Step 1

For the cookie dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the butter, brown sugar, pumpkin puree and vanilla until well combined.

Step 2

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt and baking powder.

Step 3

Add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture and stir until all the dry ingredients are well mixed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate until the dough is firm, at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Step 5

For the spiced sugar: Stir together the granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice in a small bowl.

Step 6

Scoop the dough into balls, about 2 tablespoons each. Roll each ball in the spiced sugar until well coated and arrange at least 2-inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 7

Bake until the cookies are puffed, set around the edges and begin to crack on top, 11 to 13 minutes. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, about 30 minutes.