Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that will make any occasion special. Their soft, pillowy texture and rich flavor make them perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings, or a simple dessert to enjoy at home. With the sweet cream cheese frosting on top, these cookies offer a unique twist that elevates them beyond your average cookie recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The straightforward process ensures that even novice bakers can whip up these cookies with confidence.
• Irresistibly Soft: The addition of pumpkin puree gives these cookies their signature soft and chewy texture.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or an afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Deliciously Frosted: The creamy frosting adds the perfect finishing touch, making each bite a heavenly experience.
• Fall Flavor: Pumpkin pie spice brings warmth and comfort, making these cookies a seasonal favorite.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your pumpkin cookies, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will help streamline the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Offset spatula or knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: This tool makes it easy to achieve the fluffy texture needed for the cookies and frosting.
• Mixing bowls: A set of mixing bowls allows you to keep your dry and wet ingredients separate until it’s time to combine them.
• Cookie scoop or spoon: Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Ingredients

To make these delicious pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, you will need 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.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
– Flour,
– Baking powder,
– Baking soda,
– Salt,
– Pumpkin pie spice.

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of your stand mixer or using a hand mixer, beat together:
– Unsalted butter,
– Granulated sugar,
– Light brown sugar.

Mix on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in:
– Canned pumpkin puree,
– Egg,
– Vanilla extract.

Mix until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix. The dough should be sticky and soft.

Step 6: Scoop the Cookies

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, scoop a heaping tablespoon of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 13 to 15 minutes, until the edges are set and they remain soft in the center. Allow cooling on the pan briefly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

In a clean mixing bowl, beat together:
– Softened cream cheese,
– Softened butter,

Mix on medium-high speed until smooth for about 30 seconds. Add vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar; mix just until combined.

Step 9: Frost Your Cookies

Once cooled, use an offset spatula or knife to spread frosting over each cookie. Optionally sprinkle some cinnamon on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can elevate any gathering or celebration. These delightful cookies are perfect for sharing and can be enjoyed in various creative ways.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Tea: The spices in the cookies complement herbal teas beautifully, enhancing the experience.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy them alongside rich hot chocolate for a sweet and comforting combination.

As part of a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment: Add these cookies to a platter with other baked goods like brownies or bars for a festive touch.
• Fruit and Cheese Board: Include pumpkin cookies on a board with seasonal fruits and soft cheeses for an elegant dessert option.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Thanksgiving Dessert Table: These cookies are a wonderful addition to any Thanksgiving spread, bringing seasonal flavors to the table.
• Halloween Treats: Serve them as festive treats during Halloween parties, perhaps decorated with fun toppings.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold Measurement Accuracy: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Bold Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and creamy frosting.
• Bold Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can result in tougher cookies.
• Bold Baking Time Monitoring: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be soft but set at the edges when done.
• Bold Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cookies to cool completely before applying frosting for the best texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors and textures. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an indulgent twist that enhances their flavor.
3. Roasted Nuts: Serve mixed roasted nuts on the side for added crunch and savory contrast.
4. Spiced Chai Latte: A cup of spiced chai latte brings warmth and aromatic flavors that align beautifully with pumpkin spices.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers freshness, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the rich frosting.
6. Cheese Plate: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside crackers to create a sophisticated pairing with your treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you perfect your baking!

• Incorrect Measurement: Using too much or too little flour can change the texture. Always measure ingredients accurately using a scale or proper measuring cups.

• Overmixing Dough: Mixing the cookie dough too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft and fluffy results.

• Skipping Cooling Time: Not allowing cookies to cool can result in a messy frosting application. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

• Using Warm Ingredients: Using warm butter or eggs can affect the dough consistency. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

• Not Preheating Oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking throughout.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze cookies without frosting for best results.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, layered with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat for a minute or two, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting that may help guide your baking journey.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it is well-drained and smooth for consistent texture.

How do I make my cream cheese frosting fluffier?

Beating the cream cheese and butter together until smooth before adding sugar will create a fluffier frosting.

Can I substitute other spices for pumpkin pie spice?

Absolutely! You can mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if you prefer different flavor profiles in your pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting.

How long do these cookies last after baking?

Stored properly, these cookies will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are a delightfully soft treat that is perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize the flavors and toppings as you like. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!