Beyond Cookies: Creative Recipes with Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix
The arrival of fall signals the return of pumpkin spice everything, and Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix is a highly anticipated seasonal favorite. While baking classic snickerdoodles is undoubtedly delicious, this mix offers so much more potential. Let’s explore a variety of creative and exciting recipes that go beyond the traditional cookie, unlocking the full potential of this versatile mix.
## Understanding the Magic of Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s appreciate what makes this mix so special. It’s a perfectly balanced blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, combined with the warm, comforting flavor of pumpkin. The texture is designed to create soft and chewy snickerdoodles, but the flavor profile lends itself beautifully to a wide range of desserts and even savory applications. It’s more than just a cookie mix; it’s a shortcut to pumpkin spice perfection.
## Recipe 1: Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Blondies
These blondies offer a chewy, fudgy alternative to traditional cookies. The pumpkin spice flavor is intensified with a touch of molasses, creating a deeply satisfying treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 large egg
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 tablespoon molasses
* 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, milk, and molasses until well combined.
3. **Add Cookie Mix:** Gradually add the Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. **Fold in Mix-Ins (Optional):** Gently fold in the white chocolate chips and chopped nuts, if using.
5. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. The edges should be golden brown.
7. **Cool and Cut:** Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a fudgier texture, slightly underbake the blondies.
* Add a swirl of pumpkin puree on top before baking for a more intense pumpkin flavor.
* Substitute dark chocolate chips for white chocolate chips.
* Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top after baking to enhance the sweetness.
## Recipe 2: Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Scones
These scones are perfect for a cozy fall breakfast or afternoon tea. The cookie mix provides a shortcut to delicious pumpkin spice flavor, and the addition of buttermilk creates a tender, crumbly texture.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
* 1/2 cup buttermilk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix.
3. **Cut in Butter:** Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. **Add Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. **Shape and Cut:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat the dough into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut the dough into 8 wedges or desired shapes.
6. **Prepare Topping:** In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
7. **Brush and Sprinkle:** Brush the tops of the scones with a little extra buttermilk or milk, and then sprinkle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown.
9. **Cool:** Let the scones cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For extra flavor, add 1/4 cup of dried cranberries or chopped walnuts to the dough.
* Serve the scones with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup.
* Freeze the scones before baking for a convenient make-ahead breakfast.
## Recipe 3: Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Pancakes
These pancakes are a festive and flavorful way to start your day. The cookie mix adds a delightful pumpkin spice flavor and a hint of sweetness, making them a family favorite.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix
* 1 large egg
* 1 cup milk
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Butter or oil, for greasing the griddle
* Maple syrup, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix, egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until just combined. Do not overmix. A few lumps are okay.
2. **Heat Griddle:** Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat.
3. **Pour Batter:** Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake.
4. **Cook:** Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip the pancakes when bubbles start to form on the surface.
5. **Serve:** Serve the pancakes immediately with maple syrup and your favorite toppings.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree to the batter for a more intense pumpkin flavor.
* Top the pancakes with whipped cream, chopped pecans, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
* Use almond milk or soy milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option.
## Recipe 4: Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Mug Cake
This single-serving mug cake is the perfect solution for a quick and easy pumpkin spice fix. It’s ready in minutes and requires minimal cleanup.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix
* 3 tablespoons milk
* 1 tablespoon melted butter
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a microwave-safe mug, combine the Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.
2. **Microwave:** Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, or until the cake is cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on your microwave.
3. **Cool Slightly:** Let the mug cake cool for a minute before serving.
4. **Serve:** Top with whipped cream, ice cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a tablespoon of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter before microwaving.
* Drizzle with caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar.
* For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk.
## Recipe 5: Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle French Toast Casserole
This casserole is perfect for a weekend brunch or holiday gathering. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and bakes up into a warm, comforting treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 loaf of challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix
* 1 cup milk
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 4 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 cup melted butter
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Bread:** Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and let them dry out overnight, or bake them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 15-20 minutes.
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix, milk, heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. **Soak Bread:** Place the dried bread cubes in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the wet ingredients over the bread, making sure to soak all the pieces. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid.
4. **Prepare Topping:** In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and chopped nuts.
5. **Sprinkle Topping:** Sprinkle the topping evenly over the bread mixture.
6. **Refrigerate (Optional):** Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight.
7. **Bake:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
8. **Cool Slightly:** Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a layer of cream cheese between the bread and the custard for a richer flavor.
* Use different types of bread, such as croissants or sourdough.
* Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
## Recipe 6: Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Coffee Cake
A delightful coffee cake that incorporates the warmth of pumpkin spice snickerdoodle flavor is perfect for a brunch gathering or a comforting dessert. It’s surprisingly easy to make with the help of the Trader Joe’s mix.
**Ingredients:**
**For the Cake:**
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**For the Crumb Topping:**
* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan or a regular cake pan.
2. **Prepare Crumb Topping:** In a medium bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of cookie mix for the topping with the cold butter. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the mix until it forms coarse crumbs. Stir in the nuts, if using. Set aside.
3. **Make the Cake Batter:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and the cookie mix for the cake until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract.
