Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect treat to celebrate the fall season. With their soft texture and delightful spice blend, they are ideal for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings, or as a sweet surprise for friends and family. The creamy frosting elevates these cookies, making them a festive addition to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can whip up these delicious cookies without fuss.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a cozy night in with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Frosting Perfection: The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that complements the spiced cookies beautifully.
• Make Ahead Option: These cookies can be made in advance and stored, making them great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar quick and effortless, ensuring a light cookie texture.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, making cleanup easy.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

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.

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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.

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 everything is fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Sheets

Scoop dough using a tablespoon or cookie scoop. Drop onto prepared baking sheets with enough space between each cookie.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake for about 10–12 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

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

Step 9: Mix in Remaining Frosting Ingredients

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

Step 10: Frost Cookies

Once cookies are completely cool, frost generously with your cream cheese mixture before serving. Enjoy!

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. Whether for a cozy gathering or a simple snack, serving them right enhances their charm.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee. The spices in the cookies complement the rich flavors of the coffee perfectly.

At a Fall Gathering

• Present these cookies at your next fall event. Their festive appearance and delicious taste make them a hit among guests.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include these cookies on a dessert platter with other fall-themed treats. Pair them with mini pumpkin pies or spiced cupcakes for variety.

With Ice Cream

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

How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips for achieving the best results:

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and results in thicker cookies.

• Use Fresh Spices: Opt for freshly ground spices instead of pre-packaged ones. Fresh spices enhance flavor and aroma significantly.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. Baking at the right temperature is crucial for even cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

When serving Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Chai Tea
   A warm cup of spiced chai tea pairs beautifully, enhancing the autumn flavors found in the cookies.

2. Apple Cider
   Hot apple cider offers a refreshing contrast and complements the sweetness and spice of the cookies perfectly.

3. Pumpkin Soup
   A creamy pumpkin soup provides a savory balance, making it an excellent starter before indulging in sweet treats.

4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses, especially creamy varieties like brie or goat cheese, can provide a nice savory touch alongside sweet cookies.

5. Caramel Sauce
   Serve caramel sauce for dipping; its rich flavor adds another layer of indulgence to your cookie experience.

6. Raw Veggie Platter
   Keep things balanced by offering fresh veggies like carrots and celery, providing crunch between bites of sweet cookies.

7. Chocolate Milkshake
   A thick chocolate milkshake is indulgent and fun, making it a perfect drink to enjoy with these festive cookies.

8. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad can offer freshness and brightness, balancing out the richness of the frosting on your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese can lead to a lumpy frosting. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and tender.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour results in dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Frosting warm cookies can cause the frosting to melt. Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting for the best texture.
• Skipping the Spices: Spices add warmth and depth of flavor. Don’t skip them; they’re essential for that classic pumpkin cookie taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will last up to one week while maintaining freshness.

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be stored for up to three months.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes to warm through.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm gently on low heat in a non-stick pan, covered, for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making these delightful cookies, you’re not alone. Here are some frequently asked questions.

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

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.

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

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different frostings like chocolate or vanilla buttercream for variety.

What should I do if my frosting is too runny?

Add more powdered sugar gradually until you achieve your desired thickness.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only soft and spiced but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or different spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the flavors of fall!