Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate fall treat. They are soft, spiced, and frosted to perfection, making them a delightful addition to any gathering or celebration. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or simply enjoying the cozy autumn days, these cookies will bring warmth and joy to your table. Their unique combination of pumpkin and warm spices paired with creamy frosting makes them irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a warm and inviting taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Soft Texture: These cookies are soft and chewy, making every bite a delight.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve great results.
• Versatile Uses: Perfect for holiday gatherings, coffee breaks, or as a sweet treat anytime you crave something special.
• Creamy Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the spiced cookies.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your baking adventure, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop (optional)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Electric mixer: Saves time while ensuring the butter and sugars are creamed to perfection for a fluffy texture.
• Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking cookies, preventing sticking when lined with parchment paper.

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). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar

Beat until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin Mixture

Add:
– Pumpkin puree
– Egg yolk
– Vanilla extract

Mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
– All-purpose flour
– Baking powder
– Salt
– Ground cinnamon
– Ground nutmeg
– Ground cloves

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto prepared baking sheets. Space them evenly for even baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set. Allow cooling on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While cookies cool:
1. Beat together:
– Cream cheese
– Unsalted butter

Until smooth.

1. Add:
2. Powdered sugar
3. Vanilla extract
4. A pinch of salt

Beat until light and fluffy. Adjust consistency if necessary.

Step 9: Frost Cookies

Once cookies are completely cool, frost generously with your prepared cream cheese frosting. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container!

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting make a delightful dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair these cookies with your favorite coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. The warm spices in the cookies complement the rich flavors of your brew.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a festive platter alongside seasonal fruits like apples and pears. This adds freshness and color to your dessert table.

With Ice Cream

• Serve cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla or pumpkin ice cream on top. The creamy texture balances the spiced cookie beautifully.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Present these cookies during holiday parties or gatherings. Their festive flavor will surely impress your guests and become a seasonal favorite.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle some caramel sauce over the frosted cookies. This adds a sweet, gooey texture that enhances their flavor.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure that your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are perfect every time, follow these helpful tips for baking success.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Softened butter and cream cheese mix more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and frosting.

• Don’t overmix: Gently mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined to maintain soft and tender cookies.

• Chill the dough if necessary: If your dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape.

• Check for doneness: Bake until the edges are set but the center remains soft. They will firm up as they cool, creating the perfect texture.

• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

While Pumpkin Sugar Cookies stand out on their own, pairing them with certain side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Spiced Chai Latte – A warm beverage infused with spices that complements the flavors of pumpkin perfectly.

2. Apple Crisp – A warm, crunchy dessert made from baked apples topped with oats and cinnamon; it pairs well with the creaminess of the frosting.

3. Carrot Sticks – Fresh carrot sticks add crunch and balance out sweetness while providing a healthy option alongside your treats.

4. Cheese Plate – Include mild cheeses such as brie or goat cheese which contrast nicely against the sweetness of the cookies.

5. Pumpkin Soup – A silky soup serves as an inviting appetizer before enjoying dessert, enhancing the overall pumpkin theme.

6. Nutty Granola Bars – These chewy bars offer a satisfying crunch, making them an excellent snack alongside cookies.

7. Cinnamon Hot Chocolate – A rich drink topped with whipped cream that pairs beautifully with spiced desserts like these cookies.

8. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness to your table and balances out richer flavors from desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Stir until just combined for a soft texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the cookie’s texture and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Skipping the cooling step: Frosting warm cookies can lead to a melted mess. Always let cookies cool completely before frosting.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese will not blend well, affecting the frosting’s texture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cool can change baking times. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Separate layers with parchment paper and wrap tightly to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds until warm but not hot.
• Stovetop: Warm cookies in a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make my pumpkin sugar cookies softer?

To achieve soft pumpkin sugar cookies, avoid overmixing the dough and ensure you use enough moisture from the pumpkin puree.

Can I use other frostings?

Yes! You can customize your frosting by using flavored cream cheese or adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze these pumpkin sugar cookies?

Absolutely! These pumpkin sugar cookies freeze well. Just make sure they are fully cooled and stored properly.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored correctly, these cookies can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Their soft texture combined with creamy frosting makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or different spices for a unique twist!