These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that brings warmth and flavor to any occasion. Whether you are hosting a fall gathering or simply craving a sweet snack, these cookies offer a soft texture and rich taste that will make them a favorite. The creamy frosting adds an extra layer of indulgence, making them perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create these delicious cookies.
- Pillowy Soft Texture: Each bite of these cookies melts in your mouth, thanks to the perfect blend of pumpkin puree and creamy frosting.
- Versatile for Occasions: Ideal for holiday parties, bake sales, or just a cozy afternoon treat with friends and family.
- Flavorful Spice Profile: The addition of pumpkin pie spice brings warmth and depth to these cookies, making them a seasonal favorite.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to sprinkle on some chopped nuts or chocolate chips before baking for an added crunch!
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: These tools help achieve the fluffy texture needed by thoroughly mixing the butter and sugars.
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking, resulting in perfectly baked cookies every time.
- Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Wire Rack: A wire rack allows cookies to cool properly without becoming soggy.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create these scrumptious pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting:
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 (1 brick or 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 the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following:
1. Flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Pumpkin pie spice
Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In your stand mixer bowl, beat together:
– Unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix on medium-high speed until light and fluffy for about 3 minutes.
Add in:
– Pumpkin puree,
– Egg,
– Vanilla extract.
Mix until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl if necessary.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the flour mixture to your wet ingredients. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix as the dough will be sticky and soft.
Step 5: Scoop Cookies onto Baking Sheet
Use a medium cookie scoop or spoon to drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes or until edges are set but cookies remain soft. Allow them to cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 7: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
In another mixing bowl, beat together:
– Cream cheese and butter. Mix on medium-high speed until smooth, about 30 seconds.
Then add:
– Vanilla extract,
– Confectioners’ sugar.
Mix again until just combined.
Step 8: Frost Cookies
Once cooled, use an off-set spatula or knife to frost each cookie generously with cream cheese frosting. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
Enjoy these delightful pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting at any time!
How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting is a delightful way to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some creative ways to serve these delicious treats.
With a Cup of Coffee
- Enjoy your pumpkin cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a platter with seasonal fruits like apples and pears for an inviting display.
At Holiday Gatherings
- Serve these cookies at holiday parties or gatherings, making them a festive addition to your dessert table.
With Ice Cream
- Pair pumpkin cookies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Garnished with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for added texture and flavor contrast.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Making perfect pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out wonderfully every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and fluffy; overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
- Chill the Dough: If you want thicker cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
- Frost When Cool: Wait until your cookies have completely cooled before frosting them to prevent melting and sliding of the frosting.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing side dishes with pumpkin cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options that complement these flavors well.
- Spiced Chai Tea
A warm, aromatic drink that enhances the spices in the pumpkin cookies. - Apple Cider
A classic fall beverage that pairs perfectly with sweet desserts like these cookies. - Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
Layered yogurt, granola, and fruit create a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookie’s frosting. - Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
This creamy soup provides a savory balance to the sweetness of dessert. - Mixed Green Salad
A light salad dressed with vinaigrette can offer a refreshing bite alongside sweet treats. - Cheese Platter
Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which can be enjoyed between bites of sweet pumpkin cookie goodness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can be simple, but avoid these common mistakes to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precision. This affects the texture and flavor of your cookies.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Combine just until the ingredients are blended for a soft, pillowy treat.
- Skipping the cooling period: Letting your cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack is crucial. This helps them firm up and prevents breakage.
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and affect the final texture.
- Not adjusting for humidity: In humid conditions, flour may absorb moisture differently. Adjust by adding a little more flour if your dough is too sticky.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your pumpkin cookies in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid.
- Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Use medium power to heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat and warm the cookies for a couple of minutes, covered with a lid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting.
Can I substitute butter in this recipe?
You can use coconut oil or plant-based margarine as alternatives if you need dairy-free options.
How do I make my pumpkin cookies softer?
Make sure not to overbake them; they should be soft when they come out of the oven. Also, ensure your dough is not too dry by measuring flour correctly.
What can I use instead of cream cheese for frosting?
You can use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives or whipped coconut cream for a lighter option.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can fold in walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the dough for added texture and flavor.
How do I store leftover frosting?
Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize them with different spices or toppings! Perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave something sweet, give this recipe a try today!
Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Indulge in the warmth of fall with these delightful Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. Each cookie is soft and pillowy, made with rich pumpkin puree and a blend of warm spices that create a comforting flavor profile. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy afternoon treat.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 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
- 8 ounces (1 brick or 226 g) block-style cream cheese (softened but still cool)
- 1/4 cup (56 g) unsalted butter (softened but still cool)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups (210 g) confectioners’ sugar (sifted)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice; set aside.
- Beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
- Scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes until edges are set but cookies remain soft. Cool on a wire rack.
- For frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth; mix in vanilla and confectioners’ sugar until well combined.
- Once cooled, frost each cookie generously and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (45g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg