Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that will melt in your mouth. With their soft and pillowy texture, they are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy fall gathering or a sweet addition to your dessert table. The creamy frosting adds an irresistible finish, making these cookies a standout choice for pumpkin lovers everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, allowing even novice bakers to create delicious cookies with minimal effort.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Each cookie is designed to be soft and fluffy, providing a satisfying bite that keeps you coming back for more.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a simple family dessert, these cookies fit right in and impress everyone.
• Versatile Flavor: The pumpkin spice aroma fills your kitchen, creating a warm atmosphere that’s perfect for fall.
• Delicious Cream Cheese Frosting: The creamy, tangy frosting complements the sweetness of the cookies wonderfully.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking delicious pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, gather your tools and get ready. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Off-set spatula or knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools make it easy to achieve a light and fluffy butter-sugar mixture quickly.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and helps prevent sticking when lined with parchment paper.
• Cookie scoop: Using this tool allows for uniform cookie sizes, ensuring they bake evenly.

Ingredients

For these delightful pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, you will need the following ingredients:

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)

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:
1. Flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Pumpkin pie spice

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of your stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat together:
1. Butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 3 minutes.
2. Add in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix. The dough will be slightly sticky.

Step 5: Scoop Cookies onto Baking Sheet

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out heaping tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake at 350° F for 13 to 15 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft. Let them cool on the pan for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In another mixing bowl, beat together:
1. Cream cheese and butter until smooth—this should take about 30 seconds.
2. Add vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar; mix again just until combined—another 30 seconds should do it.

Step 8: Frost Your Cookies

Once cooled, use an off-set spatula or knife to spread cream cheese frosting on each cookie. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired before serving.

Enjoy these delectable pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting at any gathering!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are perfect for various occasions. Whether you want a sweet treat for a gathering or a cozy dessert at home, here are some serving suggestions.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The flavors of pumpkin and spice complement the beverages beautifully.

As Party Favors

• Package cookies in decorative bags or boxes for guests to take home. They make delightful party favors that everyone will love.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter alongside other sweets. This creates an inviting display for guests.

With Ice Cream

• Serve cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The combination of warm and cold is simply irresistible.

At Holiday Gatherings

• These cookies are great for Thanksgiving or Halloween parties. Their festive flavors fit perfectly with seasonal celebrations.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Sift the flour: Sifting helps remove lumps and aerates the flour, leading to lighter cookies.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and tender.
• Chill the dough if needed: If your dough feels too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking.
• Check for doneness: Cookies should be soft in the center but set around the edges; avoid overbaking for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink that pairs well with the fall flavors of pumpkin.
2. Maple Pecan Salad: A fresh salad featuring nuts and dried fruits that balances sweetness.
3. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy soup offers a savory contrast to sweet cookies.
4. Chocolate Ganache Tart: Rich chocolate adds another dessert option that contrasts nicely.
5. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: A savory side dish that brings depth alongside sweet treats.
6. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses provides a savory bite that complements the sweetness of cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold butter or egg can lead to uneven mixing. Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for smooth batter.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can make cookies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for soft, pillowy cookies.

• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour can result in dry cookies. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurements.

• Underbaking or Overbaking: Baking time is crucial for texture. Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be soft and slightly set at the edges when done.

• Ignoring Frosting Consistency: A runny frosting can ruin the look and taste. Adjust with more confectioners’ sugar if needed for a thicker consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin cookies in an airtight container.
• They will remain fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
• They can be kept for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting:

How do I make these Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that is designed for baking. Ensure it contains xanthan gum if your blend does not include it.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use freshly cooked pumpkin puree! Just ensure it’s well-drained and smooth before using it in the recipe.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

You can use vegan cream cheese or mascarpone as alternatives if you’re looking for different flavors or dietary options.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly, pumpkin cookies will last about 5 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my pumpkin cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the dough for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting offer a delightful blend of flavors that melt in your mouth. They’re perfect for any occasion and easy to customize with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Try this recipe today, and enjoy these soft, delicious treats!

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Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. These soft, pillowy cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion, bringing warmth and sweetness to your dessert table. The pumpkin spice aroma fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that screams fall. Topped with a creamy, tangy frosting, each bite offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will leave your guests craving more. Whether for a cozy gathering or a festive celebration, these cookies are sure to impress!

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Ingredients

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• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 1/4 cups canned pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (plus extra for sprinkling)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened but still cool)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar (sifted)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
3. In a stand mixer, beat butter and sugars until fluffy. Add pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until just combined.
5. Scoop dough onto prepared sheet, spacing them apart.
6. Bake for 13-15 minutes until edges are set; cool on wire rack.
7. For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth; add vanilla and sugar until combined.
8. Frost cooled cookies and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg