Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful way to embrace the fall season. These cookies combine the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with a creamy frosting that adds a perfect touch of sweetness. Ideal for gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying at home, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them stand out as a must-try fall dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and cream cheese frosting creates a taste that’s both comforting and festive.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Halloween, or just a cozy autumn day, these cookies fit right in.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Each bite delivers a delightful softness that melts in your mouth.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add extra spices or even nuts on top for added flavor and crunch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having the proper equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you ample room to mix all your ingredients without spilling.
• Electric mixer: This tool ensures your frosting is perfectly blended and smooth without too much effort.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.

Ingredients

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are the ultimate fall dessert recipe! Made with canned pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and a sweet & tangy cream cheese frosting … this easy cookie is soft, thick, dense, and delicious. Full of warm spices and flavor, these will be a pumpkin season family favorite!

For the Cookies

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add the melted butter, pumpkin puree, white sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
2. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next:
1. Add in the dry ingredients—flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt.
2. Stir until a cookie dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap:
1. Place it in the refrigerator for about 25 minutes.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

After chilling:
1. Roll about 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons of dough into balls.
2. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet; you should get around 12-14 cookies.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven:
– For about 18 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While cookies bake:
1. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter.
2. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Chill frosting in the fridge until cookies are cool.

Step 8: Frost Your Cookies

Once baked cookies have cooled completely:
1. Spread about a tablespoon of cream cheese frosting on each cookie.
2. Optionally sprinkle some extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Savor these delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting—perfect for any fall occasion!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for sharing and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

Pair with Hot Beverages

• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
• Tea: A warm cup of chai or spiced tea enhances the pumpkin spice flavors.
• Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a cozy pairing for a sweet treat on chilly days.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Assorted Cookies: Add variety by including different flavored cookies alongside the pumpkin spice ones.
• Dried Fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries or apricots for a chewy texture contrast.
• Chocolate Dips: Offer melted chocolate for guests to dip their cookies, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Festive Presentation

• Decorative Plates: Serve on colorful fall-themed plates to highlight the season’s charm.
• Cookie Jars: Store cookies in glass jars to create an eye-catching centerpiece at gatherings.

Share as Party Favors

• Gift Bags: Package cookies in small bags tied with ribbons for guests to take home.
• Personal Touches: Include a handwritten note with each bag to add a personal touch.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: This helps prevent cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh pumpkin pie spice will enhance the flavor profile of your cookies significantly.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies and remove them when they are just set; they will continue cooking as they cool.
• Cream Cheese Temperature: Make sure the cream cheese is softened properly for a smooth frosting consistency.
• Frost After Cooling: Allow cookies to cool completely before applying frosting to prevent melting and sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies can be complemented beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Apple Slices: Crisp apple slices provide a refreshing crunch that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, like sharp cheddar or creamy brie, pairs well and adds savory notes.
3. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup creates a lovely fall-themed meal alongside your cookies.
4. Caramel Dip: Serve with caramel sauce for dipping, enhancing the sweet flavor profile even further.
5. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add a nice crunch and complement the warm spices in your cookies.
6. Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream is always a favorite and provides a cold contrast to the warm spices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be fun, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the refrigeration step can lead to flat cookies. Always chill your dough to ensure a thicker cookie.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cookie texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can impact how well the cookies rise. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Neglecting to measure properly: Incorrect measurements can ruin your recipe. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for both dry and wet ingredients.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar 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 for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges of the cookies should be lightly golden, while the centers might look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Yes! Homemade pumpkin puree works great, but make sure it’s not too watery. Drain excess moisture if needed.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in frosting?

You can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt as alternatives, but this will change the flavor slightly.

How do I customize Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit to the dough for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in. Their soft texture and delightful spices make them irresistible! Feel free to customize your cookies by adding nuts or chocolate chips according to your taste preferences. Give this delicious recipe a try—you won’t regret it!