Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that will melt in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are soft, pillowy, and packed with the warm flavors of fall. The creamy frosting adds a luscious touch, making them irresistible whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a cozy snack at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies come together quickly, perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich pumpkin puree combined with warm spices creates a comforting flavor that is hard to resist.
• Perfectly Soft Texture: These cookies are designed to be soft and fluffy, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for fall celebrations, holiday gatherings, or just as an everyday treat to enjoy with coffee or tea.
• Creamy Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a delightful tanginess that complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking these pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

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: These tools make it easy to cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, which is essential for the right cookie texture.
• Baking Sheet: A good baking sheet ensures even baking and helps prevent cookies from sticking.
• Cookie Scoop or Spoon: Using a cookie scoop allows for uniform cookie sizes, ensuring they bake evenly.

Ingredients

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are made from simple yet flavorful ingredients that you’ll love.

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 to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Pumpkin pie spice
Set aside once combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of your stand mixer or using a hand mixer:
1. Beat the room temperature butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
2. Add in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently add the flour mixture to your wet ingredients:
– Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix—the dough should be slightly sticky and soft.

Step 5: Scoop onto Baking Sheet

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

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes:
– Look for edges that are set while keeping the centers soft and fluffy.
– Let cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

For the frosting:
1. Beat softened cream cheese and butter on medium-high speed until smooth—about 30 seconds.
2. Mix in vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar until combined—another 30 seconds should do.

Step 8: Frost Cookies

Once cooled:
– Use an off-set spatula or knife to frost each cookie generously.
– Garnish with an extra sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice if desired before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a cozy snack, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Enjoy your pumpkin cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee. The rich flavors of the coffee complement the sweetness of the frosting beautifully.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a dessert platter with other fall-themed treats like mini pies or apple cider donuts for a festive touch.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add an extra layer of indulgence by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the frosted cookies. This combination creates a delicious sweet and salty contrast.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the cream cheese frosting for added texture and flavor. Nuts enhance the overall taste and provide a satisfying crunch.

Served with Whipped Cream

• Pair your pumpkin cookies with a dollop of whipped cream for an added creamy element that complements the frosting perfectly.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your pumpkin cookies is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill the Dough (if needed): If your dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking. This helps in shaping perfect cookies.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures. An uneven or incorrect temperature might affect how your cookies bake.

• Frost After Cooling: Always let your cookies cool completely before frosting them to prevent melting and ensure beautiful presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

When serving pumpkin cookies, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance the experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Apple Cider: The sweet and tangy flavor of apple cider pairs perfectly with pumpkin cookies, making it an ideal fall beverage.

2. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite enhances the autumn vibe while complementing the flavors in your cookies.

3. Chai Tea: The spices in chai tea marry well with pumpkin flavors, creating a warm and cozy pairing for your dessert.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and buttery flavor provide a savory contrast to sweet pumpkin cookies.

5. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites deliver rich creaminess that pairs well with the lightness of frosted pumpkin cookies.

6. Candied Ginger: A zesty kick from candied ginger can brighten up your cookie experience, adding an unexpected twist.

7. Nutmeg-Spiced Applesauce: This simple side dish adds moisture and complements the spiced flavor profile of the cookies beautifully.

8. Maple Syrup Dipping Sauce: A small dish of maple syrup offers an additional sweet dipping option that enhances each bite of cookie bliss.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can be simple, but there are some common mistakes that can ruin your baking experience. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Incorrect Measurements: Using too much or too little flour can lead to cookies that are either too dry or too wet. Always measure ingredients accurately using the spoon and level method for flour.

• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the texture of your cookies. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can cause tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and pillowy.

• Not Cooling the Cookies Properly: Transferring cookies to a wire rack too soon can cause them to break apart. Allow them to cool on the pan for a few minutes before moving them.

• Inadequate Frosting Consistency: If your cream cheese frosting is too runny, it won’t hold up well on the cookies. Ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened but still cool for the right consistency.

• Ignoring Baking Times: Each oven is different; relying solely on time can lead to overbaking. Check your cookies a minute or two before the suggested time for perfect results.

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 un-frosted cookies in a single layer for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, covering briefly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

You can use fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-drained to achieve the right consistency in your cookies.

How do I make my cream cheese frosting fluffier?

Mix your frosting longer until it’s light and airy, ensuring both cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before you start.

Can I add chocolate chips to pumpkin cookies?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips make a delicious addition and complement the flavors of pumpkin beautifully.

How do I store leftover pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting offer an irresistible taste and texture that is perfect for fall gatherings or any dessert occasion. They are easy to customize by adding nuts or chocolate chips based on your preference. Try this recipe today and enjoy these delightful treats!