Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, look no further than these Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. There’s something special about the warm spices mingling with the sweet pumpkin flavor that brings back cozy memories. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a birthday, or just want a comforting dessert on a busy weeknight, these cookies are sure to impress everyone around the table.

What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a batch of soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies ready to share (or keep all to yourself!). Trust me; once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is one of my favorites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe requires just a few simple steps and ingredients. Perfect for bakers of all skill levels!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the soft texture and sweet flavor of these cookies. They make an excellent after-school snack!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can bake these cookies in advance and frost them later. They store well too—perfect for meal prepping!
• Deliciously spiced: The pumpkin pie spice adds just the right amount of warmth and flavor, making them perfect for any autumn occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these delicious Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll gather:

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)

Variations

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste or dietary needs! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add chocolate chips: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips into the dough for an extra sweet twist.
• Try different spices: Swap out pumpkin pie spice for cinnamon or nutmeg if you want to change up the flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free version.
• Top with nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of your frosted cookies for added crunch.

How to Make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure even distribution throughout your cookie dough.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

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. Then add in your pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. Scraping down the sides will help incorporate every bit!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add your dry mixture into the wet mixture gradually. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix! The dough may be sticky—this is perfectly normal!

Step 5: Scoop & Bake

Use a medium cookie scoop or spoon to drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them about two inches apart because they will spread while baking. Bake in your preheated oven for about 13-15 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft.

Step 6: Cool Before Frosting

Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling helps them firm up so they can hold their shape when you frost them.

Step 7: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

While waiting for your cookies to cool completely, prepare your cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla and sifted confectioners’ sugar into the mix until well combined—easy peasy!

Step 8: Frost & Serve!

Once cooled completely, use an offset spatula or knife to generously frost each cookie with your luscious cream cheese frosting. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top makes it look as good as it tastes! Enjoy these delightful treats fresh or store them in an airtight container for later indulgence.

Now that you have this lovely recipe at hand, I can’t wait for you to try it! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Making these pumpkin cookies is a breeze, and a few handy tips can make them even better!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature allows for better mixing and a smoother batter, leading to fluffier cookies.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined helps maintain the tender texture of the cookies. Overmixing can result in dense cookies.
• Chill the dough if needed: If your dough feels too sticky to scoop, refrigerate it for about 15-30 minutes. Chilling helps firm it up, making it easier to handle.
• Check for doneness: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake! They should be soft in the center but set around the edges. Underbaking slightly will keep them soft.
• Allow for cooling time: Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking apart and helps them hold their shape.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delightful pumpkin cookies not only taste heavenly but also look gorgeous when served right. Here are some ideas to present this sweet treat beautifully.

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of cinnamon: A light dusting of cinnamon adds a lovely touch of flavor and visual appeal, enhancing the fall vibe of these cookies.
• Chopped nuts: Finely chopped pecans or walnuts can add a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the cookies while also offering a nutty flavor that complements pumpkin well.

Side Dishes

• Hot Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider pairs perfectly with these cookies, creating a cozy autumn atmosphere.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream serves as an indulgent side that balances out the spices in the pumpkin cookies beautifully.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad brings brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the cookie and frosting, making for a refreshing contrast.
• Coffee or Tea: The warmth and bitterness of coffee or tea enhance the sweetness of these cookies, making it an ideal pairing for any afternoon snack or dessert.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making them a delightful treat to enjoy throughout the week or to share with friends and family.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them chilled, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Ensure that the frosting is set before stacking the cookies to avoid smudging.

Freezing

• Freeze the unfrosted cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container.
• For best quality, consume frozen cookies within 3 months.
• Frost after thawing to maintain fresh texture and flavor.

Reheating

• To enjoy a warm cookie, simply microwave it for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can place them in a preheated oven at 300° F for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delicious pumpkin cookies!

Can I make these Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute one egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup) as an egg replacement.

How do I achieve the best texture for my Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

To get soft, pillowy cookies, make sure not to overmix your dough once you add the flour. A little stickiness is normal, and keeping ingredients at room temperature helps achieve that desired texture.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, ensure it’s well-cooked and pureed until smooth. Drain any excess moisture to prevent sogginess in your cookie dough.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these scrumptious pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting! They are perfect for cozy gatherings or simply indulging during your quiet moments at home. With their soft texture and rich flavor, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share your creations!