Pumpkin Butter Filled Jack O’Lantern Sandwich Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking to impress your friends and family this Halloween with something that’s both festive and utterly delicious, you’ve got to try this Pumpkin Butter Filled Jack O’Lantern Sandwich Cookies Recipe. I absolutely love how these cookies come together—the tender, spiced cookie paired with that rich, fruity pumpkin butter filling is a match made in seasonal heaven. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a beloved tradition for you too!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Pumpkin Butter Filled Jack O’Lantern Sandwich Cookies Recipe is in balancing familiar pantry staples with seasonal specials. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the creamy pumpkin puree to the mix of warm spices. When shopping, pick fresh pumpkin puree (or homemade if you can) and fresh apple cider for the tastiest results.

• Pumpkin Purée: Use canned or homemade—make sure it’s unsweetened for control over sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar: Classic sweetener that helps the cookie dough and pumpkin butter balance perfectly.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, molasses-like depth and moisture, crucial for that soft pumpkin butter filling.
• Fresh Apple Cider: Brings tangy sweetness and a hint of acidity that brightens the filling flavor.
• Boiled Cider: Often found at farmers’ markets, it adds an intense apple flavor, but you can substitute with additional cider or apple juice.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that defines the pumpkin taste.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cookies—be sure to measure properly for the best texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors beautifully.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly without making them cakey.
• Unsalted Butter: Room temperature and high quality butter yield rich, tender cookies.
• Eggs and Egg Yolk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough, making it easy to roll and cut.
• Maple Syrup: A lovely touch of natural sweetness that complements the pumpkin butter.

Variations

I love making these cookies with little twists now and then to keep things fun. Feel free to tweak the filling or cookie spices to suit your taste buds or dietary needs—you’ll find that pumpkin is surprisingly versatile!

• Vegan Option: Swap butter for vegan margarine and use flax eggs instead—it’s a go-to I’ve tested for plant-based friends with delicious results.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice to the pumpkin butter; it gives a more complex flavor that’s perfect for spice lovers.
• Nutty Crunch: Mix finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts into the filling—my family adores the extra texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend to make these cookies accessible for all your guests without sacrificing taste.

How to Make Pumpkin Butter Filled Jack O’Lantern Sandwich Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Butter Filling

Start by combining the pumpkin purée, both sugars, fresh apple cider, boiled cider, and pumpkin pie spice in a saucepan over medium-low heat. I like to stir gently and simmer until it’s thick and glossy, about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture thickens enough to spread easily but isn’t runny. This step really develops the flavor, so don’t rush it—patience here is key!

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

While the pumpkin butter cools, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, salt, baking powder, and pumpkin pie spice. Then, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg, egg yolk, and maple syrup for that extra boost of flavor and texture. Slowly add the dry ingredients until everything just comes together—you want a smooth, pliable dough that’s easy to roll without sticking.

Step 3: Roll, Cut, and Bake

Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes—that step helps the cookies hold their unique Jack O’Lantern shapes. Roll out the dough evenly to about 1/4 inch thickness, and use your pumpkin-shaped cutters to cut out an even number of cookies. Don’t forget, the top cookie layer needs little cutout faces—carving out eyes, noses, and smiles makes all the difference for that spooky vibe!

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until edges are just turning golden. Let them cool completely—this is super important because warm cookies will cause the filling to melt and ooze out when you assemble.

Step 4: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Once cooled, spread a generous dollop of your luscious pumpkin butter on the solid cookie base, then gently press the Jack O’Lantern tops on. This is the fun part that will impress your guests! Keep your pressure gentle so the cookies don’t break but the filling is secure.

How to Serve Pumpkin Butter Filled Jack O’Lantern Sandwich Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I often sprinkle a tiny dusting of powdered sugar over the finished cookies or add a drizzle of white chocolate for a little spooky elegance. Fresh sage leaves or cinnamon sticks nearby add an autumnal touch on the serving platter that always gets compliments.

Side Dishes

Pair your Jack O’Lantern sandwich cookies with a warm cup of chai or hot apple cider—both drinks bring out the cozy pumpkin spices. For parties, mini pumpkin pies and spiced nuts round out the seasonal snack spread perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For Halloween, I’ve used black and orange serving trays, lined with rustic burlap or parchment stamped with spooky patterns. You can even place little edible googly eyes on some cookies for a whimsical touch that kids love. Make a cookie tower or arrange them to mimic a glowing jack-o-lantern display for added fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After assembling, these cookies keep well stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live somewhere warm, refrigerate them to keep the filling from getting too soft, but bring them to room temp before serving for best flavor.

Freezing

I’ve frozen both baked cookies and assembled sandwiches with great success. For best results, freeze the plain cookies and the pumpkin butter separately, then assemble after thawing. Wrap your cookies tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating

If you want to warm your pumpkin butter filled cookies slightly, pop them in a warm oven (about 300°F) for 5 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked feel without melting the filling. Avoid microwaving, which can make the cookies too soft and gummy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Butter Filled Jack O’Lantern Sandwich Cookies Recipe has become one of my all-time favorites to bake in the fall. I cherish the cozy aroma filling my kitchen and the joy these little pumpkin faces bring to everyone who tastes them. You’ll enjoy the straightforward process and the rewarding results that make your Halloween celebrations extra special. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and have fun creating this charming seasonal treat I’m sure you’ll love as much as I do!

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