Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion. Their soft, pillowy texture and rich flavor make them an irresistible dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies will impress everyone. The cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious touch that brings out the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, inviting flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are great for fall gatherings, holidays, or any time you want to enjoy something sweet.
• Soft Texture: Each cookie is soft and fluffy, melting in your mouth with each bite.
• Frosted Delight: The cream cheese frosting elevates these cookies, adding richness and sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing these cookies requires just a few essential tools that can help streamline your baking process.

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 make it easy to achieve a light and fluffy texture for your butter and sugar mixture.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even baking for your cookies.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

These ingredients come together to create delectable 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 aside.

Step 2: Prepare the 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:
1. Beat together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
2. Add canned pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl if needed.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients:
– Mix just until combined. The dough should be slightly sticky and soft.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon:
– Scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
– Space cookies about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes or until edges are set:
– Allow cookies to cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter on medium-high speed until smooth, about 30 seconds.
2. Add vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar; mix again until combined, about another 30 seconds.

Step 8: Frost the Cookies

Once cookies are cool:
– Use an off-set spatula or knife to frost each cookie generously with cream cheese frosting.
– Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.

Now you have delicious Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting ready to share! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair these cookies with your favorite brewed coffee for a cozy experience.
• The rich flavors of the pumpkin and cream cheese complement the coffee perfectly.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange pumpkin cookies alongside other seasonal sweets for a festive dessert platter.
• Include items like mini cheesecakes or chocolate chip cookies to diversify flavors.

At Parties and Gatherings

• Serve these cookies at parties, where they will surely impress your guests.
• Their soft texture and sweet frosting make them an instant crowd-pleaser.

With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream

• Top each cookie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• This adds an extra layer of indulgence, perfect for special occasions.

For Afternoon Tea

• Enjoy these cookies during afternoon tea with friends or family.
• They pair wonderfully with herbal teas and add a touch of sweetness to your tea time.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting is all about attention to detail. Here are some 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 better mixing.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and tender.
• Chill the dough if needed: If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking.
• Check for doneness: Keep an eye on the edges; they should be set but the center soft.
• Store properly: Keep the cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or allspice to enhance the flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here’s a list of excellent side options you can consider.

1. Apple Cider Donuts
   These sweet treats offer a delightful fall flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.

2. Caramel Pecan Brownies
   Rich brownies topped with caramel and pecans provide a contrasting texture and taste.

3. Chai-Spiced Muffins
   Fluffy muffins infused with chai spices create a warm, inviting atmosphere alongside your cookies.

4. Sweet Potato Pie
   This classic dessert brings in another layer of fall flavors that harmonize well with pumpkin.

5. Creamy Cheesecake Bites
   Mini cheesecake bites offer a rich and creamy option that complements the frosting on your cookies.

6. Cranberry Orange Scones
   Scones made with cranberries and orange zest add brightness and balance to the sweetness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for to ensure the best results.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can lead to dense cookies. Always use room temperature ingredients for a lighter texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make cookies dry. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level the flour for accuracy.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for soft, tender cookies.
• Skipping the cooling step: Frosting warm cookies can cause the frosting to melt. Allow cookies to cool completely before adding frosting.
• Not adjusting baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies. Bake until edges are set for the perfect texture.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350° F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, cover, and heat gently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes these Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting so special?

These pumpkin cookies are soft and fluffy, perfectly complemented by creamy frosting that enhances their flavor and richness.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! If using fresh pumpkin, ensure it is cooked and pureed well to achieve the right consistency.

How do I customize my Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture. Experiment with spices too!

How do I store leftover Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

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

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their soft texture and sweet flavor make them irresistible. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings!