Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall, then these Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are just what you need! They are soft, flavorful, and oh-so-delicious. Imagine coming home after a long day, the aroma of pumpkin spice filling the air as these cookies bake in your oven. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and they always seem to bring everyone together around the kitchen table.

What truly makes this recipe special is not just how easy it is to make, but also how every bite feels like a cozy hug. The cream cheese frosting adds that extra touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the warm spices. Trust me; once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in no time, making them perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves these soft pumpkin cookies! They are sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake these cookies ahead of time and frost them when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously Soft Texture: Each cookie is pillowy soft, making them melt in your mouth with every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a cozy night in, these cookies fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these delightful Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Let’s gather everything you need for this delicious treat!

For the Cookies:

• 2 1/2 cups (312 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (plus extra for sprinkling)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100 g) packed light brown sugar
• 1 1/4 cups (305 g) canned pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces (226 g) block-style cream cheese (softened but still cool)
• ¼ cup (56 g) unsalted butter (softened but still cool)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups (210 g) confectioners’ sugar (sifted)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch!
• Swap the Frosting: Try using a maple glaze instead of cream cheese frosting for a different flavor experience.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful surprise.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.

How to Make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This preparation helps ensure even baking and prevents sticking, making clean-up easier later on.

Step 2: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. This step combines all your dry ingredients evenly so that every cookie gets that wonderful spiced flavor.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer or using a hand mixer, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed until it’s light and fluffy—this usually takes about three minutes. Next, add in the pumpkin purée, egg, and vanilla extract. Mixing them well ensures that your cookies stay moist and flavorful!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Gently mix until just combined—the dough will be slightly sticky but that’s exactly what we want for soft cookies.

Step 5: Scoop Your Cookies

Using a medium cookie scoop or a spoon, scoop out heaping tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them about two inches apart so they have room to spread while baking.

Step 6: Bake Them Up

Place your cookie sheet in the oven and bake at 350° F for about 13 to 15 minutes. The edges should be set while keeping that soft center intact. Allow them to cool on the pan briefly before transferring them to a wire rack—this step helps them firm up while keeping their tenderness.

Step 7: Make Your Frosting

For the cream cheese frosting, beat together softened cream cheese and butter on medium-high speed until smooth. Then add vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar; mix until combined. This creamy frosting is what takes these cookies over-the-top delicious!

Step 8: Frost Your Cookies

Once your cookies have cooled completely, use an off-set spatula or knife to spread frosting over each one generously. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top gives them an extra touch of warmth and flavor!

And there you go! Enjoy every bite of these lovely Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Creating the perfect pumpkin cookies is all about attention to detail, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works wonderfully, using fresh pumpkin can enhance the flavor and moisture of your cookies. If you have access to fresh pumpkins, roasting and pureeing them can elevate your cookie game.

• Chill your dough: If you’re facing a warm kitchen or sticky dough, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can make it easier to scoop and shape. This helps maintain the cookies’ shape during baking.

• Don’t overbake: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake! They should be soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool, ensuring that perfect chewy texture.

• Let them cool completely before frosting: For a smooth application of cream cheese frosting, allow your cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.

• Experiment with spices: While pumpkin pie spice adds a lovely warmth, feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger. A little twist can personalize your cookie recipe even more!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delightful cookies not only taste amazing but also look wonderful when presented well! Here are some ideas on how to serve them at your next gathering or cozy night in.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of ground cinnamon adds an extra layer of flavor and makes your cookies visually appealing.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped nuts on top of the frosting for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin nicely.
• Mini chocolate chips: For a touch of sweetness, consider adding mini chocolate chips as a garnish. They add both visual appeal and deliciousness!

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: The warm spices in hot apple cider pair beautifully with pumpkin flavors, creating a comforting fall treat.
• Creamy vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside these cookies creates a delightful contrast between warm and cold while enhancing the overall dessert experience.
• Spiced chai tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea harmonize perfectly with the flavors of pumpkin and cream cheese frosting, making it an excellent pairing for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Caramel dip with sliced apples: Fresh apple slices dipped in caramel offer a sweet, crunchy side that balances out the soft texture of the cookies while bringing another layer of flavor into the mix.

Enjoy making and sharing these Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or just for yourself while enjoying some quiet time.

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are perfect for meal prep! You can bake them ahead of time, store them properly, and enjoy their deliciousness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze cookies, let them cool completely.
• Arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350° F.
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes until just heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for 10-15 seconds if you prefer a softer texture.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delightful pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth. Drain any excess moisture to prevent the cookies from becoming too wet.

How do I make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?

You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s one that can be used as a 1:1 replacement for best results.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Pumpkin Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture. Just be aware that this may slightly change the baking time.

How can I prevent my Pumpkin Cookies from spreading too much?

To prevent spreading, chill your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before scooping it onto the baking sheet. This helps maintain their shape while baking.

What should I do if my cream cheese frosting is too thick?

If your cream cheese frosting turns out too thick, simply add a teaspoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Mix well after each addition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making these scrumptious pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting! They’re not only soft and flavorful but also an absolute joy to share with friends and family. Whether it’s fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home, these cookies will surely brighten your day. Enjoy every moment of baking—and don’t forget to savor each bite!