Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect fall treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Their soft, pillowy texture combined with creamy frosting makes them irresistible. Whether for a family gathering, a cozy night in, or a festive celebration, these cookies will surely delight everyone. Plus, they are easy to whip up, making them a go-to dessert for busy bakers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, inviting taste that captures the essence of autumn.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress with these cookies.
• Frosted Delight: The cream cheese frosting adds an extra layer of richness that perfectly complements the soft cookies.
• Versatile Occasions: These cookies are great for any event, from casual get-togethers to holiday parties.
• Batch Ready: This recipe yields 30 cookies, ensuring you have plenty to share—or keep all to yourself!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools save time and ensure your butter and sugars are whipped perfectly.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients helps achieve better texture in your dough.
• Baking sheet: A quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

To make these delicious pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, gather the following ingredients:

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)

How to Make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Pumpkin pie spice

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), combine:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar
3. Light brown sugar

Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes. Then add:
– Canned pumpkin puree
– Egg
– Vanilla extract

Mix until fully combined, scraping down the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined; expect a slightly sticky dough.

Step 5: Scoop Cookies onto Baking Sheet

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake at 350° F for 13 to 15 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft. Allow cooling on the pan for several minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

For frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter together on medium-high speed until smooth—around 30 seconds. Add:
– Vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar

Mix again just until combined—about another 30 seconds.

Step 8: Frost Cookies and Serve

Once cookies are cooled, use an offset spatula or knife to frost them generously with cream cheese frosting. Optionally garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.

Enjoy these delightful pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting as part of your seasonal celebrations!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can elevate any occasion. These soft and flavorful cookies are perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply as a delightful treat at home.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee for a cozy experience.
• Tea: Enjoy them with a soothing herbal or chai tea for a comforting afternoon snack.
• Hot Chocolate: A rich hot chocolate complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

At Dessert Tables

• Potluck Treat: Bring these cookies to potlucks; they are sure to be a hit among guests.
• Holiday Gatherings: Their festive flavors make them ideal for Thanksgiving and Christmas dessert spreads.

For Gifting

• Cookie Jars: Package them in decorative jars as gifts for friends and family.
• Party Favors: Wrap individual cookies in cellophane for party favors at celebrations.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Creating the perfect pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and tender.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): If your dough is too sticky, chill it for 30 minutes before baking for easier handling.
• Check Doneness Carefully: The edges should be set while the centers remain soft. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
• Customize Your Frosting: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the frosting for an extra flavor boost.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with pumpkin cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options that complement these sweet treats.

1. Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted almonds or pecans adds a crunchy contrast to soft cookies.
2. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit brings brightness and balances sweetness; consider apples or citrus fruits.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda, which pair nicely with sweet flavors.
4. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup creates a cohesive fall-inspired menu that’s comforting.
5. Ice Cream: Serve alongside vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert pairing.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing option that complements the richness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can lead to a dense texture. Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
• Boldly underestimate the baking time: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time if necessary to avoid underbaking or overbaking.
• Boldly ignore the chilling step: Letting the cookies cool completely before frosting is crucial. If you frost them too soon, the frosting can melt and run off.
• Boldly overlook ingredient sifting: Not sifting flour can result in clumpy dough. Always sift your dry ingredients for a smoother mixture.
• Boldly overmix the batter: Mixing too much can toughen the cookies. Mix just until everything is combined for soft, fluffy pumpkin cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat the cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat as it may melt the frosting.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, placing a lid over it. Heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, here are some common questions answered.

How do I make my pumpkin cookies more flavorful?

Adding extra spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance flavor. Consider including chocolate chips or nuts for added variety.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works well; just ensure it’s smooth and well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

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

If your frosting is too runny, gradually add more sifted confectioners’ sugar until you reach the desired consistency.

How long do these pumpkin cookies last?

When stored properly, these pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting last up to 5 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or additional spices. They make a great treat for any occasion, so give this recipe a try!