Orange Pumpkin Spiced Scone Cookie Cut-Outs
These unique hybrid treats combine the tender, cake-like texture of scones with the fun shapes of cut-out cookies. Enriched with pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, they offer cozy autumn flavors brightened by fresh orange zest. Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday cookie exchanges, or afternoon tea. The scone-like texture sets them apart from traditional sugar cookies, while the optional orange glaze and raisin decorations add visual appeal and extra flavor layers.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup butter
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 ½ cups flour
- ½ cup pumpkin
- 1 tablespoon orange rind, grated
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- confectioners sugar, for dusting and glaze(optional)
- orange juice, for glaze(optional)
- raisins, for decoration(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375 degrees
- 2
Blend butter, brown sugar and orange rind in mixer bowl on medium speed until well mixed
- 3
Add egg, pumpkin and vanilla and mix until nicely incorporated
- 4
Sift together flour and spices in separate bowl
- 5
Add flour mixture to mixer bowl and mix until very loose dough forms
- 6
Turn dough onto plastic wrap, form ball and wrap completely
- 7
Chill dough for 1 hour
- 8
Roll dough on surface lightly dusted with confectioners sugar to 1/4 inch thickness
- 9
Cut dough with cookie cutters into desired shapes
- 10
Place on ungreased baking sheets
- 11
Bake 10-12 minutes until golden brown on bottoms
- 12
Cool cookies on rack
- 13
Mix confectioners sugar, orange juice, cinnamon and vanilla extract for glaze while cookies are warm
- 14
Spread glaze over warm cookies
- 15
Add raisins as decorations while glaze is wet
Tips
Chill the dough fully as it starts very soft and sticky, making rolling difficult without proper chilling time.
Use confectioners sugar instead of flour for dusting to prevent tough cookies and add subtle sweetness.
Apply glaze while cookies are still warm so it sets properly and creates better adhesion for decorative toppings.
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days
Dough can be made 1 day ahead and kept chilled, or shaped cookies can be frozen before baking
Best served within 2 days of glazing for optimal texture
Common Mistakes
Chill dough fully to avoid sticky, difficult-to-roll dough
Dust with confectioners sugar instead of flour to prevent tough cookies
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make these without the glaze?
Yes, these cookies are delicious plain and have a lovely scone-like texture and spiced flavor on their own.
How long do these cookies keep?
Unglazed cookies keep for up to a week in an airtight container. Glazed cookies are best within 2-3 days.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, wrap chilled dough tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator before rolling and cutting.