Embracing the Magic of Pumpkin Season

There’s something truly special about autumn. As soon as September rolls around, and vibrant orange pumpkins begin to grace grocery store aisles, farmers’ markets, and front porches, a comforting warmth spreads through me. Pumpkin season isn’t just about a fruit; it’s a feeling, a tradition, and a beloved culinary event!

This glorious time of year invites us to savor everything pumpkin. From hearty savory dishes to decadent sweet treats, pumpkin effortlessly takes center stage, captivating palates with its earthy sweetness and versatility. Its rich flavor profile, enhanced by classic fall spices, is synonymous with cozy gatherings, festive holidays, and wholesome indulgence. It’s truly a time when pumpkin steals the limelight from every other food, and we’re all here for it!

Our Favorite Pumpkin Desserts to Celebrate Fall

Pumpkin’s adaptability shines in a variety of desserts. Whether baked into a classic pie or transformed into a creamy cheesecake, it always receives rave reviews. Here are some of our all-time favorite pumpkin desserts that you absolutely must try to truly embrace the flavors of autumn:

• Crustless Pumpkin Pie (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Pumpkin Roll (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Chocolate Pumpkin Truffles (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Moist Pumpkin Bars (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Soft, Chewy Pumpkin Cookies (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Easy Pumpkin Bread (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

Each of these recipes brings out the best of pumpkin, showcasing its potential to create truly unforgettable sweet moments for your family and friends.

What Exactly Are Crumbl Cookies? Unpacking the Sweet Phenomenon

If you’re new to the vibrant and exciting world of Crumbl cookies, prepare to be introduced to a delightful phenomenon! Crumbl Cookies is a wildly popular cookie bakery franchise renowned for its innovative approach to classic treats. What makes them so unique and beloved is their rotating menu of weekly flavors – a brilliant concept that keeps fans eagerly anticipating new delicious creations every seven days. This keeps the experience fresh and exciting, encouraging repeat visits to discover the latest cookie sensations.

Crumbl cookies are famously large, thick, and often feature an elaborate, signature frosting piped in a distinctive circular swirl. This recognizable look has become instantly iconic and is highly associated with the Crumbl brand. They frequently transform beloved cake flavors, candy bars, or classic desserts into oversized cookie versions, offering an exciting array of textures and tastes that go far beyond your average chocolate chip.

Their enormous size, unique and often surprising flavor combinations, and visually appealing frosting make them a treat for both the eyes and the palate. It’s this blend of novelty, indulgence, and shareability that has cultivated a massive following, turning a simple cookie into a weekly event and a delightful social media trend for many sweet tooth enthusiasts.

The Quest for Gluten-Free Crumbl: A Delicious Homemade Solution

While the Crumbl bakery offers an exciting array of cookies, one common question often arises: “Does Crumbl have gluten-free options?” Unfortunately, for those with celiac disease, gluten intolerance, dairy allergies, or simply choosing a gluten-free or dairy-free lifestyle, the official Crumbl bakeries do not currently offer dedicated gluten-free or dairy-free choices. This can be truly disappointing, as it means many people miss out on the fun and flavor of the Crumbl experience.

But fear not, cookie lovers! That’s precisely why we’re so thrilled to share this amazing copycat Crumbl cookie recipe. Our version is completely free of gluten and dairy, allowing everyone to enjoy those coveted, oversized cookies without worry. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy, perfectly spiced pumpkin cookie, topped with a rich, creamy frosting – all safe for your dietary needs. And what better way to celebrate the abundance of the fall season and the pumpkin harvest than by creating a homemade version of these famous pumpkin Crumbl cookies?

These delicious, dairy-free pumpkin Crumbl cookies aren’t just a substitute; they’re a standalone masterpiece designed to perfectly satisfy your sweet tooth and bring the joy of Crumbl right into your kitchen, safely, deliciously, and inclusively. Prepare to delight in every single bite!

