Pumpkin Jack O Lantern (Printable Recipe)

Soft pumpkin cookies with playful icing faces, perfect for Halloween celebrations and family fun.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Cookie Dough

01 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, unbleached
02 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg, room temperature
07 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
08 - Orange gel food coloring

→ Decoration

09 - Black decorating icing

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
03 - In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar on medium speed for 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
04 - Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until incorporated, creating a smooth batter.
05 - Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, then add orange gel food coloring until dough is evenly tinted.
06 - Roll dough into 1 1/2-inch balls, place on baking sheets, and flatten tops with the bottom of a glass. Space cookies 2 inches apart.
07 - Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Centers will look soft but will firm as they cool.
08 - Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes, transfer to a wire rack, and decorate with black icing once completely cooled.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Chill dough before baking to keep cookies round and evenly puffed.
02 - Use gel food coloring for a bright orange dough without thinning the mixture.
03 - Cookies stay soft up to five days in an airtight container.

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