4. **Assemble and Bake:** Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the crumb topping evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the crumb topping, and then sprinkle the remaining crumb topping over the top.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. **Cool:** Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before removing it to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a swirl of pumpkin butter to the batter for an even richer pumpkin flavor.
* Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a prettier presentation.
* Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangier flavor.
## Recipe 7: Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Ice Cream Sandwiches
These ice cream sandwiches are a fun and festive way to enjoy the pumpkin spice flavor. They are perfect for a party or a special treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix (prepared according to package instructions)
* 1 pint of your favorite ice cream (vanilla, pumpkin, or cinnamon work well)
**Instructions:**
1. **Bake Cookies:** Prepare the cookie dough according to the package instructions. Bake the cookies and let them cool completely.
2. **Soften Ice Cream:** Let the ice cream soften slightly at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
3. **Assemble Sandwiches:** Place a scoop of ice cream on the bottom of one cookie. Top with another cookie, pressing down gently to spread the ice cream evenly to the edges.
4. **Freeze:** Wrap each ice cream sandwich individually in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 30 minutes to allow the ice cream to firm up.
5. **Serve:** Enjoy your delicious pumpkin spice snickerdoodle ice cream sandwiches!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Roll the edges of the ice cream sandwiches in sprinkles, chopped nuts, or mini chocolate chips.
* Use different flavors of ice cream to create a variety of sandwiches.
* Make mini ice cream sandwiches using smaller cookies.
## Recipe 8: Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Biscotti
Twice-baked biscotti infused with pumpkin spice is perfect with your morning coffee or as a sophisticated dessert. This biscotti maintains a delightful crunch and a subtly sweet flavor profile.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix
* 2 large eggs
* 1/4 cup melted butter
* 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but enhances the flavor)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cookie mix, eggs, melted butter, and almond extract (if using). Mix until a dough forms.
3. **Shape into Log:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into a log approximately 12 inches long and 2 inches wide.
4. **First Bake:** Place the log on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until lightly golden brown and firm to the touch.
5. **Cool and Slice:** Remove the log from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 10 minutes. Then, using a serrated knife, slice the log diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices.
6. **Second Bake:** Arrange the biscotti slices cut-side up on the baking sheet. Bake for another 8-10 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.
7. **Cool Completely:** Let the biscotti cool completely on the baking sheet before serving or storing.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Dip the cooled biscotti in melted chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
* Add chopped nuts or dried cranberries to the dough for added texture and flavor.
* Store the biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
## Recipe 9: Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars
These cheesecake bars are a creamy, dreamy dessert with a delicious pumpkin spice twist. The snickerdoodle cookie mix makes a perfect crust.
**Ingredients:**
**For the Crust:**
* 1/2 box Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
**For the Cheesecake Filling:**
* 16 ounces (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1/4 cup sour cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
2. **Make the Crust:** In a medium bowl, combine the cookie mix and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
3. **Bake Crust:** Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
4. **Make the Filling:** In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree.
5. **Pour and Bake:** Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
6. **Cool and Chill:** Let the cheesecake bars cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before cutting into squares.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Swirl a tablespoon of pumpkin butter or caramel sauce into the cheesecake filling before baking.
* Top the cheesecake bars with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
* Add a layer of gingersnap crumbs to the crust for extra flavor and texture.
## Recipe 10: Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies)
This sweet and crunchy snack mix is a perfect fall treat. It’s incredibly easy to make and is always a crowd-pleaser.
**Ingredients:**
* 9 cups Rice Chex cereal
* 1 cup white chocolate chips
* 1/2 cup peanut butter
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 1/2 cups Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix
* 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Cereal:** Pour the Rice Chex cereal into a large bowl.
2. **Melt Chocolate Mixture:** In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. **Coat Cereal:** Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal and stir gently until all the cereal is evenly coated.
4. **Coat with Cookie Mix:** Place the cookie mix and powdered sugar (if using) in a large resealable plastic bag. Add the coated cereal to the bag. Seal the bag and shake well until all the cereal is coated with the cookie mix and powdered sugar.
5. **Cool and Store:** Spread the puppy chow in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it cool completely before serving or storing in an airtight container.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free option.
* Add mini marshmallows or pretzel pieces to the cereal for extra flavor and texture.
* Store the puppy chow in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
## Beyond Recipes: Creative Ways to Use the Mix
Beyond these specific recipes, here are some other fun and creative ways to incorporate Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix into your fall baking:
* **Cookie Bars:** Press the cookie dough into a pan and bake as cookie bars. Top with a cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
* **Waffles:** Add a few tablespoons of the cookie mix to your waffle batter for a pumpkin spice twist.
* **Muffins:** Incorporate the mix into your favorite muffin recipe for added flavor and texture.
* **Pie Crust:** Use the cookie mix as a base for a crumb crust for pies.
* **Trail Mix Addition:** Add crumbled baked snickerdoodles to your favorite trail mix.
* **Sprinkled on Oatmeal:** Crumble a baked cookie or two on top of your morning oatmeal for a fall-flavored treat.
## Final Thoughts
Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Cookie Mix is more than just a simple cookie ingredient. With a little creativity, you can transform this seasonal favorite into a variety of delicious and impressive desserts. From blondies and scones to pancakes and cheesecake bars, the possibilities are endless. So grab a box (or two!) and start experimenting. Happy baking!