Why This Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Pumpkin Crumbl Cookie Recipe is a Must-Try

We believe baking should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, especially when navigating dietary restrictions. This copycat gluten-free dairy-free pumpkin Crumbl cookie recipe stands out for several compelling reasons, making it a perfect choice for your fall baking adventures and a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire:

• Accessible and Simple Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt for exotic items for these easy copycat gluten-free Crumbl cookies. The main ingredients – from gluten-free flour to pumpkin puree and vegan butter – are readily available at any standard grocery store. We focus on simple, wholesome components that deliver incredible flavor and texture without any fuss, making gluten-free and dairy-free baking feel less intimidating and more approachable for everyone.
• Surprisingly Easy to Make: Despite their impressive, gourmet appearance, these pumpkin Crumbl cookies are remarkably simple to create, even for novice bakers. The process of mixing the cookie dough and shaping it into generous balls is straightforward and requires no complex techniques. And for that iconic Crumbl look, you can effortlessly pipe the frosting in a jiffy using either store-bought dairy-free frosting or your own homemade creation. We’ll guide you through each step with clear instructions, ensuring a stress-free and satisfying baking experience.
• Completely Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free: This is where our recipe truly shines and sets itself apart! We’ve meticulously crafted these copycat Crumbl cookies to be 100% gluten-free and dairy-free. This means individuals with Celiac disease, gluten intolerances, lactose intolerance, or dairy allergies can indulge in these decadent treats without any concerns or discomfort. You get all the authentic flavor, soft-chewy texture, and impressive appearance of a traditional Crumbl cookie, but with the peace of mind and inclusivity that comes from a recipe specifically designed for common dietary needs. Enjoy pure indulgence with zero compromise on taste or quality!
• Perfect Fall Flavor Profile: These cookies encapsulate the essence of autumn. The rich pumpkin, aromatic pumpkin pie spice, and creamy frosting create a harmonious blend that is both comforting and incredibly delicious. They are the ideal treat for cozy evenings, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of coffee or tea.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need for Your Gluten-Free Crumbl Cookies

Gathering your ingredients is the first exciting step towards baking these delicious pumpkin Crumbl cookies. Here’s a visual overview of what you’ll need to create this amazing gluten-free and dairy-free treat. For precise measurements and the full recipe, please refer to the detailed recipe card found towards the end of this post.

For the Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cookies:

• Vegan Butter: Essential for a rich, buttery texture and flavor, ensuring the cookies remain dairy-free.
• Salt: A small but mighty ingredient that balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• White Sugar: Provides crispness around the edges and contributes to the cookie’s structure.
• Brown Sugar: Adds moisture, chewiness, and a subtle, delightful caramel note that complements the pumpkin.
• Egg Yolk: Acts as a crucial binder, enriching the dough and contributing to a tender crumb.
• Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient, offering natural sweetness, moisture, and that unmistakable fall flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: A classic flavor enhancer that beautifully complements and deepens the pumpkin and spice notes.
• Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour: Crucial for ensuring the correct texture and structure for gluten-free baking, designed for easy 1:1 substitution.
• Baking Powder: The primary leavening agent that helps your cookies rise, making them soft and fluffy.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves) that defines the fall pumpkin experience.

For the Frosting:

• Dairy-Free Cream Cheese Frosting: For that signature creamy, tangy Crumbl topping, ensuring the entire treat is dairy-free.
• Extra Pumpkin Pie Spice: For a final festive sprinkle on top, adding both visual appeal and an intensified aroma.

Elevate Your Baking with Homemade Pumpkin Puree

While canned pumpkin puree is incredibly convenient and works perfectly fine for this recipe, there’s a certain satisfaction and often a superior, fresher flavor that comes from making your own fresh pumpkin puree. During peak pumpkin season in the fall, when pumpkins are abundant and at their freshest, I highly recommend giving it a try – it’s a game-changer for homemade baked goods!

It’s surprisingly simple to make, often more economical in the long run, and a single large pumpkin can yield several jars of puree! This means you can stock up for all your fall baking needs. Making it yourself allows you to control the consistency, ensuring it’s not too watery, and guarantees no added sugars, salts, or preservatives, resulting in a purer, more vibrant pumpkin flavor for your cookies and other dishes.

If you’re curious about the process and want to experience the difference, you can find a detailed guide on how to make homemade pumpkin puree. Trust me, once you experience the fresh taste and vibrant color, you might just prefer making your own from now on!

