Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With their soft, pillowy texture and the rich cream cheese frosting, they are perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as an indulgent snack. The fusion of pumpkin flavors and creamy sweetness makes these cookies stand out, ensuring every bite is a memorable experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps that anyone can follow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a unique flavor that is both comforting and satisfying.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are ideal for various occasions, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings.
• Frosting Perfection: The cream cheese frosting adds a rich layer of sweetness that perfectly complements the cookies.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Each cookie has a delightful softness that melts in your mouth, making them hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

To make these pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. These will help ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes mixing the dough easy and ensures a light, fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients properly without mess.
• Cookie scoop or spoon: Helps portion out uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To create these delicious pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, gather 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 (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 it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
* Flour
* Baking powder
* Baking soda
* Salt
* Pumpkin pie spice

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat together:
* Unsalted butter
* Granulated sugar
* Brown sugar

Mix on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add in:
* Pumpkin puree
* Egg
* Vanilla extract

Continue mixing until well combined. Remember to scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl if necessary.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined; be careful not to over-mix. The dough should be sticky and soft.

Step 5: Scoop the Dough

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake

Place the cookies in your preheated oven. Bake at 350° F for about 13 to 15 minutes. The edges should be set while keeping the centers soft. Allow them 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 another bowl, beat together:
* Cream cheese
* Unsalted butter

Mix on medium-high speed until smooth, about 30 seconds. Then, add:
* Vanilla extract
* Sifted confectioners’ sugar

Mix again just until combined.

Step 8: Frost the Cookies

Once cookies have cooled completely, use an offset spatula or knife to spread frosting on top. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can enhance their delightful flavor and create a memorable experience. Here are some creative ways to present these delicious treats.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee or Tea: Pair your cookies with a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy the sweetness of pumpkin cookies alongside rich hot chocolate for a comforting dessert.

At Parties and Gatherings

• Dessert Platter: Arrange the frosted cookies on a decorative platter, garnished with cinnamon sticks or seasonal fruits for a festive touch.
• Cookie Bar: Set up a DIY cookie bar where guests can choose their favorite toppings or drizzles to add to their cookies.

For Seasonal Celebrations

• Halloween Treats: Decorate your cookies with spooky designs using colored icing for Halloween-themed parties.
• Thanksgiving Dessert Table: Include these cookies as part of your Thanksgiving dessert spread, showcasing them alongside pies and cakes.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your pumpkin cookies is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Keep these tips in mind for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cookies caused by too much flour.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and fluffy; overmixing can lead to tougher texture.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cookies to cool fully before applying frosting to prevent it from melting or sliding off.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preference for added warmth and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement pumpkin cookies beautifully.

1. Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai perfectly complement the flavors of pumpkin, making it an ideal pairing.
2. Apple Slices with Nut Butter: Crisp apple slices dipped in almond or peanut butter offer a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Pecan Pie Bars: Rich pecan bars bring additional nutty flavors that enhance your pumpkin treats during fall celebrations.
4. Caramel Sauce Dip: A small bowl of caramel sauce for dipping adds an indulgent twist and balances the flavors nicely.
5. Pumpkin Soup: Start your meal with a light pumpkin soup, which ties in beautifully with your dessert theme.
6. Spiced Hot Cider: This warm beverage enhances the autumnal feel while providing a lovely balance to sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can be fun, but a few common mistakes can ruin the experience.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science; precise measurements are crucial for the right texture and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and fluffy.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow cookies to cool on the pan before transferring them. This helps them set properly and avoids breakage.
• Using cold ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for better incorporation and texture.
• Neglecting oven temperature: Always preheat your oven before baking. A properly heated oven ensures even cooking and prevents undercooked centers.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze cookies without frosting for up to 3 months.
• Use a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350° F. Place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, for a few minutes until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting?

Combine flour, sugar, pumpkin puree, and spices; bake until fluffy. Frost with a mixture of cream cheese and powdered sugar.

Can I freeze pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting?

Yes, it’s best to freeze the cookies without frosting. Once thawed, you can frost them for best results.

What can I use instead of eggs in pumpkin cookies?

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

How long do these pumpkin cookies last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, they last up to 5 days. In the freezer, they can be kept for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting offer a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Their soft texture paired with creamy frosting makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor!