The air is crisp, and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the kitchen as October sweeps in. I can’t help but get excited for Halloween treats, especially when they blend festive flavors with a playful twist. Enter my Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies, a delightful balance of chewy goodness and whimsical charm. These cookies combine the nutty richness of brown butter and the warm embrace of pumpkin, creating a cozy treat that’s just as perfect for gatherings as it is for quiet nights at home. Not only are they easy to whip up, but the adorable white chocolate ghosts make them a show-stopping addition to your Halloween festivities. Ready to bake something that’ll impress your friends and family this season? Let’s get started! Why are these cookies a must-try? Festive Flavor: Each bite bursts with the warm spices of pumpkin and the rich nuttiness of brown butter, making these cookies perfect for Halloween gatherings. Chewy Texture: Thanks to the combination of pumpkin puree and a brief dough rest, you’ll achieve a delightfully chewy cookie that melts in your mouth. Adorable Design: The charming white chocolate ghosts that top each cookie add a playful twist that kids and adults will love. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies are a breeze to whip up. Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment by swapping maple syrup for honey or playing with spices to make this treat your own. Enjoy alongside a glass of milk or warm cider, just like you would with our Chewy Brown Butter or Peanut Butter Banana creations! Ingredients for Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies • For the Cookies Brown Butter – Enhances flavor with a rich, nutty profile crucial for these cookies. Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and tenderness; you can choose between canned or homemade. Maple Syrup – Provides natural sweetness; feel free to substitute with honey or agave if desired. All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of your cookies; it’s best not to substitute for optimal texture. Baking Soda – A crucial leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the perfect rise. Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor; using sea salt adds a delightful touch. Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses the cookies with Halloween warmth; can swap for cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger if you’d like to mix it up. • For the Ghost Decoration White Chocolate – Perfect for creating cute ghost shapes; dark chocolate is a lovely alternative for a deeper flavor. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies Step 1: Brown the Butter In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter while stirring constantly. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove from heat and let it cool slightly, ensuring it doesn’t solidify. This browned butter will add a rich flavor to your Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies. Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter with pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and eggs. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat until the mixture is well blended and smooth—this will take about 2-3 minutes. The creamy texture will set the foundation for your delicious cookie dough, overflowing with fall flavor. Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice until well-combined. This step ensures that the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. Once done, set this bowl aside, as you’ll be integrating it into the wet ingredients shortly. Step 4: Combine Ingredients Gradually add the dry mixture into the bowl with the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, ideal for creating the chewy texture of your Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies. Step 5: Scoop the Dough Using a medium cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto light-colored baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are spaced at least 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking. The uniform size will help achieve consistent baking and presentation for each spooky cookie ghost. Step 6: Bake the Cookies Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once ready, bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops have a slightly cracked appearance. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden, but not overly dark. This assures a tender and chewy center, essential for your Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies. Step 7: Cool and Decorate Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Use a piping bag or a spoon to create ghost shapes on top of each cookie, making sure to let them set before serving. Expert Tips for Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies Brown Butter Magic: Make sure to brown the butter patiently to develop that rich, nutty flavor; keep a close eye to avoid burning it. Chill Dough: Let the cookie dough rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking; this enhances the chewy texture of your Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies. Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to maintain a tender crumb; overmixing can result in tough cookies. Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they’re ready when the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked to maintain a soft, chewy interior. Cool Before Decorate: Allow the cookies to cool completely before decorating with white chocolate; decorating warm cookies can cause the chocolate to melt and lose shape. What to Serve with Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies The delightful aroma of these cookies can transform any gathering into a festive celebration, creating the perfect backdrop for sharing memorable moments. Creamy Hot Chocolate: This rich, velvety drink complements the chewy texture of the cookies, enhancing the warmth of the season. Perfect for sipping on cold, crisp nights. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: The subtle cinnamon and sugar elevate the sweet pumpkin flavors, creating a delightful treat pairing that feels like a cozy fall fair. Apple Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies while embracing fall’s quintessential flavors. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over the cookies for an extra layer of indulgence that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin, making each bite even more memorable. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm cookies, leading to a delightful, melty experience with each bite. Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai mirror the pumpkin pie spice in the cookies, creating a beautifully cohesive flavor profile that warms both body and spirit. Pecan Pie Bars: These decadent bars introduce a nutty crunch and sweetness that pairs uniquely with the chewy texture of the cookies, a sure way to impress your guests. Candied Nuts: Sweet and crunchy nuts provide a delightful texture contrast, elevating your dessert experience while offering a whimsical touch alongside your ghostly treats. Make Ahead Options These Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies are ideal for busy cooks looking to save time during the Halloween season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the dough from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and bake the cookies straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time as needed. The cookies will still turn out just as delicious, maintaining their chewy texture and festive flair. This makes it a breeze to enjoy freshly baked cookies with minimal effort when guests arrive! Variations & Substitutions for Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies Don’t be afraid to sprinkle in your own unique spin on these cookies; the possibilities are as fun as they are delicious! Maple Twist: Substitute maple syrup with honey for a floral sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly. Honey brings a distinct richness that pairs beautifully with our Halloween theme. Spice it Up: Use ginger or cardamom instead of pumpkin pie spice for an exciting depth of flavor. These spices will add a warm kick, reminiscent of a cozy autumn day. Darker Chocolate Delight: Replace white chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer, more decadent decoration. The bitterness of dark chocolate offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cookies. Nutty Add-In: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and a wholesome touch. Nuts provide a nice texture that balances the chewy cookie base and elevates the overall experience. Coconut Flakes: Add shredded coconut to your dough for a tropical, nutty flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the pumpkin. Coconut can impart a sweet chewiness that makes each bite even more memorable. Extra Chewy: Incorporate a tablespoon of cornstarch into your dry ingredients to enhance the chewiness of your cookies. This simple addition will leave you with a delightfully tender treat. Pumpkin Alternative: Swap pumpkin puree for sweet potato puree for a different twist; sweet potatoes add a unique flavor while still keeping that moist, tender texture intact. Fruit Filling: Consider stuffing your cookies with a dollop of homemade apple butter or cranberry sauce for a delightful surprise. The fruity filling adds a festive contrast to the pumpkin base. Feel free to explore these variations, and make sure to enjoy them with a cozy glass of warm cider or perhaps our Garlic Butter Chicken on the side for a full autumn feast! How to Store and Freeze Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their chewy texture and delightful flavor. Fridge: For extended freshness, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but make sure to bring them back to room temperature before enjoying. Freezer: Freeze the cooled cookies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheating: Warm individual cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their soft, chewy goodness before serving, making your Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies even more delightful! Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies Recipe FAQs What type of pumpkin puree should I use? Absolutely! You can use either canned pumpkin puree or make your own from fresh pumpkins. If opting for homemade, select sugar pumpkins, as they have the best flavor and texture. Make sure to roast and mash the pumpkin before measuring, yielding about 1 cup for this recipe. How should I store my cookies? Store your Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you find you’re not able to eat them all quickly, keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks for extended freshness, but be sure to bring them back to room temperature before devouring! Can I freeze these cookies? Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature, or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that soft, fresh-out-of-the-oven taste. What if my cookies turn out too dry? If your cookies end up dry, it might be due to overbaking or using too much flour. Ensure your measuring technique is accurate—spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping it directly from the bag. Also, keep an eye on the baking time; the cookies are done when the edges are set, and the tops appear slightly cracked. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Very! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking. For those who can’t consume dairy, consider using a dairy-free butter replacement while maintaining the same browning technique to achieve that nutty flavor. Always double-check chocolate brands for allergens, particularly if catering to those with nut allergies. Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies for a Cozy Halloween Enjoy these Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies, a delightful Halloween treat bursting with pumpkin spice and adorned with white chocolate ghosts. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 57 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookies1 cup Brown Butter Enhances flavor with a rich, nutty profile1 cup Pumpkin Puree Adds moisture and tenderness1/2 cup Maple Syrup Provides natural sweetness; can substitute with honey2 cups All-Purpose Flour The backbone of your cookies1 teaspoon Baking Soda A crucial leavening agent1/2 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavor2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice Infuses cookies with Halloween warmthFor the Ghost Decoration1 cup White Chocolate Perfect for creating ghost shapes Equipment Medium saucepanLarge mixing bowlWhiskElectric mixerCookie scoopParchment paperMicrowave-safe bowlPiping bag Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBrown the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, stirring constantly until golden brown and nutty, about 5-7 minutes. Let it cool slightly.Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooled brown butter, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and eggs. Beat until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice until well-combined.Combine Ingredients: Gradually add dry mixture to wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.Scoop the Dough: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto lined baking sheets, spaced at least 2 inches apart.Bake the Cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake cookies for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.Cool and Decorate: Let cookies cool slightly then transfer to a wire rack. Melt white chocolate and pipe ghost shapes on top of each cookie. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor optimal texture, let the dough rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