Recipe Notes & Essential Substitutions for Perfect Gluten-Free Cookies

To ensure your gluten-free dairy-free pumpkin Crumbl cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some important notes and substitution tips for various ingredients. Understanding these can help you adapt the recipe to your pantry or specific dietary needs:

• Vegan Butter: We use vegan butter to keep this recipe dairy-free without sacrificing flavor or texture. Brands like Miyoko’s Kitchen or Earth Balance work exceptionally well, providing a rich, buttery taste. If you don’t have vegan butter, refined coconut oil (which has a neutral flavor and a similar consistency when solidified) can be used in equal amounts. Alternatively, if dairy isn’t an issue for you, feel free to use regular unsalted butter instead. Ensure whatever fat you use is softened to room temperature for proper creaming.
• Sugar: This recipe uses a delightful combination of white sugar for crispness around the edges and brown sugar for chewiness, moisture, and a subtle caramel-like depth. You can use all white sugar or all brown sugar if preferred, but note that the texture might vary slightly (all white sugar could yield a crispier cookie, all brown a softer, chewier one). For an unrefined sugar alternative, coconut sugar works well and adds a deeper, more molasses-like flavor. If you’re managing blood sugar levels or are diabetic, I highly recommend using a 1:1 sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener, which has a zero glycemic index and won’t raise your blood sugar.
• Egg Yolk: The egg yolk is crucial for binding the ingredients together, adding richness, and contributing to the tender crumb and slight chewiness of the cookies. If you have an egg allergy or simply want to keep the recipe completely egg-free, you can substitute with 1-2 tablespoons of aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) or a commercial egg replacer. Follow the package instructions for the appropriate quantity for one egg yolk.
• Pumpkin Puree: While my homemade pumpkin puree is my top choice during the fall season for its fresh flavor, quality canned pumpkin puree is a perfectly acceptable and convenient alternative. **Crucially, always ensure you are using pure pumpkin puree and NOT pumpkin pie filling**, as pie filling contains added spices and sugars that will significantly alter the flavor balance and sweetness of the cookies.
• Vanilla Extract: A good quality vanilla extract truly enhances the overall flavor profile of these cookies, complementing the pumpkin and spices beautifully. If you’re not a fan of vanilla or don’t have it on hand, you can omit it, but it does add a lovely aromatic depth that ties all the flavors together.
• Gluten-Free Flour Blend: For the most consistent and best results, we highly recommend using a high-quality gluten-free measure-for-measure flour blend (also sometimes labeled as “1:1 gluten-free baking flour”). These blends are specifically formulated with a mix of different gluten-free flours and starches to be substituted directly for wheat flour in recipes, simplifying gluten-free baking immensely. Avoid using single-ingredient gluten-free flours like almond, coconut, or oat flour, as they have very different absorption rates and will require significant recipe adjustments.
• Baking Powder: As the sole leavening agent in this recipe, baking powder is essential for helping the cookie dough rise, creating that characteristic soft, tender, and slightly puffy texture. Always ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal results (test by mixing a small amount with water – it should fizz vigorously). If you are Celiac or highly gluten-intolerant, double-check that your baking powder is certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain corn starch.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: This fragrant blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sometimes allspice is what truly imbues these cookies with their characteristic fall warmth and festive aroma. Adding pumpkin pie spice is non-negotiable for authentic fall flavor. If you don’t have a pre-mixed spice, you can create your own by combining individual spices, or simply use ground cinnamon powder for a simpler, yet still delicious, alternative.
• Frosting: To maintain the dairy-free nature of this recipe, we use a dairy-free cream cheese frosting. Many excellent brands are available in most grocery stores in the baking aisle. Ensure it’s softened slightly for easy piping. If dairy is not a concern for you, traditional cream cheese frosting will work just as wonderfully to top these amazing pumpkin cookies, offering that classic tangy sweetness.

How to Bake Your Own Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Crumbl Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide

Get ready to create some delicious copycat gluten-free pumpkin Crumbl cookies! Follow these simple steps for perfect, bakery-style results every time. Precision in baking, especially with gluten-free recipes, ensures the best outcome, so take your time and enjoy the process.

