Save A festive assortment of rich fudge and spiced cookies, perfect for sharing at Thanksgiving gatherings. This cookie tray brings together seasonal flavors and textures, making it the star of every dessert table.
I always prepare this cookie tray for Thanksgiving because everyone enjoys having a variety of sweets to choose from. Sharing these homemade treats with family and friends has become a cherished tradition at our gatherings.
Ingredients
- Fudge Layer: 1 ½ cups (255 g) semisweet chocolate chips, 1 (397 g) can sweetened condensed milk, 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter, ½ tsp vanilla extract, Pinch of salt
- Pumpkin Spice Cookies: 1 ¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp salt, 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon, ¼ tsp ground nutmeg, ¼ tsp ground ginger, ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter softened, ¾ cup (150 g) brown sugar packed, 1 large egg, ¾ cup (180 g) pumpkin purée, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pecan Shortbread Cookies: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter softened, ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar, 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, ½ tsp salt, 1 cup (120 g) pecans finely chopped, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Garnishes (Optional): ¼ cup (30 g) mini marshmallows, ¼ cup (30 g) dried cranberries, ¼ cup (30 g) chopped pecans, 2 tbsp (20 g) white chocolate chips melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Fudge Layer:
- Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper. In a saucepan over low heat, combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and salt. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla. Pour into prepared pan, spreading evenly. Chill in refrigerator until firm (at least 2 hours), then cut into 1-inch squares.
- Make Pumpkin Spice Cookies:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. In another bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in egg, pumpkin purée, and vanilla. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until just combined. Drop tablespoonfuls onto baking sheet. Bake 10,12 minutes until edges are set. Cool on rack.
- Make Pecan Shortbread Cookies:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line another baking sheet with parchment. Cream butter and powdered sugar until light. Add vanilla. Stir in flour and salt until a dough forms. Mix in chopped pecans. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, place on baking sheet, flatten gently. Bake 12,14 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely.
- Assemble the Cookie Tray:
- Arrange fudge squares, pumpkin spice cookies, and pecan shortbread cookies on a large platter or tray. Garnish with mini marshmallows, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and drizzle with melted white chocolate as desired.
Save Sharing this cookie tray with my family always sparks conversation and laughter around the table. It's a simple way to make the holiday feel extra special for everyone.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer, baking sheets, parchment paper, saucepan, spatula, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains milk, eggs, wheat (gluten), pecans (tree nuts), and soy (in chocolate chips). Always double-check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 140, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 18 g, Protein: 2 g per serving (approx. 1 cookie)
Save Bring this tray to your next holiday party, and watch it disappear fast! Everyone loves the delicious variety in every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute walnuts for pecans in the shortbread?
Yes, walnuts make a great substitute. They'll provide similar texture and complement the buttery dough well.
- → How should I store the cookie tray?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain freshness.
- → Are there optional garnishes I can add?
Absolutely! Mini marshmallows, dried cranberries, extra pecans, or drizzled white chocolate all add festive flair.
- → What dietary allergens are present?
This assortment contains milk, eggs, wheat (gluten), pecans (tree nuts), and soy from the chocolate chips.
- → How do I know when the cookies are baked?
Look for set edges and just golden color. Allow cookies to cool on a rack for perfect texture and flavor.
- → Can I add other types of cookies to the tray?
Yes, leaf-shaped sugar cookies or chocolate-dipped pretzels can be added for extra variety and festive presentation.