Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies

Easy Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies are the BEST pumpkin cookie recipe stuffed with chocolate caramel candy! These cookies are perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat. The gooey caramel center and delightful spices make these cookies irresistible and memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and caramel creates a unique taste that is both comforting and indulgent.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an everyday snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy the satisfying chewiness of each cookie as you bite into the hidden caramel surprise.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for an extra twist!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper or wax paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chilling space in your refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes mixing the dough effortless while ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
• Cookie sheets: Provides a sturdy surface for baking cookies evenly without burning them on the bottom.
• Parchment paper or wax paper: Prevents cookies from sticking, making cleanup easy and ensuring perfect cookie shapes.

Ingredients

Easy Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies are the BEST pumpkin cookie recipe stuffed with chocolate caramel candy! Gooey cookies that are the best for fall!

For the Dough

• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter
• ⅓ cup (81g) pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup (150g) packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 ¾ cups (217g) all-purpose flour

For the Filling

• About 20 caramel candies (Werthers chewy or soft, Kraft, Rolos, or Dove)

For Rolling

• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Mix the Base Ingredients

Place butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. You can also use a hand mixer. Mix until combined.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

Continue mixing and add the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Then add baking soda, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, and allspice. Mix until everything is well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Slowly mix in flour until a smooth dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough Balls

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto a cookie sheet covered with wax or parchment paper. They don’t need to be far apart; this is just for chilling. Chill for 30 minutes until they are easy to touch but still soft enough to roll.

Step 5: Prepare Caramel Filling

Sandwich one caramel candy between two balls of dough and roll into a large ball.

Step 6: Roll in Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, stir together ¼ cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon. Roll each cookie dough ball in this mixture before placing them back on the cookie sheet. Chill at least one more hour.

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread cookies onto two lined cookie sheets and bake for 12-15 minutes until tops are no longer shiny and bottoms start to turn brown. Let cool completely before removing.

Step 8: Store Your Treats

Store your delicious cookies in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze them for up to one month. Enjoy these delightful Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies any time you crave something sweet!

How to Serve Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies

These Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile in how you can enjoy them. Here are some fun serving suggestions that elevate their flavor and presentation.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic combination that enhances the sweet flavors of the caramel and pumpkin.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delightful dessert experience that combines textures and temperatures.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust your cookies with powdered sugar for a beautiful, snowy effect that adds a touch of elegance to your dessert table.

Alongside Hot Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your cookies with a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea. The warmth of the drink complements the spices in the cookies perfectly.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Create a dessert platter by arranging these cookies alongside other treats like brownies, mini cheesecakes, or fruit tarts for a variety of flavors and textures.

How to Perfect Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies

Achieving perfect Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies come out delicious every time.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps maintain the shape during baking and keeps your cookies from spreading too much.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices provide more vibrant flavors than pre-ground ones, enhancing the overall taste of your cookies.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be soft in the center and just turning golden on the edges to ensure they stay chewy.

• Roll Evenly: Ensure each cookie dough ball is rolled evenly for uniform baking. This helps all cookies cook at the same rate.

Best Side Dishes for Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies

Enjoying these Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies can be made even better with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink that pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors; serve it hot for an autumn-inspired treat.

2. Cheese Plate: Include mild cheeses such as brie or gouda, which balance the sweetness of the cookies.

3. Roasted Nuts: Serve mixed nuts seasoned with cinnamon and sugar for a crunchy contrast to soft cookies.

4. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad brings brightness and acidity that cuts through the sweetness.

5. Pumpkin Soup: A small bowl of creamy pumpkin soup provides a savory counterpart to sweet desserts.

6. Chocolate Fondue: Offer melted chocolate for dipping slices of fruit or leftover cookie pieces, adding an interactive element to dessert time.

7. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and seasonal fruits for a wholesome side that complements the flavors of pumpkin spice.

8. Homemade Granola Bars: These can be cut into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking alongside your delicious cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling helps prevent spreading and ensures a perfect texture. Always chill the dough as directed.
• Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients are key for flavor and texture. Check your baking powder and spices for freshness.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be golden, not overbaked.
• Not measuring accurately: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups carefully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• They can last up to one month in the freezer.

Reheating Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies.

Can I use other types of sugar in this recipe?

You can experiment with coconut sugar or maple sugar, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Look for a set top that is no longer shiny and slightly golden edges. The center should still feel soft but not raw.

Can I customize the filling inside my cookies?

Absolutely! You can use chocolate chips, nuts, or even different flavored candies if you prefer.

Are these cookies suitable for special occasions?

Yes, these cookies make delightful treats for fall gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in!

Final Thoughts

These Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy them fresh from the oven or customize them with different fillings. They’re perfect for sharing or savoring solo, so don’t hesitate to try this recipe!