Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect treat for any occasion. Their soft, pillowy texture and delightful flavor make them a hit at parties, family gatherings, or simply as a cozy dessert at home. With a rich cream cheese frosting that complements the warm spices of pumpkin, these cookies will surely impress anyone who tries them. The best part? They are easy to make and require simple ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s fall festivities or just a sweet snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Creamy Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a rich creaminess that takes these cookies to the next level.
• Freezer Friendly: You can make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these delicious pumpkin cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and ensure you don’t miss any steps.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools make it easy to beat butter and sugar together until fluffy, ensuring even mixing.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success; using the right tools helps maintain consistency.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

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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: Prepare Dry Ingredients

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

Set this dry mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer or using a hand mixer:
1. Beat together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the canned pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined. Scrape down the sides if necessary.
3. Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. The dough should be slightly sticky.

Step 4: Shape Cookies

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon:
* Scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
* Space cookies about 2 inches apart.

Step 5: Bake Cookies

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

Step 6: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

In a clean bowl, beat together:
1. Cream cheese and softened butter on medium-high speed until smooth, about 30 seconds.
2. Add vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar; mix again just until combined, about another 30 seconds.

Step 7: Frost Cookies

Once cookies are completely cooled:
* Use an off-set spatula or knife to frost each cookie with cream cheese frosting.
* Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve them. Here are some fun and creative ways to enjoy these delightful treats.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair your cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. The warmth of the drink complements the soft texture of the cookies perfectly.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other seasonal treats like apple slices or spiced nuts. This creates an inviting display for guests during gatherings.

At Fall Celebrations

• Serve these cookies at fall-themed parties, such as Halloween or Thanksgiving. Their pumpkin flavor makes them a festive addition to any autumn spread.

With Ice Cream

• Top your pumpkin cookies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The warm cookie and cold ice cream combination is simply heavenly.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your pumpkin cookies can turn good into great! Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps them blend smoothly and creates a better texture.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the flour mixture with wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to denser cookies.

• Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances their flavor.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. An inaccurate oven can result in undercooked or overbaked cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To complement your pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, consider serving them alongside these delightful side dishes.

1. Spiced Apple Slices: Thinly slice apples and sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar for a sweet crunch that pairs well with pumpkin flavors.

2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese can balance the sweetness of the cookies while adding savory notes.

3. Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate: Serve a warm mug of pumpkin spice hot chocolate for a rich and festive drink that matches your cookie’s flavor profile.

4. Maple Pecan Granola: Add some crunch by serving granola mixed with maple syrup and pecans as a topping option for your cookies.

5. Caramel Dip: Offer a warm caramel dip on the side, perfect for drizzling over or dipping those soft cookies.

6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: For a heartier side, roasted sweet potatoes seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg echo the spices in the cookies beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can seem simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time.

• Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and eggs. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense texture instead of the desired fluffiness.
• Overmixing the dough: Once you add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use a spoon to fluff up the flour before spooning it into your measuring cup. Scooping directly can compress it, resulting in too much flour and dry cookies.
• Skipping chilling time: If your dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking. This helps firm up the dough and makes scooping easier.
• Neglecting cooling time: Allow cookies to cool on the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set properly without breaking apart.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350° F. Warm cookies for about 5-10 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat and warm covered for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time?

You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, consider using vegan cream cheese or a coconut-based alternative that fits your taste.

How do I store leftover Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness and flavor retention.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit for added texture and flavor variations.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are delightful treats that blend warmth and sweetness perfectly. Their soft, pillowy texture makes them perfect for fall gatherings or any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins or spices! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!