Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect treat for any celebration or cozy evening at home. With their soft, pillowy texture and a luscious cream cheese frosting, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they are ideal for autumn gatherings or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The warm spices and pumpkin create a comforting taste that’s perfect for fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are beginner-friendly.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect as dessert, a snack, or even for special occasions like birthdays or holidays.
• Irresistible Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, creamy finish that enhances the overall experience.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are loved by both kids and adults alike, making them great for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make these pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will ensure smooth preparation and baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes it easy to achieve a light and fluffy cookie dough without much effort.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface ensures even baking of your cookies, helping them maintain their shape.
• Wire rack: Allows cookies to cool properly, preventing them from becoming soggy on the bottom.

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

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. The flour,
2. Baking powder,
3. Baking soda,
4. Salt,
5. Pumpkin pie spice.
Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough

In the bowl of a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat together:
1. Unsalted butter,
2. Granulated sugar,
3. Light brown sugar
on medium-high speed until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes.
Add:
4. Canned pumpkin puree,
5. The egg,
6. Vanilla extract
and mix until combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl if necessary. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix just until combined; the dough will be slightly sticky.

Step 4: Scoop the Dough

Use a medium cookie scoop (or a spoon) to scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes or until edges are set but cookies remain soft and fluffy. Let cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

In another mixing bowl, beat together:
1. Cream cheese,
2. Softened butter
on medium-high speed until smooth—about 30 seconds.
Add:
3. Vanilla extract,
4. Confectioners’ sugar
and mix again just until combined—about 30 more seconds.

Step 7: Frost the Cookies

Once cooled, use an offset spatula or knife to frost each cookie generously with cream cheese frosting. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon if desired and serve!

Enjoy these delightful pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting at any event or just as an everyday indulgence!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies can be served with delightful pairings to enhance their flavor.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite coffee. The rich flavors of pumpkin and spices complement the boldness of the brew perfectly.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange pumpkin cookies on a dessert platter with other sweet treats like brownies and fruit tarts for an inviting display at gatherings.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie for an extra creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese frosting.

For Afternoon Tea

• Serve these cookies during afternoon tea alongside herbal teas or spiced chai for a warm and comforting experience.

Paired with Ice Cream

• Top each cookie with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delicious dessert sundae that blends flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Creating the perfect pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to enhance your baking experience.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter and better texture in the cookies.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately. This prevents dense cookies caused by too much flour.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined after adding the flour mixture. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and fluffy ones.

• Chill Dough if Necessary: If your dough seems too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to scoop and shape.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with pumpkin cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some suggestions that complement their flavors well.

1. Spiced Chai Latte
   This warm beverage’s spices echo those in the pumpkin cookies, making it a perfect match!

2. Apple Cider
   Hot or cold apple cider offers sweet and tangy notes that balance the richness of the frosting.

3. Cheese Board
   A selection of mild cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits creates an enjoyable contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.

4. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzling caramel sauce over the cookies adds another layer of sweetness that pairs well with pumpkin flavors.

5. Vanilla Yogurt
   A dollop of vanilla yogurt provides creaminess and tang, enhancing the taste while keeping it light.

6. Pumpkin Spice Latte
   This seasonal favorite mirrors the cookie’s flavors while providing a cozy drink option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can be simple, but a few common errors can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and frosting.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined for soft, pillowy cookies.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents dense cookies.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow cookies to cool on the pan before transferring them. This helps them set properly and keeps them from breaking.
• Frosting warm cookies: Frost only after your cookies have completely cooled to avoid melting the icing.

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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 unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• For frosted cookies, freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a container with parchment paper between layers. They will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious, as they can become too soft quickly.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat; cover briefly for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your dough.

How do I know when my pumpkin cookies are done?

Look for set edges and a soft center. They should not be shiny or wet when done baking.

Can I make these pumpkin cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

How can I customize my pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit into the cookie dough for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust flavors or toppings based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful taste of fall!