Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. Soft, pillowy, and bursting with warm spices, they are perfect for any occasion—from cozy gatherings to festive celebrations. The creamy frosting adds an irresistible touch, making these cookies a standout dessert that you can easily whip up in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The steps are simple and straightforward, allowing even novice bakers to create delicious cookies.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices offers a comforting taste that warms the heart.
• Versatile Enjoyment: These cookies are great for parties, holidays, or as a sweet snack any day of the week.
• Soft Texture: Each cookie is soft and chewy, melting in your mouth with every bite.
• Creamy Frosting: The cream cheese frosting elevates the cookies, adding richness and flavor that perfectly complements the pumpkin.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy texture for the cookie dough easily.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking of cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

Ingredients

To make these mouthwatering pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, gather the following ingredients:

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 (1 brick or 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 for later use.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
* All-purpose flour
* Baking powder
* Baking soda
* Salt
* Pumpkin pie spice

Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer or using a hand mixer:
1. Beat together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes.
2. Add in canned pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined. Scrape down any mixture from the sides if needed.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined; your dough should be slightly sticky.

Step 5: Scoop Cookies onto Baking Sheet

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon:
1. Scoop out heaping tablespoons of dough.
2. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet with about 2 inches of space between each one.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 13 to 15 minutes. The edges should be set while the centers remain soft. Allow them to cool slightly on the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

In another mixing bowl:
1. Beat together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter on medium-high speed until smooth—around 30 seconds.
2. Add vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar; mix again until just combined—around 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 your delightful batch of pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy night at home, these cookies will impress everyone.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair your pumpkin cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a comforting experience. The rich flavors of the coffee complement the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

As an After-Dinner Dessert

• Serve these cookies as a delightful dessert after dinner. Their soft texture and creamy frosting make them an ideal sweet treat to finish off any meal.

At Fall Gatherings

• Bring these cookies to fall gatherings or potlucks. Their seasonal flavor is sure to be a hit among friends and family, making them a festive addition to any table.

With a Glass of Milk

• Enjoy your pumpkin cookies with a cold glass of milk. The creamy texture of the frosting pairs wonderfully with the smoothness of milk, enhancing the overall taste experience.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your pumpkin cookies are soft and flavorful, here are some helpful tips to consider during preparation.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps them blend more easily, creating a smooth batter.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to wet ones. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies instead of the desired soft texture.

• Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This can help prevent spreading and result in thicker cookies.

• Watch Baking Time Carefully: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them from the oven when they are just set around the edges to maintain softness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These pumpkin cookies pair well with several side dishes that enhance their flavors and create an inviting spread. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Creamy Soup: A bowl of butternut squash or carrot soup makes for a warm and hearty pairing that complements the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter: Include a selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside crackers for a savory contrast to the sweet flavors.

3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring apples, pears, and citrus adds freshness and balances out the richness of the cookie’s frosting.

4. Spiced Nuts: Serve roasted spiced nuts as a crunchy side option. Their savory notes enhance the overall flavor profile while providing textural variety.

5. Pumpkin Spice Latte: For an extra indulgent treat, offer this popular beverage alongside your cookies; its flavors harmonize beautifully with pumpkin desserts.

6. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream served next to warm pumpkin cookies creates an irresistible combination that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can result in lumpy frosting and uneven cookie texture.

• Boldly Ignoring the Flour Measurement: Too much flour can make your cookies dry. Always spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.

• Boldly Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can lead to tougher cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and pillowy.

• Boldly Underbaking or Overbaking: Baking time is crucial! Remove the cookies when edges are set but centers are still soft for perfect results.

• Boldly Not Cooling Cookies Before Frosting: Frosting warm cookies can melt your frosting. Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before applying icing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Make sure it’s cooked down and has the same consistency as canned puree for optimal results.

How do I make my cream cheese frosting fluffier?

To achieve fluffier frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter longer until light and airy. Adding a bit of milk can also help achieve that desired texture.

What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?

You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper structure in your cookies.

How should I store leftover cream cheese frosting?

Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting offer a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. Their soft texture makes them perfect for fall gatherings or any occasion! Feel free to customize by adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra treat!