Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to brighten your day, these Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are just the thing! Soft, pillowy, and bursting with that warm, spiced pumpkin flavor, they truly melt in your mouth. This recipe has been a favorite in my family for years. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, these cookies always bring smiles to the table.

What makes them extra special is not just their delightful taste but also the creamy frosting that elevates them to another level of deliciousness. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe on hand for all occasions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for any last-minute dessert cravings.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore the soft texture and flavorful frosting that makes these cookies irresistible.
• Make-Ahead Delight: Bake a batch ahead of time, frost them when you’re ready, and enjoy freshly frosted cookies whenever you want!
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or simply as an afternoon snack with your favorite cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to whip up these delightful cookies! You probably already have many of these staples in your kitchen.

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 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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you love or have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to customize the cookie flavor.
• Chocolate Chunks: For a sweet twist, add chocolate chips to the dough before baking!
• Cream Cheese Swirl: Instead of frosting, swirl softened cream cheese into the cookie dough before baking for a marbled effect.

How to Make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy every time. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your cookies won’t stick!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. This step helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour, ensuring every bite is light and airy.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of a stand mixer or using a hand mixer, beat together the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy—about three minutes. This process incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies tender.

Step 4: Add Pumpkin and Egg

Now it’s time to mix in the canned pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat until everything is well combined. Scraping down the sides of the bowl ensures no ingredients are left unblended—this guarantees each cookie gets that wonderful pumpkin flavor!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in your flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a slightly sticky dough that holds its shape but isn’t too tough.

Step 6: Scoop onto Baking Sheet

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them about two inches apart; they will spread slightly while baking.

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 13 to 15 minutes. The edges should be set while still soft inside—this ensures they stay chewy! Let them cool on the pan briefly before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cookies are cooling, it’s time to make that delectable cream cheese frosting! Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Then add vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar until well combined. This frosting is creamy perfection!

Step 9: Frost Your Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cool, use an offset spatula or knife to generously frost each one. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds an extra touch of warmth—you’ll want to dig right in!

Enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting as a special treat any day of the year!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Baking can be a fun adventure, and these tips will help you create the most delightful pumpkin cookies that are sure to impress!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, egg, and cream cheese to room temperature allows for better mixing and ensures a smoother texture in both the cookies and frosting.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined is key to keeping your cookies soft and pillowy. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies due to gluten development.

• Adjust baking time as needed: Every oven is unique! Keep an eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking. They should be set at the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.

• Let cookies cool completely before frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting into the warm cookies, keeping your frosting beautifully intact and adding that perfect creamy layer.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to your dough for added depth of flavor. This can really elevate the taste of your pumpkin cookies!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Presentation is everything, especially when it comes to sharing your delicious treats! Here are some ideas on how to serve these scrumptious pumpkin cookies:

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top of the frosted cookies adds a lovely warmth and enhances their fall flavors.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top for an extra crunch that complements the soft cookie texture.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: A warm cup of apple cider brings out the cozy autumn vibes and pairs perfectly with the sweetness of pumpkin cookies.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serving your cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast between warm and cold, enhancing the overall experience.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad can balance out the richness of the cookies while offering a refreshing complement to their flavors.
• Spiced tea: A warm cup of chai or spiced tea will harmonize beautifully with these pumpkin delights, creating a comforting and inviting dessert experience.

Enjoy sharing these delightful pumpkin cookies with friends and family, making every bite count!

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed throughout the week. Here’s how to store and enjoy them later!

Storing Leftovers

• Store your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate them for up to a week; just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• Freeze un-frosted cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they will keep well for up to 3 months.
• For frosted cookies, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place in a container.

Reheating

• To reheat, place cookies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in an oven preheated to 350° F for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting.

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

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin until smooth. Drain any excess moisture before using it in your cookie dough.

How should I store Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store your frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I make these Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

How long do Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting last?

These cookies stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week if refrigerated. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy baking these delightful pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting as much as I do! They are not only soft and flavorful but also bring a lovely touch of fall into your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them yourself, these treats are sure to brighten your day. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!