Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful fusion of soft, spiced cookies topped with creamy frosting. Ideal for any fall gathering or celebration, these treats bring warmth and sweetness to every occasion. With their inviting aroma and festive appearance, they are sure to be a hit at your next family gathering or potluck.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple instructions ensure that even beginner bakers can create these delicious cookies.
• Fall Flavors: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices makes these cookies a perfect treat for autumn.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in; these cookies fit any occasion beautifully.
• Delightfully Soft: The addition of pumpkin puree keeps the cookies moist and tender, making them irresistible.
• Creamy Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy contrast that elevates the cookie experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools to make the experience smooth and enjoyable. Being prepared will help you create the best Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients properly, ensuring an even texture in your dough.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for fluffy cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easier to remove baked cookies from the baking sheet without damage.

Ingredients

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are soft, spiced, and frosted to perfection. Perfect for fall baking, they combine warm autumn spices with creamy, tangy frosting for a festive treat everyone will love.

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) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures even baking while keeping your cookies from 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. This should take about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully combined for a smooth batter.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This step ensures that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Mix Dry with Wet Ingredients

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing as this can lead to dense cookies.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of dough onto prepared baking sheets. Space them evenly apart to allow for spreading during baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set but tops look slightly wet. Allow them to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

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

Step 9: Mix in Sugar and Flavorings

Add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Beat this mixture until it’s light and fluffy. Adjust consistency if needed using more powdered sugar or a splash of milk.

Step 10: Frost Cookies

Once your cookies have cooled completely, generously frost each one with the cream cheese mixture before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delightful Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be enjoyed in several delicious ways. Whether for a fall gathering, holiday celebration, or just a cozy treat at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

• A warm coffee pairs perfectly with the soft pumpkin cookies, enhancing the spices and creaminess of the frosting.

At a Fall Gathering

• Serve these cookies on a festive platter at your next autumn party. They make for a charming dessert that guests will love.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include these cookies alongside other fall treats like pecan pie and apple crisp for a varied dessert experience.

Gift-Wrapped for Friends

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the flavors beautifully, creating a delicious contrast to the spiced pumpkin cookies.

During Movie Night

• Enjoy these cookies while watching your favorite fall movies. They make for a cozy snack to share with loved ones.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh pumpkin puree and spices will deliver more vibrant flavors in your cookies.
• Chill the Dough – If time permits, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape during baking.
• Do Not Overmix – Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender and avoid tough texture.
• Adjust Baking Time – Keep an eye on them while baking; ovens vary so check at the lower end of the baking time range.
• Frost When Cool – Ensure cookies are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting and sliding off.
• Store Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Warm Apple Crisp – The cinnamon-infused apples complement pumpkin’s spice beautifully, adding warmth to your dessert spread.
2. Pecan Pie – This classic pie adds richness and crunch, making it a perfect pairing with your soft cookies.
3. Caramel Sauce – Drizzle caramel over cookies or serve it alongside for dipping; this sweet addition elevates flavors wonderfully.
4. Chocolate Mousse – The creamy texture of mousse offers a luxurious contrast, making for an indulgent dessert combination.
5. Whipped Cream – Lightly sweetened whipped cream is an easy topping that enhances both taste and presentation of your cookies.
6. Cheesecake Bites – Mini cheesecake bites provide a creamy alternative that balances well with spiced flavors of pumpkin.
7. Coffee Cake – The crumbly texture of coffee cake pairs nicely, offering another layer of sweetness without overpowering the cookies.
8. Fall Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits like pears and figs provides freshness and balances out the richness of cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or cream cheese can lead to a lumpy frosting. Always let your butter and cream cheese soften before mixing.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too vigorously can create tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Ignoring cooling time: Frosting warm cookies can cause it to melt. Make sure cookies are completely cool before frosting.
• Setting incorrect oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cold can affect baking time. Always preheat and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container: Keeps cookies fresh longer.
• Enjoy within 5 days: For best flavor and texture.

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze unfrosted cookies: They freeze better without frosting.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers: This prevents freezer burn.
• Best used within 2 months: For optimal taste and texture.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft result.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe and saves time!

What is the best way to frost these cookies?

A spatula or piping bag will give you the best results for even coverage.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture of your cookies.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that’s perfect for fall gatherings. Their soft texture and spiced flavor are sure to impress. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins or spices!