Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. With their soft texture and warm spices, these cookies are perfect for gatherings, holiday parties, or simply enjoying at home. The creamy frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the spiced pumpkin flavor. Everyone will love this seasonal favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, thanks to the perfect balance of ingredients.
• Festive Flavors: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices brings the taste of autumn into every bite.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for bakers of all skill levels, making it a great choice for family baking sessions.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them as an afternoon snack, they fit any occasion.
• Delicious Cream Cheese Frosting: The creamy frosting adds a rich flavor that elevates these cookies to another level.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and helps achieve a fluffy texture in both cookie dough and frosting.
• Baking sheets: Provide even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
• Wire rack: Allows cookies to cool properly, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting require simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.

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 prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

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

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

Step 5: Mix Dry with Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Scoop Dough

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto prepared baking sheets. Space them evenly apart for even baking.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set. Let them cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

While cookies cool down, prepare your frosting by beating together cream cheese and butter until smooth.

Step 9: Add Remaining Frosting Ingredients

Mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until light and fluffy. Adjust consistency if needed with more powdered sugar or a drop of milk.

Step 10: Frost Cookies

Once cookies have cooled completely, frost generously with cream cheese frosting. Serve them up fresh!

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delightful Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

Pair with Warm Beverages

• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the spices in the cookies.
• Tea: A cozy cup of chai or herbal tea enhances the warmth of pumpkin.
• Hot Chocolate: A sweet, creamy hot chocolate pairs perfectly with these cookies.

Create a Festive Platter

• Cookie Platter: Arrange the cookies on a decorative plate for easy serving at gatherings.
• Add Fresh Fruit: Include slices of apple or pear to contrast the sweetness of the cookies.
• Nuts and Dried Fruits: Scatter almonds or cranberries around the platter for added texture.

Use as a Dessert Topping

• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Place a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream between two cookies for a delicious treat.
• Crumble Over Cake: Crumble cookies over cake for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Making perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Chill the Dough: Allow dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances texture.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and smoother frosting.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies from the oven when edges are set but centers still look soft. They will firm up as they cool.
• Adjust Frosting Consistency: If frosting is too thick, add a tiny splash of milk to achieve your desired spreadability.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spice amounts based on your preference for a more personalized flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pair your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with complementary sides that enhance their fall flavors. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Apple Cider: A warm glass of apple cider brings out the spices in the cookies beautifully.
2. Pumpkin Soup: This savory dish balances out the sweetness of the cookies, making it a perfect pairing.
3. Cheese Board: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda to provide a creamy contrast to the spiced cookies.
4. Roasted Nuts: A mix of spiced or candied nuts adds crunch and depth to your dessert table.
5. Caramel Dip: Serve alongside caramel dip for an indulgent treat that complements pumpkin flavors well.
6. Ginger Snap Cookies: Offer these alongside for an exciting variety of textures and flavors that pair perfectly together.
7. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad adds brightness and freshness that balances out the richness of frosting.
8. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a light side that contrasts nicely with sweet cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less than stellar results. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the butter softening step: Using cold butter can result in a dense cookie. Always soften your butter for at least 30 minutes before mixing.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make cookies dry. Use the spoon and level method to ensure accurate measurements.
• Baking on an unprepared sheet: Not lining your baking sheets can cause sticking. Always use parchment paper or silicone mats for easy removal.
• Frosting too soon: Frosting warm cookies can melt the cream cheese frosting. Allow cookies to cool completely before applying frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze un-frosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container once solid. They will last up to 3 months.
• For frosted cookies, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then place in a container.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm cookies for about 5–7 minutes until slightly warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds, watching carefully not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for about 2 minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

These cookies blend warm spices and pumpkin flavor, topped with creamy frosting, making them perfect for fall gatherings.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes! Just ensure it is cooked and pureed smoothly before using it in the recipe.

How do I achieve the best texture for these cookies?

Be careful not to overmix your dough and allow your butter to soften properly before creaming it with sugars.

Can I customize the frosting flavor?

Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon or even citrus zest for a unique twist on the classic cream cheese frosting.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. They are perfect for any fall occasion or simply as a sweet treat at home. Feel free to customize the flavors and toppings to suit your taste!

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Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate sweet treat to celebrate the flavors of fall. These cookies boast a soft, chewy texture and are infused with warm spices that evoke cozy autumn vibes. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they deliver a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess in every bite. Perfect for gatherings, holiday parties, or simply enjoying at home, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Treat your friends and family to these seasonal delights, and watch them disappear in no time!

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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
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 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 your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Mix in pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture; stir gently until just combined.
6. Drop dough by tablespoons onto prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are set; cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. For frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth; mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until fluffy.
9. Frost cooled cookies generously before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 25mg