blend sweet pear with spicy ginger. The dough incorporates finely chopped pears and ground ginger. A drizzle of honey over the baked cookies adds a touch of natural sweetness.
63. Cranberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies
Cranberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies mix tart cranberries with creamy white chocolate chips. The dough combines dried cranberries and white chocolate chips for a cookie that’s both tart and sweet.
64. Spiced Persimmon Cookies
Spiced Persimmon Cookies utilize ripe persimmons and warm spices. The dough includes persimmon puree with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These soft cookies boast a vibrant, seasonal flavor.
65. Maple Pecan Icebox Cookies
Maple Pecan Icebox Cookies offer convenience and flavor. The dough, mixed with maple syrup and chopped pecans, can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Slice and bake cookies as needed, enjoying the fresh, nutty taste.
Tips for Perfect Fall Cookies
Creating the perfect fall cookies requires attention to detail and some insider tips. Below are some essential pointers to elevate your fall cookie baking game.
Seasonal Ingredient Spotlight
Incorporate the best seasonal ingredients to add authentic fall flavors to your cookies. Use pumpkin purée for its rich, creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Add freshly grated nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger to spice up your treats. Include local, fresh apples, either finely diced or as applesauce, to enhance the moisture content and impart a sweet-tart flavor. Use pure maple syrup to add depth and complexity to the dough. Opt for fresh cranberries for a burst of tanginess.
Cookie Storage and Freezing Tips
Store your cookies properly to maintain freshness. Place cooled cookies in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between each layer. Keep them at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Label and date the container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw the cookies at room temperature before serving.
Decorating Ideas for Fall Cookies
Get creative with your fall cookie decorations. Use royal icing in autumn hues like orange, red, and brown to draw leaves or seasonal designs. Sprinkle cookies with cinnamon sugar for added texture and flavor. Add toasted nuts, such as pecans or hazelnuts, for a nutty crunch. Use caramel drizzle to create intricate patterns or add a gooey touch to the cookie tops. For a festive look, decorate cookies with edible gold or silver dust. Experiment with cookie cutters in fall shapes like pumpkins, leaves, or acorns for a thematic presentation.
Conclusion
Baking fall cookies is more than just a culinary activity; it’s a way to embrace the season’s warmth and flavors. From pumpkin spice to apple-infused treats and maple delights, there’s a recipe for every taste and occasion. These cookies not only fill your home with comforting aromas but also bring joy to those you share them with. So grab your apron and get ready to create delicious memories this fall. Happy baking!