Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect treat for any occasion. Soft, fluffy, and topped with creamy frosting, they bring the warm flavors of fall to your table. Ideal for parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress everyone. Their delightful taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a standout dessert that is both easy to make and utterly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spice creates a comforting taste that many love.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even beginner bakers can whip these up quickly.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields about 30 cookies, making it great for parties or potlucks.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert or a sweet snack throughout the day.
• Customizable Frosting: Add your favorite spices or toppings to personalize the cream cheese frosting.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking these delightful cookies, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Off-set spatula or knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools help achieve a fluffy dough by properly incorporating air into the mixture.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents warping in high heat.
• Parchment paper: It prevents cookies from sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

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Ingredients

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting melt in your mouth with each bite. They are easy to make and pillowy soft!

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. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Pumpkin pie spice

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of your stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), combine:
– Unsalted butter
– Granulated sugar
– Light brown sugar

Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Pumpkin Mixture

Add in:
– Canned pumpkin purée
– Large egg
– Pure vanilla extract

Mix until well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; expect a sticky dough.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Place in the oven and bake for 13 to 15 minutes until edges are set but cookies remain soft. Allow them to cool on the pan briefly before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

In another bowl, beat together:
– Softened cream cheese
– Softened unsalted butter

Mix until smooth. Add in:
– Pure vanilla extract
– Sifted confectioners’ sugar

Mix again until combined.

Step 9: Frost Cookies

Once cookies are cooled completely, use an off-set spatula or knife to frost each cookie generously with cream cheese frosting. Optionally sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.

Enjoy these delightful pumpkin cookies at any gathering or simply as a sweet treat at home!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delightful pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy fall gathering or a festive holiday party, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the sweet, spicy flavors of the cookies perfectly.

Add a Side of Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream can enhance the dessert experience and add a lovely texture.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Slices of apple, pear, or even berries provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies alongside other treats like brownies or mini cheesecakes for an impressive dessert spread.

Garnish with Nuts

• Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top add crunch and depth to your pumpkin cookies.

Offer Tea Options

• Herbal teas, such as chai or cinnamon-spiced blends, pair beautifully with the flavors in these cookies.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading while baking.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature allows for better mixing and texture.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies; too much flour can lead to dryness.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can make the cookies tough instead of soft.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to guarantee proper baking temperature for even results.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allowing cookies to cool prevents the frosting from melting and losing its shape.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving these pumpkin cookies can be even more enjoyable when paired with complementary side dishes. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Apple Crisp: A warm and spiced dessert that pairs well with the soft texture of pumpkin cookies.

2. Caramel Pudding Cups: Creamy caramel pudding adds sweetness and richness that balances the cookie flavors.

3. Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels: These crunchy snacks provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

4. Chocolate Chip Muffins: Soft muffins filled with chocolate chips create a delicious sweet pairing.

5. Honey Roasted Nuts: Sweet and crunchy nuts make for an excellent snack alongside your pumpkin treats.

6. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses offers savory notes that delicately counterbalance the sweetness of the cookies.

7. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite is not only thematic but also enhances the overall pumpkin flavor experience.

8. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich pumpkin cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls you should avoid.

• Bold ingredient measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to dense or dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Bold overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make the cookies tough. Mix just until combined for soft and fluffy results.
• Bold incorrect baking time: Baking for too long can result in hard cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove when edges are set.
• Bold using warm ingredients: If your butter or egg is too warm, it can affect the cookie texture. Use room temperature ingredients for best results.
• Bold skipping frosting cooling: Frosting warm cookies can melt the cream cheese frosting. Let cookies cool completely before frosting them.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze.
• Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag once frozen. They can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a pan on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting.

Can I use different types of flour for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or whole wheat flour, but the texture may vary slightly.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Cookies are done?

Your cookies are done when the edges are set but the centers still look soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make Pumpkin Cookies without cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! You can enjoy these cookies plain or with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.

What variations can I try for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits like cranberries for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are not only soft and delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding mix-ins or trying different frostings. Whether it’s a cozy fall treat or an everyday dessert, these cookies are sure to impress. Try them out and enjoy every bite!