1. Prepare Your Baking Station

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take a large baking sheet and line it completely with parchment paper. This crucial step prevents the cookies from sticking to the pan and ensures easy removal and cleanup. It also helps in achieving an even bake for your cookies.

2. Cream the Wet Ingredients for the Base

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the softened vegan butter, a pinch of salt, the brown sugar, and the granulated white sugar. Using either a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or an electric hand mixer, cream these ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and thoroughly combined. This process incorporates air into the butter and sugar, which is vital for creating a tender and soft cookie texture. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to ensure even mixing.

3. Incorporate Egg Yolk, Pumpkin Puree, and Vanilla

To the creamed butter and sugar mixture, add the single egg yolk, the rich pumpkin puree, and the fragrant vanilla extract. Continue to blend on medium speed until all these wet ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture appears smooth and consistent. The pumpkin will give the dough a beautiful orange hue. Again, don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed and no pockets of unmixed ingredients remain.

4. Gently Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time for the dry components. Add the gluten-free measure-for-measure flour blend, the aromatic pumpkin pie spice, and the baking powder to the bowl. Mix on low speed with your stand mixer or by hand using a spatula until the ingredients are just combined. It’s crucial not to overmix the dough once the flour is added, as this can lead to tougher, less tender cookies. The dough will have a soft, slightly sticky texture – this is perfectly normal and desired for these moist pumpkin cookies!

5. Scoop Generous Balls of Dough

Using a large spoon or a large cookie scoop (typically about 1/4 cup capacity), scoop out generous portions of the cookie dough. For this recipe, you should aim to create about 6 substantial balls of dough. This generous sizing mimics the famous Crumbl cookies. Ensure each scoop is relatively even in size to help them bake uniformly.

6. Place Dough Balls on Cookie Sheet and Flatten for Baking

Place the scooped dough balls in a single layer on your parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure to leave ample space (about 2-3 inches) between them as they will spread slightly during baking. Gently flatten each dough ball slightly with the palm of your hand to create a thick disc shape. Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake for approximately 13 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers appear set but still feel soft to the touch. This timing will give you that perfect soft and chewy interior texture.

7. Cool the Cookies Completely Before Frosting

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven. Allow them to cool on the hot baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature. This is an absolutely crucial step! Attempting to frost warm cookies will cause the frosting to melt, slide off, and create a messy result. Patience here is key for beautifully frosted, professional-looking Crumbl-style cookies.

8. Master the Signature Crumbl Frosting Swirl

While your cookies are cooling completely, prepare your frosting. Transfer the dairy-free cream cheese frosting to a piping bag. For that truly authentic and professional Crumbl look, we recommend using a 1A circular piping tip, which creates a perfect thick, round swirl. If you don’t have a tip, simply snip off a small corner of the piping bag to create a round opening. Starting from the very center of each cooled cookie, pipe a generous, beautiful swirl of frosting, working your way outwards in a continuous circular motion. Don’t be shy – Crumbl cookies are known for their abundant and impressive frosting!

9. The Finishing Touch: Dust with Pumpkin Pie Spice

For the grand finale, lightly and evenly dust the top of your beautifully frosted cookies with an extra sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. This adds both wonderful visual appeal, highlighting the signature Crumbl look, and an intensified aromatic burst of fall flavor. If you prefer, a dusting of cocoa powder can also offer a lovely contrast in color and a hint of chocolatey richness. Now, your homemade gluten-free dairy-free pumpkin Crumbl cookies are ready to be savored and enjoyed! Share them (if you can resist!) and watch them disappear.

