As the leaves turn golden and the air brings a crisp hint of coolness, it’s the perfect time to fill your kitchen with cozy scents. I found myself craving the warm, spiced goodness of fall when a batch of these Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies emerged in my thoughts. Imagine the soft, chewy texture of oatmeal sweetened with coconut sugar, paired with a rich, velvety date caramel—yes, please!
These cookies not only celebrate the flavors of the season but also cater to those seeking delicious, gluten-free, and vegan treats that everyone can enjoy. With every bite, you’ll be reminded of lazy autumn afternoons spent sipping tea and nibbling on sweet confections. The best part? They’re deceptively easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that captures the essence of fall—one thumbprint at a time!
Why choose Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies?
Comforting aromas: Picture the enchanting scent of pumpkin spice wafting through your home, making every day feel like autumn.
Nutritious indulgence: Made with gluten-free and vegan-friendly ingredients, these cookies let you savor a treat without the guilt.
Unique twist: Say goodbye to traditional fillings; the velvety date caramel offers a rich sweetness unlike any other.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies will impress everyone.
Quick and easy: Whip them up in no time, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps—perfect for any skill level!
Versatile delights: Feel free to mix in nuts or chocolate chips for a personal touch and create endless variations.
Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
• Vegan Butter – Adds creaminess and binds ingredients. Substitution: Use coconut oil for a lower-calorie option.
• Coconut Sugar – Provides natural sweetness without refined sugars. Substitution: Can use maple syrup, but adjust liquid ingredients accordingly.
• Pumpkin Puree – Essential for flavor and moisture. Note: Ensure it’s pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie mix.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor. Substitution: Use almond extract for a different profile.
• Gluten-Free Oat Flour – Offers structure to cookies. Substitution: Can replace with almond flour, but adjust quantities as they may absorb moisture differently.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Main spice blend contributing to the pumpkin flavor. Substitution: Make your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth. Note: An extra pinch enhances flavor.
• Baking Soda – Leavening agent for a slight rise. Note: Ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Plant Milk (e.g., Oat Milk) – Adds moisture. Substitution: Almond or soy milk can be used.
• Gluten-Free Quick Oats – Adds texture. Note: Look for certified gluten-free oats to avoid cross-contamination.
For the Date Caramel Filling
• Medjool Dates – Base for the date caramel filling, providing natural sweetness. Note: Use soft, fresh dates for the best consistency.
• Coconut Cream – Creates a creamy caramel consistency. Substitution: Heavy cream for non-vegan versions.
These Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies with Date Caramel make the perfect fall treat, blending delicious flavors and a delightful texture!
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked cookie with that delightful, chewy texture.
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Cream together vegan butter, pumpkin puree, coconut sugar, and pure vanilla extract in a large bowl. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
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Whisk the dry ingredients by combining oat flour, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. This will blend flavors and ensure even baking.
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Combine the wet and dry ingredients by gradually adding the dry mixture to the creamy base. Stir until a soft dough forms, inviting holiday aromas to fill your kitchen.
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Mix in plant milk and gluten-free quick oats until everything is evenly incorporated. The dough should be slightly sticky yet manageable.
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Scoop the dough using a cookie scoop. Roll into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
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Create a well in the center of each ball with your thumb. This thumbprint will cradle the delicious date caramel filling.
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Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, watching for a light golden edge. Soft cookies will be ready at 10 minutes; go for 12 if you prefer a firmer bite.
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Cool the cookies on a wire rack for a few minutes before filling them with that luscious date caramel. This step allows them to set perfectly.
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Prepare the date caramel by microwaving pitted Medjool dates covered in water for 2 minutes. Blend with coconut cream and vanilla until smooth, then fill each cookie well.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies with Date Caramel are ideal for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance, simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. The date caramel filling can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet, create the thumbprint, and bake as directed. After cooling, fill each cookie with the prepared caramel, and enjoy the same delightful flavors without the rush!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and delightful flavor.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Make sure they are in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze cookies by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: To revive the cookies, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste, perfect for enjoying your Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies with Date Caramel!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies with Date Caramel?
As you indulge in the warm, spiced goodness of these cookies, let’s create a delightful spread to elevate your autumn experience.
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Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or chai beautifully complements the cookies’ spices, enhancing your cozy treat time.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The sweetness and warmth of spiced apple cider make the perfect pairing, evoking memories of fall festivities.
