Jack-O’-Lantern Sandwich Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun, festive, and absolutely delicious treat to celebrate the season, then you’re in for a real treat with my Jack-O’-Lantern Sandwich Cookies Recipe. These cookies don’t just taste amazing — they’re perfect for Halloween parties, cozy fall afternoons, or whenever you want to impress with a little seasonal charm. I promise, once you try this recipe, you’ll keep coming back to it year after year.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to create that tender, fragrant cookie dough and a luscious cream cheese filling that complements the fall flavors perfectly. When shopping, I recommend using fresh pumpkin puree and real vanilla extract — it really makes a difference you’ll notice in every bite.

• All-purpose flour: The base of the dough — make sure it’s fresh to avoid off flavors.
• Pumpkin spice: The magic blend that brings warm, cozy notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
• Baking powder: For that perfect lift to keep the cookies tender, not dense.
• Kosher salt: Just a pinch to enhance sweetness and flavor balance.
• Butter: Softened and creamy, it helps create that tender texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough with a slight crunch that balances brown sugar.
• Brown sugar: Adds moisture and gives a subtle caramel flavor.
• Egg: Acts as a binder, bringing everything together.
• Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient for flavor and moisture — I use canned pumpkin for consistency.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all of the flavors for a rounded taste.
• Cream cheese: For the frosting — softened for easy mixing and creamy texture.
• Powdered sugar: To sweeten the frosting without grit.

Variations

I love baking these Jack-O’-Lantern Sandwich Cookies Recipe as is, but I also encourage you to make them your own by trying different tweaks — it’s so fun to experiment and find what suits your taste best!

• Spice it up: Try adding a bit of ground ginger or cloves to the pumpkin spice mix for a warmer, spicier cookie. I once did this for a family gathering and everyone raved about the extra depth.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute vegan butter and use a dairy-free cream cheese to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Orange food coloring: A few drops in the dough or frosting can give that vibrant pumpkin look — perfect if you’re baking with kids who love bright colors.
• Nutty twist: Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for a little crunch and nutty flavor.

How to Make Jack-O’-Lantern Sandwich Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

Start by combining your flour, pumpkin spice, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Give them a good whisk to evenly distribute the spices and leavening. This step is key because it sets the stage for the deliciously balanced dough you want. I always like to sift the flour for extra lightness, but it’s totally optional.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until it looks creamy and fluffy — this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes with a hand mixer. The first time I did this, I underestimated how important this step is, but it really builds the perfect texture. Then, beat in the egg, followed by pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, making sure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Mix and Chill the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and beat just until combined — don’t overmix or the cookies might get tough. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days. I learned that chilling is crucial; it makes rolling out the dough so much easier and helps the cookies keep their shape.

Step 4: Roll, Cut, and Chill Again

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. On a floured surface, roll out one dough disc to about ¼ inch thick. Use your pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared sheets. Re-roll the scraps and cut more. Then, pop the sheets in the freezer for 15 minutes — this step prevents spreading so the jack-o’-lantern shapes stay crisp and perfect.

Step 5: Carve Faces and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Using a small paring knife, cut out jack-o’-lantern faces from half of the cookies. If the dough gets too soft while carving, pop the tray back in the freezer for a few more minutes to make it easier. Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes until they’re set but not browned. Let them cool completely on a wire rack — patience here rewards you with the best texture!

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cookies cool, whip up the frosting by beating the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of kosher salt — trust me on the salt, it really wakes up the frosting flavors. Give everything one last mix and your creamy filling is ready.

Step 7: Assemble Your Jack-O’-Lantern Sandwich Cookies

Flip the uncut cookies over and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on the flat sides. Then, top each with a face-cut cookie, gently pressing to sandwich them together. I love how these look like tiny pumpkin lanterns come to life — the perfect party showstopper.

How to Serve Jack-O’-Lantern Sandwich Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a little edible glitter or orange sanding sugar on the frosting edges to make these cookies pop visually—it brings a little extra sparkle and whimsy that kids adore. Sometimes, I add tiny green royal icing “stems” for an extra fun detail.

Side Dishes

These sandwich cookies are perfect on their own, but if you’re serving them at a party, pairing with a warm cup of spiced cider, chai tea, or a rich hot chocolate makes the experience extra cozy. They also pair beautifully alongside lighter fruit plates or cheese boards for a balanced snack table.

Creative Ways to Present

I once created a Halloween platter using mini pumpkin-shaped plates and surrounded the cookies with autumn leaves and small gourds for a charming seasonal display. You could also wrap them individually in cellophane tied with orange ribbon for cute party favors or gifts that guests will treasure.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover Jack-O’-Lantern Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, storing them in the fridge helps keep the cream cheese frosting firm and fresh — just bring them back to room temp before serving to enjoy the best flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze baked and assembled sandwich cookies by wrapping each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then let come to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Since these cookies are best enjoyed at room temp, I recommend no reheating—just let frozen or refrigerated cookies sit out for about 20 minutes before eating. This lets the frosting soften nicely and brings back that tender texture you love.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Jack-O’-Lantern Sandwich Cookies Recipe turns out every single time — the tender pumpkin dough, cozy spice, and tangy cream cheese frosting all come together in a way that feels like a warm autumn hug. When I first tried making them, I was amazed at how festive and delicious they looked without being complicated. Now, they’re a go-to for any seasonal celebration in my home, and I’m sure once you give them a try, you’ll be making them too. So grab your rolling pin and pumpkin cutter, and have fun baking these charming treats with your favorite people!

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