Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect fall treat! These delicious cookies combine the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, topped with a creamy frosting that adds a sweet and tangy finish. Ideal for gatherings, holidays, or a cozy night in, these cookies will quickly become a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip up these cookies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a warm and inviting taste.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering or an autumn celebration.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies are thick and soft, making them irresistible with every bite.
• Perfectly Frosted: The cream cheese frosting adds a delightful tang that complements the sweetness of the cookie.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure success in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for mixing your wet and dry ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth consistency for both the cookie dough and cream cheese frosting.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies to perfection.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easier to remove your cookies once baked.

Ingredients

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
• Cinnamon

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. Preheating ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the melted butter, pumpkin puree, white sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Combine until smooth.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Next, add the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt into the bowl. Mix until a cookie dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for about 25 minutes to firm up the dough.

Step 5: Shape Your Cookies

Remove the dough from the fridge. Roll it into balls about 1½ to 2 tablespoons in size. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet; aim for around 12-14 cookies.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 18 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden but still soft.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting

While your cookies are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until well combined. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract while mixing until smooth. Chill in the refrigerator until needed.

Step 8: Frost Your Cookies

Once baked cookies have cooled completely, spread about one tablespoon of frosting on each cookie. Sprinkle with extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon if desired.

Step 9: Enjoy!

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are now ready to be enjoyed! Share them with friends or keep them all to yourself—you deserve it!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are delightful treats that can be served in various ways. Whether for a cozy gathering or simply enjoying at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your cookie experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Serve alongside warm apple cider for a comforting fall pairing.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or chai tea to enhance the spices.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange on a festive platter with other seasonal desserts like pumpkin pie bites or cinnamon rolls.
• Add some fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Package cookies in decorative bags or boxes and tie with a ribbon for thoughtful homemade gifts.
• Include a handwritten note with your favorite serving suggestion to personalize it even more.

At Parties and Gatherings

• Place cookies on a dessert table as part of your fall-themed party spread.
• Offer them alongside mini cupcakes or brownies for variety.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can take your baking game to the next level. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps the flavors meld together and ensures the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient amounts, which is key for consistent results.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Use Fresh Spices: For maximum flavor, use fresh pumpkin pie spice. Old spices can lose their potency over time.
• Let Cookies Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and losing its shape.
• Experiment with Toppings: Add crushed nuts or chocolate chips on top of the frosting for added texture and flavor variations.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies makes for an even more delightful treat experience. Here are some tasty options.

1. Apple Slices: Crisp and refreshing, serve alongside almond butter or caramel for dipping.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses such as brie or goat cheese complements the sweetness of the cookies nicely.
3. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup enhances the fall flavors perfectly.
4. Carrot Sticks: Crunchy carrot sticks provide a healthy contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit for a delicious breakfast option that pairs beautifully with cookies.
6. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts offer crunchiness and warmth that matches the cookie’s flavor profile.
7. Hot Chocolate: Rich hot chocolate serves as an indulgent beverage choice that complements the sweet cookies well.
8. Cinnamon Rolls: For extra sweetness, serving mini cinnamon rolls creates a delightful dessert spread during special occasions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Using room temperature ingredients – Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened properly for the best texture. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy frosting and uneven cookie dough.
• Not chilling the dough – Chilling the dough for at least 25 minutes is crucial. Skipping this step can result in cookies that spread too much while baking.
• Incorrect oven temperature – Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to undercooked or overly crispy cookies.
• Overmixing the cookie dough – Mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, making the cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.
• Skipping the spices – Pumpkin pie spice adds essential flavor. Don’t omit it; instead, adjust to your taste if you prefer a milder spice profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze cookies without frosting for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F. Place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate. Be careful not to overheat!
• Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, covering it briefly until warmed, about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just ensure it’s well-cooked and blended smoothly before adding it to the dough.

How do I make my cookies thicker?

To achieve thicker cookies, chill the dough longer or add a bit more flour until you reach your desired consistency.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in frosting?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you want a different flavor or dietary option.

How should I store leftover frosted cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for optimal freshness and flavor retention.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but also versatile enough to impress any crowd. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips for additional texture and flavor! Try this recipe this fall season and make it a family favorite!