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Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan vanilla ice cream adds a luscious contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies, turning dessert into a decadent experience.
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Roasted Pumpkin Soup: A bowl of creamy roasted pumpkin soup creates a savory counterpart that contrasts the sweetness of the cookies while keeping with the fall theme.
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Cheese Platter: Include tangy vegan cheeses alongside crisp apple slices for a delightful sweet and savory balance that never fails to please.
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Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: This rich, creamy beverage envelops you in warmth, making each bite of the cookies taste even better with its indulgent flavor.
Combining these elements will surely create a memorable autumn gathering that celebrates the season’s best flavors!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies
- Ingredient Freshness: Ensure all components, especially baking soda and spices, are fresh for optimal flavor and rise in your cookies.
- Dough Consistency: The cookie dough should be slightly sticky. If too dry, a touch more plant milk will help achieve the right texture.
- Cookie Size: Use a cookie scoop for uniformity. Equal-sized balls ensure even baking and consistent texture in your Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies.
- Baking Time: For softer cookies, aim for 10 minutes; for a firmer texture, bake for up to 12 minutes. Adjust based on your preference.
- Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before filling to allow them to set and avoid any mess with the date caramel.
Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies Variations
Customize these delightful treats to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy contrast that complements the softness of the cookie.
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Chocolate Indulgence: Swap in dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet surprise, creating a decadent blend of flavors.
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Maple Twist: Use maple syrup in place of coconut sugar for a unique sweetness that enhances the fall vibes of the cookies.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or ginger for a bit of heat, giving your cookies an unexpected zing that will surprise your taste buds!
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate finely chopped dried fruit, such as cranberries or apricots, for a chewy texture and fruity burst in each bite.
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Coconut Crunch: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist that pairs effortlessly with the warm pumpkin spice flavor.
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Almond Flour Swap: For a nutty flavor and a different texture, replace all or part of the oat flour with almond flour, but adjust moisture levels accordingly.
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Jammy Filling: For a more traditional thumbprint experience, switch out the date caramel for your favorite homemade jam for a sweet and fruity alternative.
Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies with Date Caramel Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! It’s essential to use pure pumpkin puree for this recipe—not the sweetened pumpkin pie mix. Look for cans labeled “100% pure pumpkin” to ensure you’re getting the best flavor and texture for your cookies.
How should I store these cookies?
Store these delightful Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them, and they’ll last for up to a week. Just be sure to keep them sealed well to prevent drying out!
Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies?
Very! To freeze, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a zipper-lock freezer bag. These cookies can stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds to restore their soft texture.
What can I do if my cookie dough seems too dry?
If you find your cookie dough is a bit crumbly, don’t worry! Simply add a tablespoon of plant milk at a time, mixing until you reach a slightly sticky consistency. This will help bind the ingredients together, ensuring your cookies bake up beautifully chewy.
Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, you can make these cookies nut-free! Just be sure to choose certified gluten-free oats, and substitute any nut-based milk (like almond milk) with oat or soy milk. It’s all about finding alternatives that suit your dietary needs, and these cookies can be enjoyed by many!
How can I tell if my cookies are done baking?
Baking time can vary! For soft cookies, aim to take them out at around 10 minutes. If you prefer a firmer cookie, let them bake for up to 12 minutes. They should have a light golden edge, but do remember they will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake them.
Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Thumbprint Cookies with Date Caramel Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked cookie with that delightful, chewy texture.
- Cream together vegan butter, pumpkin puree, coconut sugar, and pure vanilla extract in a large bowl. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Whisk the dry ingredients by combining oat flour, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. This will blend flavors and ensure even baking.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients by gradually adding the dry mixture to the creamy base. Stir until a soft dough forms, inviting holiday aromas to fill your kitchen.
- Mix in plant milk and gluten-free quick oats until everything is evenly incorporated. The dough should be slightly sticky yet manageable.
- Scoop the dough using a cookie scoop. Roll into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Create a well in the center of each ball with your thumb. This thumbprint will cradle the delicious date caramel filling.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, watching for a light golden edge. Soft cookies will be ready at 10 minutes; go for 12 if you prefer a firmer bite.
- Cool the cookies on a wire rack for a few minutes before filling them with that luscious date caramel. This step allows them to set perfectly.
- Prepare the date caramel by microwaving pitted Medjool dates covered in water for 2 minutes. Blend with coconut cream and vanilla until smooth, then fill each cookie well.