Velvety Pumpkin Cookies: Perfect Autumn Flavor

In a medium bowl, sift and combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix well and set aside. The short answer is: sifting ensures lightness and uniformity to the cookie dough.

In a large bowl, using an electric mixer (paddle attachment), beat the softened butter and granulated sugar at medium-high speed until light and fluffy, for about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for the velvety texture.

Add the pumpkin purée, the large egg, and the vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat at medium-low speed until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is homogeneous, scraping the sides of the bowl as necessary.

Reduce the mixer speed to the minimum and gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Beat only until the flour is incorporated and the dough is formed. The secret of this recipe is not to overmix, so as not to develop the gluten and keep the biscuits soft.

Divide the dough in half, form two flat discs, and wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days). The professional technique is: cooling prevents the cookies from spreading and helps maintain their shapes when cutting.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Remove one disk of dough from the refrigerator at a time. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin to about 0.6 cm thick.

Use autumn-themed cookie cutters (pumpkins, leaves, acorns) to cut the cookies. Transfer them carefully to the prepared baking sheets, leaving a small space between each one. Gather the leftover dough, re-knead, and cut more cookies.

Bake for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden and the center of the cookies looks firm, but still soft. Do not overbake! The most important tip is: the cookies will continue cooking a little after being removed from the oven, ensuring perfect softness.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Make sure they are completely cool before decorating with your favorite glaze.