Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect treat to celebrate the fall season. Soft, spiced, and topped with a creamy frosting, these cookies are ideal for gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying at home. The combination of warm autumn spices and a tangy cream cheese frosting makes them a standout dessert that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a comforting taste that’s perfect for fall.
• Soft Texture: These cookies are soft and chewy, making them delightful to eat.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy afternoons at home.
• Frosted Perfection: The cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy sweetness that complements the cookies beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

To create these tasty Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar faster and easier for a fluffy texture.
• Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy surface for baking cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.

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) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies won’t stick while baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin Puree

Add in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully combined for a smooth cookie dough.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined.

Step 5: Mix Dry into Wet

Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can make your cookies tough.

Step 6: Scoop Dough

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dollops of dough onto prepared baking sheets. Space them evenly apart so they have room to spread while baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes or until edges are set but centers look soft. Let them cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cookies cool down completely, prepare the frosting by beating together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.

Step 9: Add Remaining Frosting Ingredients

Add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Beat until you achieve a light and fluffy consistency. If needed, adjust thickness with more powdered sugar or a drop of milk.

Step 10: Frost Cookies

Once your cookies are cooled completely, generously frost each one with your delicious cream cheese frosting. Serve them fresh or store in an airtight container!

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delightful Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just treating yourself, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Hot Apple Cider: Pair your cookies with warm apple cider for a cozy autumn treat.
• Pumpkin Spice Latte: The flavors of pumpkin spice complement the cookies perfectly, making this a festive choice.
• Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can balance the sweetness of the cookies and provide a comforting experience.

At a Gathering

• Cookie Platter: Arrange your cookies on a platter alongside other baked goods for an inviting dessert table.
• Party Favors: Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons for guests to take home as sweet memories.
• Themed Decor: Use autumn-themed decorations to enhance the presentation when serving these cookies at fall parties.

As a Dessert Option

• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to create ice cream sandwiches for an indulgent twist.
• Layered Desserts: Crumble cookies over cake or pudding layers for an exciting dessert presentation.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out wonderfully every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother frosting.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies; they should be soft and tender.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking; this helps maintain shape during baking.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake; they should be set around the edges but still soft in the center.
• Store Properly: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness, or refrigerate if frosted.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

When enjoying Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, consider pairing them with side dishes that complement their flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Butternut Squash: Sweet and savory roasted butternut squash adds a seasonal touch to your meal.
2. Spiced Nuts: A mix of spiced nuts provides crunch and flavor contrast, enhancing your cookie experience.
3. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad balances sweetness and adds brightness to your dessert spread.
4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese that pair well with sweet cookies.
5. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup can serve as a delightful starter before indulging in dessert.
6. Caramel Dip with Apples: Fresh apple slices dipped in caramel provide a fun and sweet contrast alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be a fun experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape. Without it, they may spread too much while baking.
• Using too much flour: Measuring flour incorrectly can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurement.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and tender.
• Not letting cookies cool completely before frosting: Frosting warm cookies can cause the frosting to melt. Allow them to cool completely for the best results.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold butter or cream cheese can affect texture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices?

Yes, you can substitute pumpkin pie spice for ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Use about 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice for this recipe.

How do I ensure my frosting is smooth?

Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. Beat until smooth and creamy before adding powdered sugar.

How long do Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting last?

These cookies can last up to one week in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts if desired. Perfect for fall gatherings or any time you’re craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to delight friends and family alike!