If you love cozy autumn flavors but want a quick and easy treat, this Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine a rich blend of pumpkin puree, warm pumpkin pie spice, and chocolatey goodness all wrapped up in chewy oats without ever turning on the oven. These cookies come together super fast, making them perfect for when you crave something sweet and seasonal but don’t want to fuss with lengthy baking. Trust me, once you try this Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies Recipe, it’ll become your go-to when pumpkin cravings strike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies Recipe lies in the simplicity and harmony of its ingredients. Each one brings something special—whether it’s the creamy texture from butter, the natural sweetness of brown sugar, the distinct pumpkin flavor, or the comforting spice blend that makes the whole thing feel like fall in every bite.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Provides rich creaminess and helps the cookies hold together perfectly.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture to blend the dry and wet ingredients seamlessly.
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar: Balances flavor with sweetness and texture.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a deep caramel-like richness and moisture.
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree: Brings that signature autumn flavor and a lovely moist texture.
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder: Gives a subtle chocolate backdrop that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its warm, sweet aroma.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: Packs that quintessential fall spice mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and heightens all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter: Contributes creaminess and a slight nutty flavor that complements pumpkin beautifully.
- 3 cups quick oats: The heart of the cookie, offering chewy texture and wholesome goodness.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by melting your unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. This step is the base layer for your cookies’ creamy and rich texture, and it ensures all other ingredients can blend together smoothly.
Step 2: Combine Sugars, Milk, Pumpkin & Cocoa
Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, pumpkin puree, and cocoa powder directly into the saucepan with the melted butter. Stir everything until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. You’ll notice a lovely deep color developing here—a perfect hint at the flavors to come.
Step 3: Bring to a Rolling Boil
Now it’s time to increase the heat and bring your mixture to a rolling boil. This means bubbles need to be constantly breaking the surface and the mixture thickening. Let it boil for exactly 2 minutes while stirring constantly; this critical timing helps the cookies set properly later on.
Step 4: Stir in Flavor Enhancers
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and the smooth peanut butter. These ingredients elevate the cookies, infusing them with warm spice notes, sweet vanilla, and a touch of nuttiness that perfectly complements pumpkin.
Step 5: Mix in the Oats
Add your quick oats into the saucepan and fold them gently but thoroughly into the chocolate-pumpkin mixture. The oats absorb the flavors and provide the chewy, hearty texture pumpkin spice cookies are loved for.
Step 6: Drop and Shape on Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things mess-free and drop spoonfuls of the cookie mixture onto it. You can shape these cookies however you like—round, rustic mounds, or slightly flattened discs work beautifully. Keep them spaced apart as they set.
Step 7: Let the Cookies Set
Be patient and let the cookies cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This firming up process is what transforms the gooey mixture into perfect pumpkin-spice-flavored no bake cookies.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies are delightful on their own but you can add a simple garnish to make them extra special. A light dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice, or even a drizzle of melted white chocolate can make these treats look beautiful and add a little extra burst of flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve these Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies Recipe alongside a warm cup of coffee, spiced chai, or creamy hot chocolate for an irresistible cozy snack. For a brunch twist, pair them with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress friends or family? Arrange the cookies in a layered jar or on a rustic wooden platter with some autumn leaves and cinnamon sticks for a seasonal touch. Wrapping a few in parchment and tying with twine makes for a charming homemade gift too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your pumpkin spice no bake cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and chewy for up to 3 days, making them an easy treat to grab whenever the pumpkin craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies longer, you can freeze them. Lay the cookies flat on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for up to 2 months and thaw quickly at room temperature when you’re ready.
Reheating
No reheating needed with these cookies, but if you like them a bit softer, pop a couple in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. It’s like a freshly made, gooey little pumpkin treat all over again.
FAQs
Can I substitute peanut butter with another nut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter will work well, though they might subtly change the flavor profile. Choose one that complements pumpkin nicely for the best results.
What type of oats should I use?
Quick oats are best for this recipe because they absorb the liquid well and help the cookies set properly without needing baking. Rolled oats can also be used but might result in a chewier texture.
Is it possible to make these cookies vegan?
Yes! Swap the butter for a vegan margarine or coconut oil, use a plant-based milk, and ensure your brown sugar is vegan-friendly. The cookies will still have that wonderful pumpkin spice flavor and chewy texture.
Why do the cookies need to boil for exactly 2 minutes?
The 2-minute boil allows the mixture to reach the right consistency and temperature so the cookies set up properly when cooled. Boiling less or more time can affect the texture and how well they hold together.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or mini chocolate chips make delicious additions to customize your cookies and add crunch or extra bursts of flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fall treat that’s quick, delicious, and full of pumpkin spice goodness, this Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies Recipe is honestly a must-try. They capture all the warm flavors of autumn without any oven time, making them perfect for busy days or when you just want an easy homemade snack. I can’t wait for you to make these and enjoy every cozy bite!
Print
Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 5m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies combine the warm flavors of pumpkin and traditional pumpkin pie spice with rich cocoa and creamy peanut butter, all without turning on the oven. Perfect for a quick and delicious fall-inspired treat, these cookies are easy to prepare and require just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups quick oats
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until fully liquified, preparing the base for your cookie mixture.
- Combine Sugars and Pumpkin: Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, pumpkin puree, and cocoa powder to the melted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Boil Mixture: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Maintain the boil for 2 minutes while stirring constantly to ensure the sugars dissolve completely and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add Flavorings and Peanut Butter: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and peanut butter. Mix thoroughly until the peanut butter is melted and the flavors are evenly distributed.
- Incorporate Oats: Add the quick oats to the saucepan and stir well until each oat is fully coated with the chocolate-pumpkin mixture, forming the cookie batter.
- Shape Cookies: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drop spoonfuls of the cookie mixture onto the sheet, shaping them to your preferred size and spacing them to prevent sticking.
- Set and Cool: Allow the cookies to cool and set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes so they firm up and are ready to serve.
Notes
- For best results, use quick oats as they absorb the mixture better and help the cookies set firmly.
- You can adjust the pumpkin pie spice to taste if you prefer a stronger or lighter spice flavor.
- If the mixture hardens before shaping the cookies, gently reheat it to soften.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
