Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect treat for any occasion. Their soft and pillowy texture combined with creamy frosting makes them an irresistible delight. Ideal for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, these cookies offer a warm embrace of flavors that everyone will love. Plus, they are easy to whip up and sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a rich taste that lights up your palate.
• Simple to Prepare: With easy-to-follow steps, even novice bakers can create these delightful cookies effortlessly.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, they suit a variety of occasions.
• Frosting Fantasy: The cream cheese frosting adds a smooth and tangy finish that complements the sweetness of the cookie beautifully.
• Makes Plenty: This recipe yields 30 cookies, making it great for sharing or saving for later.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious pumpkin cookies, certain tools will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools save time and effort when mixing ingredients to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
• Baking sheet: A quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of your cookies.
• Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

To create these delightful pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, gather the following ingredients:

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 (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: Prep Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice until well combined. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of your stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat together the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes.

Add in the canned pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl if needed.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix. The dough should be sticky and soft.

Step 5: Scoop Cookie Dough

Using a medium cookie scoop or a spoon, scoop out heaping tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 13 to 15 minutes or until the edges are set while keeping the centers soft. Allow them to cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

For the frosting, beat together softened cream cheese and butter on medium-high speed until smooth—about 30 seconds. Add in vanilla extract followed by sifted confectioners’ sugar. Mix again just until combined—another 30 seconds should do.

Step 8: Frost Cookies

Once cooled, use an off-set spatula or knife to generously frost each pumpkin cookie with your creamy frosting. Finish by garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously spiced Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, perfect for sharing!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or wanting a sweet treat for yourself, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee pairs well with the sweetness of the cookies.
• Tea: A warm cup of herbal or chai tea complements the spices in the cookies beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: For a cozy treat, serve with hot chocolate topped with whipped cream.

As a Dessert Platter

• Assorted Fruits: Add fresh fruits like apple slices or berries for a refreshing contrast.
• Cheese Selection: Pair with mild cheeses to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
• Mini Pastries: Include small pastries for an elegant dessert spread.

At Celebrations

• Birthday Parties: Decorate cookies for festive occasions and serve them as a unique birthday treat.
• Holiday Gatherings: These cookies are perfect for autumn-themed events, adding seasonal flair to your table.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your pumpkin cookies is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Bold Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh pumpkin puree for better flavor and moisture.
• Bold Measure Flour Properly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup instead of scooping it directly to prevent dense cookies.
• Bold Chill Dough if Necessary: If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking.
• Bold Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; remove cookies when they are soft to maintain that fluffy texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

When enjoying pumpkin cookies, consider pairing them with delightful side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Bold Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg complement the cookie’s flavors nicely.
2. Bold Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the cookies.
3. Bold Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over cookies for an indulgent twist.
4. Bold Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider alongside for a cozy beverage pairing.
5. Bold Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing side that balances sweetness.
6. Bold Whipped Cream Dip: Have whipped cream dip available for those who love extra creaminess on their cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your results.

• Using the wrong flour: Always measure your flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while too little can make them too gooey.
• Not softening the butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature before mixing. Cold butter won’t blend well and will affect the texture of your cookies.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before moving them. This helps maintain their shape and prevents them from breaking.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, pillowy ones.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated properly. An incorrect temperature can result in uneven baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers 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 container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350° F and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds on low power.
• Stovetop: Place cookies on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, covered with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just make sure it is well-cooked and pureed until smooth.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you prefer.

How do I make my pumpkin cookies more flavorful?

Consider adding extra spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth and depth to your pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting.

Can I add chocolate chips to these cookies?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips would add a delicious twist to your pumpkin cookie recipe.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even experimenting with different spices. Try this recipe today and enjoy these melt-in-your-mouth treats!