If you love baking with pumpkin, you’re going to love this collection of the Best Pumpkin Cookies and Bars Recipes! From soft pumpkin cookies and chocolate chip favorites to rich brownies, chewy blondies and delicious dessert bars, there’s something here for every pumpkin lover.
Pumpkin is one of my favorite ingredients to bake with in the fall. It adds wonderful moisture to cookies and bars, and it tastes especially good with cinnamon, chocolate, cream cheese and all those cozy fall spices.
I’ve gathered 25 delicious pumpkin cookie and bar recipes, including plenty of favorites from RecipeGirl and RecipeBoy. Some are simple enough for an afternoon baking project, while others are perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dessert trays, bake sales and sharing with friends.
Whether you’re craving a classic pumpkin cookie or something a little more decadent, you’ll find lots of good things to bake here!
Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Cookie and Bar Recipes
- There are 25 different recipes to choose from, including cookies, brownies, blondies and dessert bars.
- You’ll find everything from traditional pumpkin spice flavors to pumpkin and chocolate combinations.
- Many of these recipes are great for fall parties, bake sales and holiday dessert trays.
- There are both simple everyday treats and more indulgent desserts.
- Most are recipes using canned pumpkin puree.
Best Pumpkin Cookie Recipes
Pumpkin cookies are one of my favorite things to bake when fall arrives. Some are soft and cake-like, while others have a more traditional cookie texture. This collection includes cinnamon-sugar favorites, chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal cookies and a few fun variations worth trying.
1. Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
If you love classic snickerdoodles, you’ll want to try this pumpkin version! The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon-sugar makes these a wonderful cookie for fall baking.
2. Pumpkin Shortbread Cookies
A delicious fall twist on traditional shortbread cookies! These pumpkin cookies are a fun choice when you’re in the mood for something a little different from the usual soft pumpkin cookie.
3. Pumpkin Pie Biscotti
Pumpkin pie flavors meet the classic twice-baked Italian cookie in this fun fall recipe. These biscotti are a lovely treat to enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
4. Pumpkin White Chocolate Cookies
These pumpkin cookies have a delicious combination of white chocolate and butterscotch flavors. They’re a sweet alternative to the usual pumpkin chocolate chip cookie.
5. Pumpkin Oatmeal Candy Bar Cookies
These soft pumpkin oatmeal cookies have miniature chocolate chips mixed into the dough and a chocolate candy bar placed on top while they’re still warm. The chocolate melts into a delicious frosting-like topping. They’re also a fun way to use leftover Halloween candy!
6. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
You can’t go wrong with pumpkin and chocolate chips! These cookies have a delicious pumpkin spice flavor with plenty of milk chocolate chips throughout. Chilling the dough helps them bake up with a more traditional cookie texture.
7. Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Pumpkin and oatmeal are a delicious combination in a fall cookie. These are a great choice for anyone who loves oatmeal cookies and wants to give them a seasonal twist.
8. Pumpkin Spice Cookies
These cookies are all about the warm spices that make pumpkin baking so irresistible. They’re a great addition to a fall cookie platter.
9. Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies
Pumpkin and cheesecake are a delicious combination, and these cookies bring those two favorite flavors together in one sweet treat.
10. Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Sometimes a classic soft pumpkin cookie is exactly what you’re craving! These are the kind of simple, comforting cookies that make fall baking so much fun.
11. Whole Wheat Pumpkin Cookies
Whole wheat flour gives these pumpkin cookies a little something different from traditional recipes. They’re a nice option for anyone who enjoys baking with whole grains.
Best Pumpkin Brownies and Blondies
Chocolate and pumpkin make a surprisingly delicious combination! These brownies and blondies are a great choice when you’re craving something richer than a traditional pumpkin cookie. They’re also easy to cut into squares for parties and dessert trays.
12. Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies
Pumpkin cheesecake and chocolate brownies come together in one decadent dessert. This is a fun choice when you can’t decide between brownies and cheesecake.
13. Pumpkin Blondies
Blondies are always a favorite, and adding pumpkin gives them a delicious fall twist. They’re a wonderful alternative to traditional chocolate brownies.
14. Chocolate Pumpkin Brownies
If you love chocolate desserts, these brownies are worth adding to your fall baking list. Pumpkin and chocolate come together for a rich dessert that’s a little different from the usual pumpkin treats.
Best Pumpkin Bars and Squares
Pumpkin bars are perfect for sharing! They’re easy to bake in a pan, cut into individual servings and bring to parties or family gatherings. This collection includes everything from classic pumpkin bars to cheesecake squares, chocolate chip treats and layered desserts.
15. Pumpkin Pecan Bars
Pumpkin and pecans are a natural combination for fall. These dessert bars are a delicious choice for anyone who enjoys nutty flavors in their pumpkin treats.
