These Air Fryer Pumpkin Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with pumpkin flavor! They are super easy to whip up and perfect for cozy evenings.
I love how quick they are to make—just mix the ingredients, scoop, and air fry! Plus, the warm spices smell amazing while baking. Who can resist a cookie like that? 🍪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: You can use canned or homemade pumpkin puree. If fresh, just steam or roast pumpkin and mash it. Canned is often more convenient, but fresh has a lovely flavor if you have the time!
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but you can replace it with gluten-free flour if needed. Just keep in mind that gluten-free options might change the texture, so choose a blend made for baking.
Granulated Sugar: I usually go with brown sugar for a moister cookie. It brings a rich flavor too! If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, coconut sugar works well, but it may affect the color and flavor slightly.
Spices: Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves create that classic fall flavor. You can adjust these based on your preference or even use a pumpkin spice mix if you have it on hand.
Chocolate Chips: I love using semi-sweet chocolate chips, but milk or dark chocolate can be great options. For a healthier twist, try adding chopped nuts or dried fruit instead!
How Do You Get Air Fryer Cookies to Bake Evenly?
Baking cookies in an air fryer can be a little tricky, so here are some tips to ensure they cook evenly:
- Preheat: Always preheat your air fryer as it helps to create a consistent temperature for baking.
- Spacing: Make sure not to overcrowd the basket! Leave space between cookies for proper air circulation, or bake in batches if needed.
- Flattening: Gently flattening dough balls helps them spread evenly and cook through properly. It gives a nice cookie shape too!
- Check Early: Since air fryers can vary in temperature, check the cookies a few minutes before the suggested cooking time to avoid overcooking.
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to baking perfectly cooked pumpkin cookies in your air fryer every time!
How to Make Air Fryer Pumpkin Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Batter:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar for more moisture)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer, making it a super quick treat. Total time from start to finish is about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, egg, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This mixture will be thick and creamy!
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar (or brown sugar), baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all the spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves). Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing; a few lumps are okay!
4. Add Chocolate Chips:
Fold in the chocolate chips gently so they are spread throughout the batter. Save a few to sprinkle on top of the cookies if you want!
5. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for about 3 minutes. This helps create perfect cookies with a nice texture.
6. Portion the Dough:
Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, scoop out the dough and place it onto a parchment paper-lined air fryer basket or tray. Flatten each cookie slightly with your fingers or a spoon for the best shape.
7. Add Toppings:
Press a few extra chocolate chips on top of each cookie, just for a cute presentation!
8. Air Fry the Cookies:
Place the basket in the air fryer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, let the cookies cool in the air fryer for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will firm up as they cool!
10. Store or Serve:
Enjoy these warm treats right away, or store them in an airtight container to enjoy later. They make the perfect snack or dessert for any pumpkin lover!
These cookies are soft and cakey, with just the right amount of spices and melted chocolate chips. They’re quick, easy, and absolutely delicious! 🍪
Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour for These Cookies?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to use a blend that’s suitable for baking to maintain the right texture and consistency.
How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them by placing in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring to a freezer-safe container once frozen.
Can I Add Nuts or Dried Fruits to the Cookie Dough?
Yes, feel free to customize your cookies! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add crunch, while dried fruits like cranberries can give a nice sweetness. Just keep the total mix-ins around ½ cup to ensure the dough holds up well.
What Should I Do If My Cookies Are Too Soft After Air Frying?
If your cookies are too soft after air frying, you might need to increase the cook time slightly. Try adding a minute or two while keeping an eye on them to avoid overcooking. They will firm up a bit more as they cool, too!
