Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat for any occasion, especially during the fall. Their soft texture combined with warm spices and creamy frosting makes them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe features simple ingredients and straightforward steps that make baking a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and autumn spices creates a mouthwatering flavor that captures the essence of fall.
• Perfectly Frosted: The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy sweetness, making each bite unforgettable.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, potlucks, or cozy family gatherings; these cookies fit right in on any dessert table.
• Soft and Chewy: Enjoy a cookie that’s not only soft but also has the perfect chewiness that keeps you coming back for more.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather all your tools and equipment for a smooth process. Having everything ready will make your experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a light and fluffy texture by properly creaming the butter and sugars.
• Parchment paper: It prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring they come out perfectly shaped.

Ingredients

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are soft, spiced, and frosted to perfection. Perfect for fall baking, they combine warm autumn spices with creamy, tangy frosting for a festive treat everyone will love.

For the Cookies

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: adds richness and soft texture
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: sweetens and helps cookie structure
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: adds moisture and depth of flavor
• 1/3 cup pumpkin puree: provides moisture and pumpkin flavor
• 1 egg yolk: helps bind and create a tender crumb
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: enhances flavor
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: forms the cookie base
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: provides slight lift
• 1/4 tsp salt: balances sweetness and enhances flavor
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: adds warmth
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: complements the pumpkin
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves: deepens the spice profile

For the Frosting

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: forms the base of the frosting
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: helps smooth and enrich frosting
• 1 cup powdered sugar: sweetens and thickens frosting
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: flavors the frosting
• Pinch of salt: balances the frosting sweetness

How to Make Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This step helps evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices throughout your cookies.

Step 5: Mix Dry into Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can affect texture.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Space them evenly apart to allow room for spreading while baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set. The tops should no longer look wet. Let them cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cookies cool down, beat together softened cream cheese and butter in a bowl until smooth.

Step 9: Finish Frosting

Add in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until light and fluffy. Adjust consistency if needed by adding more powdered sugar or a drop of milk.

Step 10: Frost Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cooled down, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any gathering or cozy night in. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will make your cookies even more enjoyable.

With a Warm Beverage

• Hot Apple Cider: The sweet and spicy notes of hot apple cider complement the warm flavors of pumpkin.
• Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the fall vibes by pairing these cookies with a classic pumpkin spice latte.
• Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea enhance the cookie’s flavor profile wonderfully.

On a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Fall Treats: Arrange your cookies alongside other fall-themed desserts like pecan pie or caramel apples for a festive display.
• Cheese Board Addition: Add cookies to a cheese board for a sweet contrast to savory cheeses and fruits.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Gift Boxes: Package cookies in decorative boxes as gifts for friends and family during holidays.
• Cookie Exchange Parties: Bring these cookies to cookie exchanges for a unique twist that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Achieving the ideal Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting involves attention to detail. Here are tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Bold Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; slightly underbaking will yield softer cookies.
• Bold Dough Chilling: Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to enhance texture and prevent spreading.
• Bold Ingredient Temperature: Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for smooth mixing and even frosting consistency.
• Bold Measuring Techniques: Properly measure flour using the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies.
• Bold Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to add more spices if you prefer a spicier cookie or adjust sweetness by modifying sugar levels.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement these sweet treats.

1. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts bring a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and lightness, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Offer melted chocolate for dipping, adding an indulgent touch that pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors.
4. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over cookies or serve it on the side for an extra layer of sweetness.
5. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast, perfect for those who enjoy combinations of hot and cold treats.
6. Whipped Cream Topping: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be dolloped on top of each cookie for added richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be fun, but there are common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to ensure your baking goes smoothly.

• Using cold butter: Cold butter will not cream properly with the sugars, leading to dense cookies. Always ensure your butter is softened at room temperature before starting.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make the cookies tough. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Skipping the cooling time: Frosting warm cookies can cause the frosting to melt and run off. Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting.
• Ignoring baking times: Oven temperatures can vary. Keep an eye on your cookies and remove them when the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes. This helps maintain texture.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick snack.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes, flipping occasionally to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

To make these delicious cookies, follow the recipe instructions carefully, ensuring you mix wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them.

Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, using canned pumpkin puree is perfect for this recipe. It provides consistent flavor and moisture without extra prep time.

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I customize the cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor or use different types of sugar for sweetness.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only soft and delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with additional spices or toppings to suit your taste. Try this delightful recipe today!

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Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: About 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of fall with these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies topped with luscious Cream Cheese Frosting. Perfectly soft and chewy, these cookies are infused with rich pumpkin flavor and a delightful blend of warm spices that evoke the cozy spirit of autumn. The creamy frosting adds a tangy sweetness that makes each bite simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or treating yourself to a cozy night in, these cookies will surely impress. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re a must-bake for anyone who loves the flavors of the season.

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• For Frosting: 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
5. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet until just combined.
6. Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets with spacing for spreading.
7. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges set; cool on wire rack.
8. For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth; add powdered sugar and salt until fluffy.
9. Once cookies are cool, frost generously and serve.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg