Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are the perfect treat for any occasion. With their soft, pillowy texture and delightful cream cheese topping, they bring the cozy flavors of fall to your table. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, these cookies are great for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Plus, they’re a wonderful way to use canned pumpkin puree!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously soft texture: These cookies melt in your mouth, providing a delightful eating experience.
• Quick preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this sweet treat in no time.
• Versatile serving options: Perfect for parties, holiday celebrations, or afternoon snacks.
• Flavorful frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy contrast to the sweet pumpkin cookies.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love these cookies—kids and adults alike can’t resist them!

Tools and Preparation

To create these delightful pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Essential for achieving that light and fluffy butter-sugar mixture that makes your cookies soft.
• Mixing bowls: Helps keep your ingredients organized while you prepare your dough.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking multiple cookies at once.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the cookies so they cool evenly without getting soggy.

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. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer or using a hand mixer:
1. Beat together the room temperature unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy—this should take about 3 minutes.
2. Add in the canned pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl if necessary.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Carefully add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture:
– Mix just until combined. The dough will be slightly sticky and soft.

Step 5: Scoop Cookies

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon:
– Scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake at 350°F for about 13 to 15 minutes:
– The edges should be set while keeping the centers soft and fluffy.
– 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

In a clean mixing bowl:
1. Beat together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter on medium-high speed until smooth—this should take about 30 seconds.
2. Add in vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar; mix again until well combined—about another 30 seconds.

Step 8: Frost Cookies

Once cooled:
– Use an offset spatula or knife to spread cream cheese frosting over each cookie.
– Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired before serving.

Enjoy these delicious pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting! They’re sure to become a favorite treat in your household.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are delightful on their own, but serving them in creative ways can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some fun ideas to enjoy these tasty treats.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pairing your cookies with a hot cup of coffee complements the flavors beautifully. The warmth of the coffee enhances the spices in the cookie, making for a comforting treat.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your frosted pumpkin cookies alongside other fall-inspired desserts like apple pie or pecan tarts. This creates a festive dessert platter perfect for gatherings or holiday celebrations.

On a Cozy Autumn Picnic

• Take your cookies outdoors! Pack them along with some hot cider and enjoy a cozy picnic under the changing leaves. The combination of flavors will make for an unforgettable autumn outing.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each cookie with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence. This adds a lightness that balances the rich cream cheese frosting.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips. They will help you achieve that ideal texture and flavor.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even mixing.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.

• Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of soft and tender ones.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Let your cookies cool on a wire rack before applying frosting. Frosting warm cookies can cause it to melt and slide off.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with pumpkin cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options to consider when serving these delightful treats.

1. Chai Latte: The spiced flavor of chai complements the pumpkin perfectly, making it an ideal beverage choice alongside your cookies.

2. Fall Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and pomegranates adds brightness to balance the richness of the cookies.

3. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses such as brie or gouda pairs well with sweet flavors, creating an interesting contrast when enjoyed together.

4. Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish’s creamy texture and sweetness echo the flavors in pumpkin recipes, making it a comforting side option.

5. Maple Glazed Carrots: The sweetness from maple syrup enhances the fall flavors, creating harmony between savory and sweet tastes on your plate.

6. Nutty Granola: Serve some homemade granola sprinkled over yogurt as a crunchy side dish that complements the soft texture of pumpkin cookies nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final product.

• Incorrect Flour Measurement: Using too much or too little flour can lead to cookies that are either dense or too soft. Always use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too long after adding the flour can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Not Chilling the Dough: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Chill for at least 30 minutes for better shape.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Frosting warm cookies can cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting.
• Using Softened Cream Cheese: If your cream cheese is too soft, it won’t whip up nicely. Ensure it’s softened but still cool for the best consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze cookies without frosting for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a bag.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie on high for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting fluffier?

To achieve fluffier cookies, ensure that your butter is at room temperature and avoid overmixing your dough after adding flour.

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

Yes! You can use coconut oil instead of butter or add nuts and chocolate chips for extra flavor.

How long will Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting last?

These cookies can last up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

It’s best to freeze the cookies without frosting. Once thawed, you can frost them after reheating them slightly.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even different spices. They make a perfect treat for any occasion—give them a try!