Name: Soft and Chewy Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 205 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute); 1 cup sugar; 1 cup pumpkin puree (use pure pumpkin, not pie filling); 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup vegan butter or coconut oil (melted)

As the aroma of warm pumpkin spice wafts through the air, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia sweep over me. It’s that comforting scent that reminds me of cozy fall afternoons and holiday gatherings. This brings me to my favorite seasonal treat: Easy Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies. These delightful cookies are soft, chewy, and delightfully reminiscent of the classic ones I loved in my childhood, but with a modern vegan twist! Not only are they eggless and dairy-free, making them suitable for various dietary preferences, but their quick prep time means you can whip them up in no time. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply want to indulge in a sweet dessert, these cookies are fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat. Ready to find out how simple it is to create these autumnal delights? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Nostalgic Twist: These Easy Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies transport you back to childhood with their familiar flavors, minus the eggs and dairy.
Quick Prep: With minimal steps and no complicated techniques, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time – perfect for busy autumn days!
Soft & Chewy: Each bite offers a delightful texture, with a crisp edge and a soft, gooey center that melts in your mouth.
Versatile Treat: Customize them by adding spices like cinnamon or substituting various food colors for festive occasions.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether paired with your favorite hot beverage or enjoyed alone, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends! For more seasonal delights, don’t miss out on my tasty Chewy Pumpkin Cookies or melt-in-your-mouth Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies.

Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and a base for the cookies; gluten-free flour can be used as a perfect substitute!
Sugar – Adds sweetness and promotes that chewy texture we all love.
Pumpkin Puree – Offers moistness and essential pumpkin flavor; opt for pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best results.
Baking Powder – Functions as the leavening agent, allowing the cookies to rise perfectly.
Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances overall flavors.
Vegan Butter or Coconut Oil – Ensures a tender cookie by providing moisture and richness.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. Next, add in 1 cup of pumpkin puree and ½ cup of melted vegan butter or coconut oil. Stir the mixture until it forms a soft dough, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated for your delightful Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

Step 2: Chill the Dough
Once the dough is mixed, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 180 minutes, or until firm. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture, making it easier to shape the cookies later on. The longer you let it chill, the better the flavors will meld together.

Step 3: Shape Cookies
After chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use pumpkin-shaped cookie cutters to cut out your cookies, or form the dough into logs and slice into rounds. Arrange your cookie shapes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them enough space to spread slightly while baking.

Step 4: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 15 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn lightly golden while the centers remain soft. This will ensure a chewy texture in your Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies, creating that perfect balance between crisp and gooey.

Step 5: Cool
Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This lets them set perfectly before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely on the rack, which helps enhance their chewy goodness—your home will smell heavenly as these seasonal treats cool down!

Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own with easy tweaks and substitutions!

Gluten-Free: Use King Arthur Measure for Measure gluten-free flour to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Flavor Boost: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg to the dough for an extra layer of warm, aromatic goodness. The spices amplify the autumn essence, creating that cozy vibe everyone loves.
Chocolate Lovers: Stir in 1/2 cup of dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite. The chocolate pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin, creating a delightful contrast of flavors that will leave you wanting more!
Nuts for Texture: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into your dough for added crunch. These nuts not only make the cookies heartier but also enhance their taste, making them a great bite for those who enjoy a bit of texture.
Shape & Color: Use festive cookie cutters to create Halloween-themed cookies. Add plant-based food coloring to the dough for vibrant, colorful treats that are perfect for any festive occasion.
Coconut Flavors: Replace the vegan butter with coconut oil for a tropical twist—this will give your cookies a hint of coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
Apple Variation: Swap pumpkin puree for 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce for an applesauce cookie take. The resulting cookies will be softer, offering a deliciously unique autumn flavor that can brighten up any fall dessert table.
Candied Ginger: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped candied ginger for a spicy kick and a chewy texture. The zing of ginger will elevate your cookies and impress those who enjoy a little extra spice!

For more delicious recipes, be sure to check out my Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells or try a batch of Cinnamon Sugar Air Fryer Banana Chips.

Expert Tips for Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

• Warm Ingredients: Start with room temperature vegan butter for better creaminess, ensuring your cookies are soft and perfectly chewy.

• Proper Chilling: Don’t skip chilling the dough for at least three hours; this helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances flavor.

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the tender, delightful texture we aim for in these vegan pumpkin treats.

• Cookie Spacing: Leave enough space between cookies on the baking sheet; they spread while baking, and overcrowding can lead to uneven baking.

• Check for Doneness: Look for lightly golden edges while keeping the centers soft. If they seem too firm, you might miss the signature chewy texture of your Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap after mixing and refrigerate. This chilling step not only firms up the dough for easier shaping but also enhances the flavors. When you’re ready to bake, take the dough out, let it soften slightly at room temperature, and then roll out and cut into your desired shapes. Bake as instructed and enjoy your cookies, which are just as delicious as if made fresh that day!

What to Serve with Easy Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

As the sweet aroma of these cookies fills the air, consider pairing them with delightful accompaniments that will elevate your meal experience.

Creamy Hot Cocoa: The rich chocolate flavor balances the pumpkin sweetness, creating a cozy fall treat perfect for any time of day.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider complements the cookies’ flavors while inviting the season’s festive spirit into your home.
Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai blend beautifully with the pumpkin, making for a comforting drink that warms the soul.
Vanilla Almond Milk: Its nutty sweetness enhances the cookies, reminding you of autumn afternoons spent sipping warm beverages.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Soft donuts add a delightful texture contrast and a nostalgic touch, perfect for shared moments with family or friends.
Pumpkin Spice Rice Pudding: A gentle, creamy dessert that echoes the cookies’ flavors, creating a delightful coherence in your sweet spread.
Pecan Pie Bars: They introduce a crunchy texture and rich, buttery taste that beautifully complements the soft and chewy cookies.
Chocolate Glaze Dipping Sauce: Drizzling melted chocolate over your cookies adds a luxurious touch, elevating these treats to gourmet status.

Storage Tips for Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, place the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating: To revive their softness, gently reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Your Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies will taste freshly baked!

Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, opt for 100% pure pumpkin instead of pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. Check the label and ensure the puree looks smooth and has a deep, vibrant color. Additionally, if it’s homemade, make sure it’s well-drained to avoid a watery dough.

How should I store the baked cookies to maintain freshness?
Very! Store your Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. This keeps them soft and chewy. If you’re in a cooler climate, you can place them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; just allow them to come back to room temperature before diving in for the best experience.

Can I freeze these cookies for later enjoyment?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, first allow them to cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 to 2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!

What should I do if my cookies turn out dry?
Oh no! If your cookies are dryer than expected, it might be due to too much flour. Be sure to spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife rather than scooping directly from the bag; this can introduce too much flour. Another tip would be to add a tablespoon of non-dairy milk to the dough during mixing to achieve that soft and chewy texture!

Are these cookies safe for those with allergies?
Yes! These Copycat Vegan Pillsbury Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are entirely vegan, which means they contain no eggs or dairy. However, if you have allergies to gluten or nuts, be sure to use certified gluten-free flour and check the labels of your vegan butter to ensure it’s nut-free if necessary. Always read ingredient labels carefully to accommodate dietary restrictions safely!