Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies

Buttery, spiced pumpkin-flavored no-bake cookies with oats — perfect for a quick, cozy treat!
Introduction
Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies are one of those nostalgic, comforting treats that are quick to make and packed with warm fall flavors. These cookies combine the rich creaminess of butter and pumpkin with the hearty texture of oats, all blended with classic pumpkin spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. They’re an easy, no-oven-required dessert that’s perfect when you want something sweet and seasonal without a lot of fuss.
I’ve made these cookies countless times during chilly autumn evenings, and they never disappoint. The pumpkin puree adds a lovely moistness and subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices, making these cookies irresistibly cozy. Plus, since they don’t require baking, they’re a great option for busy days or when you want a homemade treat without turning on the oven.
Whether you’re looking for a quick afternoon snack, a holiday dessert, or a sweet treat to share with friends, these Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies will hit the spot every time.
Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies
Easy and Fast
No baking means you can whip up these cookies in under 30 minutes.
Seasonal Flavor
Pumpkin and warm spices create the perfect cozy autumn taste.
Chewy and Buttery
The oats give a chewy texture while the butter adds richness.
Kid-Friendly
Simple to make and delicious to eat—kids love helping with these.
No Special Equipment Needed
Just a saucepan and a spoon, no mixer or oven required.
Preparation and Cooking Time
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Total Time: 20 minutes
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Yield: 12 cookies
Ingredients
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1/2 cup unsalted butter
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 cup packed brown sugar
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1/4 cup milk
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1/4 cup pumpkin puree
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 cups quick-cooking oats
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
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1/4 teaspoon salt
Ingredient Highlights
Pumpkin Puree
Adds moisture and that unmistakable fall flavor while keeping the cookies soft.
Quick-Cooking Oats
Give the cookies a hearty, chewy texture and make them more filling.
Warm Spices
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves bring comforting warmth and depth to the flavor.
Butter and Sugars
Provide richness and sweetness, balancing the spices perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies is straightforward and fun! Follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the sugar mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and milk. Stir frequently and bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat.
Step 2: Boil for 1 minute
Once boiling, continue to boil the mixture for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Then remove the pan from heat.
Step 3: Add pumpkin and vanilla
Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Mix in spices and salt
Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices.
Step 5: Incorporate oats
Gradually add the quick-cooking oats, stirring until all the oats are fully coated with the pumpkin-sugar mixture.
Step 6: Form cookies
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper or parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them apart to allow for setting.
Step 7: Cool and set
Let the cookies cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, allowing them to firm up before serving.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies
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Serve as a cozy snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
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Pack them in lunchboxes for a seasonal treat.
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Offer them on dessert platters at fall gatherings or holiday parties.
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Wrap individually in wax paper and gift them during the holidays.
Additional Tips
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Use fresh pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and texture.
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If you like a stronger spice flavor, increase cinnamon or add a pinch of ginger.
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Make sure to boil the sugar mixture for the full minute for proper setting.
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Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
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You can refrigerate leftovers to keep them firmer longer.
Recipe Variations
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Chocolate Pumpkin Spice Cookies: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the sugar mixture for a chocolate twist.
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Nutty Cookies: Mix in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
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Maple Pumpkin Cookies: Substitute half the sugar with maple syrup for a rich maple flavor.
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Gluten-Free Version: Use certified gluten-free oats to make these safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Freezing and Storage
Freezing
After forming, freeze the cookies on a tray until firm, then transfer to an airtight freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Storage
Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Special Equipment
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Medium saucepan for boiling sugar mixture
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Spoon or cookie scoop for portioning
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Wax paper or parchment-lined baking sheet for setting cookies
FAQ Section for Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
You can, but old-fashioned oats will make the cookies chewier and less uniform. Quick oats work best for proper texture and setting.
Can I substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative?
Yes, almond, soy, or oat milk work well in this recipe without affecting the flavor much.
Why do my cookies stay sticky and don’t set?
Make sure to boil the sugar mixture for the full 1 minute and use quick oats. Underboiling or using the wrong oats can cause them not to set properly.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Stir in chocolate chips or nuts after adding oats for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Spice No Bake Cookies offer a delightful blend of buttery richness, cozy pumpkin spice, and hearty oats — all in a no-fuss, quick-to-make treat. Perfect for busy days, chilly evenings, or whenever you crave a comforting bite without the oven, these cookies will soon become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen.
Easy, flavorful, and versatile, these cookies capture the essence of fall in every bite. Try them today and enjoy the cozy warmth of pumpkin spice with none of the fuss! I’d love to hear how your cookies turn out—feel free to share your photos or tips. Happy baking!