Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat, perfect for any fall gathering or cozy evening at home. Their soft texture and spiced flavor profile make them a favorite among cookie lovers. Topped with creamy frosting, these cookies bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion, ensuring they are a hit with friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that defines the fall season.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect as a dessert for gatherings, holiday parties, or just a sweet snack at home.
• Frosting Perfection: The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that complements the cookie’s flavor beautifully.
• Great for Sharing: With 24 cookies per batch, they’re ideal for sharing with loved ones or taking to potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, having the right tools will make your baking experience smoother. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar quick and easy for a light texture.
• Baking sheets: Provides a flat surface for even baking of cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

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 bake evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

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

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until all ingredients are fully combined into a smooth mixture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well mixed.

Step 5: Mix Dry into Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Sheets

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto prepared baking sheets. Space them evenly to allow room for spreading.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set. The tops should no longer look wet. Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

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

Step 9: Sweeten Up Your Frosting

Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy. Adjust consistency if needed by adding more powdered sugar or a drop of milk.

Step 10: Frost Cookies

Once cookies have completely cooled down, frost them generously with your cream cheese frosting before serving. Enjoy!

With these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting in hand, you’re ready to embrace fall flavors in every bite!

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair these cookies with your favorite coffee for a warm, comforting treat. The spices in the cookie complement the rich flavors of coffee beautifully.

At a Fall Gathering

• Serve these cookies at your next autumn gathering. Their festive appearance and delicious taste make them perfect for celebrations and potlucks.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter alongside other fall desserts like pumpkin pie or apple crisp. This creates an inviting dessert spread for guests.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Top each cookie with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The combination of warm cookies and cold ice cream is simply irresistible.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh baking powder and spices for the best flavor and texture.
• Measure Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate measurements, especially for flour and sugar.
• Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients to maintain a tender cookie texture.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow cookies to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting the cream cheese frosting.
• Store Properly: Keep frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with these cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options.

1. Spiced Chai Latte – A warm drink infused with spices that pairs perfectly with the flavors of pumpkin.
2. Pumpkin Soup – A creamy pumpkin soup can create a cohesive autumn theme when served alongside cookies.
3. Apple Cider – Serve warm apple cider for a classic fall beverage that complements sweet treats beautifully.
4. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses, especially creamy varieties, balances sweetness and adds richness to your dessert table.
5. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad adds freshness and contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the cookies.
6. Caramel Dipping Sauce – Offer a small bowl of caramel sauce for dipping; it enhances the flavor profile while adding fun!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be a joy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure that butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth batter and frosting.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Stir until just combined to keep them soft and tender.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing cookies to cool before frosting is crucial. If they’re warm, the frosting may melt and slide off.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate flour measurement. Too much flour can make cookies dry.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. Overbaking can make them hard instead of soft.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze cookies without frosting for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for best results.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm cookies for about 5 minutes for the best texture.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious, as they can become chewy if overheated.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it briefly to warm through without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use pumpkin spice instead of individual spices?

Yes! You can replace the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with pumpkin spice blend for convenience.

How can I customize the frosting?

Feel free to add orange zest or spices like cinnamon to the cream cheese frosting for extra flavor.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

You can substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use flaxseed meal instead of egg yolk to make them vegan-friendly.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Look for set edges and a slightly soft center. They will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Can I decorate these cookies?

Absolutely! Use sprinkles, nuts, or edible glitter on top of the frosting for a festive touch.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delightful but adaptable for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore new flavors and decorations, these cookies will surely impress family and friends. Try them out and enjoy a taste of fall!