Dish by Dish Tips & Creative Tricks for Your Crumbl Cookies

Here are some additional tips and creative ideas to make your gluten-free Crumbl cookie experience even better and more versatile, allowing you to customize them to your liking and explore new flavors:

• No Pumpkin Puree on Hand? No Problem! If you’re craving these delicious cookies but find yourself without pumpkin puree, don’t let that stop you! You can easily substitute the pumpkin puree with equal amounts of mashed cooked butternut squash or sweet potato puree. Both options offer a similar smooth texture and a lovely, subtly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with the warm fall spices, making them excellent stand-ins.
• Customize Your Cookie Base: Feel free to get creative and experiment with the cookie base! While our pumpkin cookie is utterly fantastic, you can also use your favorite gluten-free cookie recipe as the foundation for the Crumbl-style frosting. Consider using our gluten-free sugar cookies for a classic vanilla flavor, our flourless peanut butter cookies for a delightful nutty twist, or our gluten-free chocolate cookies for a rich, double chocolate treat. Then, simply pipe the delicious dairy-free frosting on top to achieve that signature Crumbl look.
• Achieving the Perfect Frosting Swirl: For that truly authentic Crumbl aesthetic, with its impressive, thick, and lofty frosting swirl, we highly recommend using a 1A circular piping tip. This large round tip is perfect for creating those generous, uniform spirals. However, if you don’t have one readily available, don’t worry! Simply transfer your softened dairy-free frosting to a sturdy piping bag (or a strong zip-top bag), snip off a small corner to create an opening, and pipe your swirls. The taste will be just as amazing, even if the shape is slightly less perfect.
• Vary the Toppings: While pumpkin pie spice is a classic and wonderful topping, don’t hesitate to experiment with other additions to elevate your cookies! A light drizzle of dairy-free caramel sauce, a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or walnuts, a dusting of cinnamon sugar, or even a few miniature dairy-free chocolate chips can add extra flair, texture, and flavor, making each cookie unique.
• Chilling the Dough (Optional): If your cookie dough feels particularly soft or sticky, especially if your kitchen is warm, you can lightly chill it. Simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes before scooping. This can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking and make the dough easier to handle and shape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Gluten-Free Crumbl Cookies

Other Gluten-Free Cookie Recipes You’ll Love:

More Delicious Pumpkin Recipes to Enjoy:

P.S. We genuinely hope you try and love this recipe! If you do, please consider leaving a star rating below and a review in the comment section. Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us and helps other bakers. Don’t forget to explore our entire Recipe Index for more delicious creations and culinary inspiration. You can also follow us on Pinterest, Facebook, or Instagram for daily inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses! And for fresh recipes delivered straight to your inbox each week, be sure to sign up for our Email List!

Recipe Card: Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Pumpkin Crumbl Cookies

This section provides a quick, printable summary of the recipe for your convenience, ensuring you have all the essential details at your fingertips.

Print Recipe

Recipe At A Glance:

• Author: Felicia Lim
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 13 minutes
• Yield: 6 large cookies
• Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
• Category: Cookies
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cookies:

• 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (pure, not pie filling)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 2/3 cup gluten-free measure for measure flour blend
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

For the Frosting:

• 1 1/2 cups dairy-free cream cheese frosting, softened
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Preheat and Line: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the vegan butter, salt, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg yolk, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
4. Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the gluten-free flour, pumpkin pie spice, and baking powder until just combined and a soft, slightly sticky cookie dough forms.
5. Scoop Dough: Use a large spoon or cookie scoop to create 6 large balls of dough.
6. Flatten and Bake: Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, flatten slightly, and bake for 13 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool Completely: Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Pipe Frosting: Once cookies are fully cooled, fill a piping bag (with a 1A circular tip or snipped corner) with dairy-free frosting. Pipe a large, generous swirl of frosting on top of each cookie.
9. Dust with Spice: Lightly dust the frosted cookies with extra pumpkin pie spice and serve immediately.

Chef’s Notes & Pro-Tips:

• Vegan Butter: Coconut oil or regular unsalted butter can be used as alternatives.
• Sugar: Adjust the ratio of white/brown sugar to your preference, or use coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener for different dietary needs.
• Egg Yolk: For an egg-free version, use aquafaba (1-2 tbsp) or a commercial egg replacer.
• Pumpkin Puree: Always use pure pumpkin puree; avoid pumpkin pie filling. Homemade puree is also an excellent option.
• Gluten-Free Flour: For best results, always use a high-quality “measure-for-measure” or “1:1” gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh and gluten-free if required.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: If unavailable, a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, or simply ground cinnamon powder, can be used.
• Frosting: If dairy is not a concern, traditional cream cheese frosting works perfectly.
• Storing: Store these frosted cookies in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.