16. Pumpkin Bars
You can’t have a pumpkin bar roundup without including the classic! These are a wonderful fall dessert to make for parties, potlucks or an afternoon treat.
17. Cinnamon Pumpkin Bars
Cinnamon and pumpkin are always good together. These bars bring those familiar fall flavors into an easy-to-share dessert.
18. Pumpkin Raisin Bars
Raisins add a little extra sweetness to these pumpkin bars. They’re a nice change from the chocolate-filled pumpkin desserts that tend to get all the attention.
19. Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Squares
These pumpkin squares combine two favorite baking ingredients: pumpkin and chocolate chips. They’re a delicious option for a fall dessert tray or after-school treat.
20. Pumpkin Cheesecake Crumble Squares
These layered dessert squares combine a pecan-oat crust, creamy spiced pumpkin cheesecake filling, sour cream topping and buttery crumble. They’re especially nice when you want a pumpkin dessert that’s a little more special.
21. No Bake Pumpkin Shortbread Bars
These creamy pumpkin bars start with a buttery shortbread cookie crust and have a pumpkin cream cheese filling, whipped topping and more shortbread crumbs on top. Best of all, there’s no baking required! Just give them time to chill before cutting.
22. Pumpkin Gooey Butter Bars
These decadent pumpkin bars start with an easy cake mix crust and have a rich pumpkin cream cheese filling. They’re soft, sweet and wonderfully gooey in the center. A great choice when you want a really indulgent pumpkin dessert!
23. Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bars
Pumpkin and chocolate chips are always a winning combination. These easy dessert bars are a great option when you want something you can bake in one pan and cut into squares.
24. Pumpkin Magic Bars
Magic bars are known for their delicious layers, and a pumpkin version is a fun fall twist. They’re a great choice for anyone who loves rich, sweet dessert bars with a variety of flavors and textures.
25. Pumpkin 7-Layer Bars
These pumpkin bars are inspired by classic seven-layer bars, with a buttery crumb crust, pumpkin spice flavor, chocolate and other sweet layers. They’re a delicious dessert for fall gatherings and holiday cookie trays.
Tips for Baking the Best Pumpkin Cookies and Bars
Use plain pumpkin puree. Most pumpkin cookie and bar recipes call for unsweetened pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The two aren’t interchangeable because pumpkin pie filling already contains sugar and spices.
Measure your pumpkin carefully. Pumpkin adds moisture to baked goods, so using more than the recipe calls for can change the texture.
Don’t overmix the dough or batter. Once the flour is added, mix just until everything is combined unless the recipe says otherwise.
Follow chilling instructions. Some pumpkin cookie doughs need time in the refrigerator to help the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Pay attention to baking times. Soft pumpkin cookies and gooey dessert bars can look a little different from traditional cookies and brownies when they’re done. Follow the instructions for each recipe.
Cool bars before slicing. Letting dessert bars cool completely makes them easier to cut into neat squares. Some cream cheese bars also need refrigeration before serving.
Store cream cheese desserts properly. Bars and cookies with perishable cheesecake fillings or cream cheese toppings should be refrigerated according to the individual recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Cookies and Bars
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, I recommend using plain unsweetened pumpkin puree unless the recipe specifically calls for pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling already has sugar and spices added, which can affect the flavor and texture of your cookies or bars.
Why are some pumpkin cookies soft and cake-like?
Pumpkin contains quite a bit of moisture, which can give cookies a softer, more cake-like texture. Recipes with different amounts of pumpkin, butter and flour can produce very different results.
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Yes, homemade pumpkin puree can work in many recipes, but it may contain more moisture than canned pumpkin. If your homemade puree is watery, you may need to drain it before using it.
Can pumpkin cookies and bars be frozen?
Many pumpkin cookies and bars freeze well, especially those without delicate toppings. Cool them completely, wrap them well and freeze according to the individual recipe’s instructions. Creamy or layered desserts may not freeze as successfully.
Do pumpkin cookies need to be refrigerated?
It depends on the recipe. Many plain pumpkin cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. Cookies and bars with cream cheese fillings, cheesecake layers or other perishable toppings should be refrigerated.
Can I make pumpkin cookies and bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Many of these recipes are perfect for making ahead of a fall party or Thanksgiving gathering. Some bars are even easier to slice after they’ve had time to cool or chill.
What flavors go well with pumpkin?
Pumpkin pairs especially well with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, chocolate, white chocolate, cream cheese, caramel, pecans and walnuts.
More Pumpkin Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re looking for even more ways to enjoy pumpkin season, be sure to check out my 44 Recipes to Make with Canned Pumpkin collection. It’s filled with pumpkin breakfast ideas, savory dishes, desserts and pies.
