Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. These cookies are soft, thick, and packed with warm spices, making them perfect for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. The sweet and tangy cream cheese frosting elevates these cookies to a new level of deliciousness, ensuring they become a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies come together quickly.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a rich and warm taste that defines fall.
• Perfect for Any Event: Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual get-together, these cookies fit right in.
• Versatile Topping: The cream cheese frosting can be easily customized with different flavors or toppings.
• Kid-Friendly: Enjoyed by both kids and adults, these cookies are sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients thoroughly.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures your frosting is smooth and creamy.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly.
• Refrigerator: Chilling the dough helps to maintain its shape while baking.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you will need the following 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 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 the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Incorporate the dry ingredients—flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt—into the wet mixture. Stir until a cookie dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 25 minutes. Chilling helps thicken the dough for better shaping.

Step 5: Shape Cookies

Remove the dough from the fridge. Roll it into approximately 1½ – 2 tbsp sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should get about 12-14 cookies.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 18 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

While cookies bake, prepare the frosting. Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until well combined. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Place frosting in the fridge while waiting for cookies to cool.

Step 8: Frost Cookies

Once cookies have cooled completely, spread about a tablespoon of cream cheese frosting on each one. Optionally sprinkle extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Serve these delicious Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies at your next gathering or enjoy them at home!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. These cookies are perfect for gatherings, cozy evenings, or simply enjoying with a hot drink.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair your cookies with a freshly brewed cup of coffee for a delicious morning treat.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a festive platter alongside other fall-themed desserts like apple pie or pumpkin bread for an impressive display.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Serve these cookies at holiday parties or family gatherings; they are sure to be a crowd favorite!

With Whipped Cream

• Top each cookie with a dollop of whipped cream for an added touch of sweetness and creaminess.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting is easy with a few simple tips. Here’s how to ensure your cookies are always soft and flavorful.

• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 25 minutes helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances flavor.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened properly so they mix smoothly for frosting.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time. The cookies should be slightly golden, but still soft in the center when you take them out.
• Add extra spices: For more depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch more pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon into both the cookie dough and frosting.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and softness.

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

Enjoying Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be even more delightful when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some tasty options:

1. Apple Cider
   A warm cup of apple cider pairs perfectly with the spices in these cookies, enhancing the fall experience.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

3. Hot Chocolate
   Cozy up with a rich cup of hot chocolate; its chocolatey sweetness contrasts nicely with the spicy flavors of the cookie.

4. Chai Tea
   The warm spices in chai tea complement the pumpkin spice flavor, creating an aromatic pairing that will warm you from within.

5. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzle caramel sauce over each cookie for an indulgent treat that brings out all those cozy flavors.

6. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad made from seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the cookies.

7. Cheese Board
   Create a cheese board featuring mild cheeses; their creamy textures provide a nice contrast to your sweet cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking pumpkin spice sugar cookies can be simple, but several common mistakes can prevent your cookies from turning out perfectly.

• Skipping the chill time: Not chilling the dough can lead to flat cookies. Always refrigerate for at least 25 minutes to help maintain their shape.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can result in tough cookies. Combine until just blended for a soft texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can burn or undercook your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Using fresh pumpkin instead of canned: Fresh pumpkin has more moisture, resulting in dense cookies. Stick with canned pumpkin for consistent results.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can ruin your cookie dough. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precision.

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.
• Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover it, and warm the cookies for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I ensure my Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are soft?

To keep your cookies soft, avoid overbaking and chill the dough before baking.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes! You can use gluten-free flour or plant-based butter if desired.

What is the best way to decorate my Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies?

Use a piping bag for intricate designs or simply spread frosting with a knife. Adding sprinkles or nuts can also enhance their look.

Can I make these Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and freeze it or bake the cookies and store them in the refrigerator before serving.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are delightful treats that capture the essence of fall. Their soft texture and flavorful spices make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize your cookies by adding nuts or using different spices. Try this recipe today!