Name: Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups 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 unsalted butter (room temperature); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar; 1 1/4 cups canned pumpkin puree; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 8 ounces block-style cream cheese (softened but still cool); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened but still cool); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for frosting); 1 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar (sifted)

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These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are the perfect treat for any occasion. With their soft, pillowy texture and deliciously creamy frosting, these cookies are sure to be a hit at gatherings, parties, or even a cozy night in. The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates an inviting flavor that melts in your mouth. Enjoy them as a delightful dessert or share them with friends and family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and cream cheese frosting offers a unique taste that is both comforting and delicious.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s fall festivities or holiday gatherings, these cookies fit right in.
Soft Texture: The cookies are incredibly soft and fluffy, providing a delightful mouthfeel with every bite.
Make Ahead Option: These cookies can be prepared ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy batter quickly.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking cookies evenly.
Cookie scoop or spoon: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Ingredients

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting melt in your mouth with each bite. They are easy to make and pillowy soft!

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: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice in a bowl. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a stand mixer bowl (or using a hand mixer), beat the room temperature butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes. Then add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl if needed. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients; mix just until combined. The dough should be slightly sticky.

Step 4: 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 to allow room for spreading.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes, or until edges are set but centers remain soft. Allow them to cool on the pan for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While cookies are cooling, prepare your frosting by beating together softened cream cheese and butter on medium-high speed until smooth—about 30 seconds. Add vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar; mix again just until combined—this should take about another 30 seconds.

Step 7: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled completely, use an offset spatula or knife to spread cream cheese frosting over each cookie. Finish by garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Enjoy your delicious pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delightful pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting make a perfect treat for any occasion. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your dessert experience.

With a Warm Beverage

Coffee: Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
Hot Chocolate: The sweetness of hot chocolate complements the spices in the cookies perfectly.
Chai Tea: Enjoying these cookies with chai tea enhances the warm flavors of fall spices.

On a Dessert Platter

Assorted Cookies: Mix these pumpkin cookies with other cookies like chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin for variety.
Fruit Garnishes: Add fresh fruit like apple slices or grapes to create a colorful presentation.

At a Celebration

Birthday Parties: These cookies can be a fun addition to any birthday dessert table.
Holiday Gatherings: Perfect for Thanksgiving or Halloween festivities, they add a festive touch.

As Party Favors

Gift Bags: Package them in cute bags tied with ribbon for guests to take home.
Personalized Tags: Include tags with serving suggestions or fun facts about the recipe.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Achieving the perfect pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting is easy when you follow these simple tips.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps in achieving a smooth dough and creamy frosting.
Don’t Overmix: Mixing just until combined ensures soft and tender cookies.
Chill the Dough: If you prefer thicker cookies, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be soft but not undercooked.
Sift Confectioners’ Sugar: Sifting prevents lumps in your cream cheese frosting, resulting in a silky texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin cookies pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

Apple Slices: Crisp and refreshing, they balance the sweetness of the cookies.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides contrasting flavors to the sweet cookie.
Caramel Dip: Adds an extra layer of indulgence when paired with apple slices alongside the cookies.
Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup can complement the spices in your dessert beautifully.
Fall Salad: A salad featuring mixed greens, nuts, and dried cranberries offers freshness against rich flavors.
Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt and granola create a light and healthy contrast to these decadent treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

Not using room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the texture of your cookies. Always let them sit out for about 30 minutes before baking.
Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as the flour is incorporated for softer, fluffier cookies.
Skipping the parchment paper: Baking without parchment can cause sticking and uneven baking. Always line your baking sheet to ensure easy removal and even cooking.
Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are key to baking success. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure you get it right.
Ignoring cooling time: Letting cookies cool on the pan before transferring them helps maintain their shape and texture. Don’t rush this step!

Refrigerator Storage

Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Keep them separated with parchment paper if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Oven: Preheat to 350° F and warm cookies for about 5-10 minutes until soft.
Microwave: Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 1 minute.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

To make these delicious pumpkin cookies, mix together dry ingredients, cream together butter and sugars, add pumpkin and egg, then combine wet and dry mixtures before baking.

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your cookie dough.

What is the best way to frost Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Use an offset spatula or knife to spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over cooled cookies. A sprinkle of cinnamon adds a nice touch!

How long do these pumpkin cookies last?

Properly stored in an airtight container, pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting last about 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are not only easy to make but also incredibly soft and flavorful. They are perfect for any occasion and can easily be customized with different spices or toppings. Give this recipe a try—your friends and family will love them!