Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect treat for any autumn occasion. Soft and spiced, these cookies are topped with a creamy frosting that balances sweetness and tang. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply craving something sweet, these cookies will delight everyone who tries them. Their festive flavors and inviting aroma make them a go-to recipe for the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple instructions and common ingredients, these cookies come together quickly.
• Deliciously Spiced: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves provides a warm flavor profile that embodies fall.
• Perfect for Sharing: Yielding 24 cookies, they’re great for parties, potlucks, or as a thoughtful gift.
• Creamy Frosting: The tangy cream cheese frosting adds a delightful contrast to the spiced cookies.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as is or customize with different toppings like sprinkles or nuts.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without mess.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy texture in both cookie dough and frosting effortlessly.
• Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking cookies to perfection.
• Cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly without getting soggy on the bottom.

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Ingredients

To make these delicious Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you will need the following ingredients:

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 step ensures that your cookies bake evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2–3 minutes using an electric mixer.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined. This mixture is key to creating moist cookies filled with pumpkin goodness.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mixing these spices thoroughly will ensure even distribution throughout your cookie dough.

Step 5: Mix Dry Into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to your wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix as this can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Scoop out dough using a tablespoon or cookie scoop. Drop them onto prepared baking sheets while spacing them evenly apart to allow room for spreading during baking.

Step 7: Bake

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

Step 8: Make the Frosting

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

Step 9: Add Sweetness

Gradually incorporate powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and a pinch of salt into your cream cheese mixture. Beat until it reaches a light and fluffy consistency.

Step 10: Frost Your Cookies

Once cookies are fully cooled down, frost each one generously with your creamy frosting using a spatula or knife. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate your fall gatherings and make for a delightful treat. Here are some creative suggestions to enjoy these cookies.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. The robust flavors complement the sweetness perfectly.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your cookies on a dessert platter alongside other fall-inspired sweets like pecan pie or apple crisp for a festive touch.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor, enhancing the cookie’s texture.

With Seasonal Fruits

• Serve the cookies with fresh slices of apples or pears to create a refreshing contrast to the rich cream cheese frosting.

Gift-Wrapped for Friends

• Package these cookies in decorative boxes as gifts. They make thoughtful homemade treats for friends and family during the holiday season.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To achieve the best results when making Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, follow these tips for perfection.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes will help prevent spreading and ensure thicker, softer cookies.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will enhance the flavor profile, making your cookies even more aromatic and delicious.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and tender ones.
• Frost When Cool: Ensure that your cookies are completely cool before frosting. This prevents melting and maintains the integrity of your frosting.
• Adjust Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add a drop of milk; if it’s too thin, incorporate more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delicious Pumpkin Sugar Cookies pair well with various side dishes. Here’s a list of complementary options that can enhance your dessert experience.

1. Spiced Chai Latte – A warm spiced chai latte offers comforting flavors that match well with the spices in the cookies.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the soft texture of the cookies.
3. Apple Cider – Serve warm apple cider as a refreshing beverage that complements the autumn essence of pumpkin flavors.
4. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda on a platter for an interesting savory-sweet combination.
5. Pumpkin Soup – Begin your meal with creamy pumpkin soup to set the theme before indulging in sweet pumpkin cookies.
6. Caramel Dipping Sauce – Offer caramel sauce on the side for dipping, adding extra sweetness and richness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking pumpkin sugar cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy to ensure the right texture and flavor.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
• Skipping the cooling process: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet helps them set properly. Don’t rush this step!
• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold butter and cream cheese won’t blend well, resulting in uneven textures. Let them sit out before starting.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at the correct temperature for baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze cookies individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes, covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Fresh pumpkin can be used, but make sure it’s pureed smoothly and has a similar moisture content as canned pumpkin puree.

How do I make my frosting thicker?

To thicken your cream cheese frosting, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I customize pumpkin sugar cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even swap out spices based on your preference!

How long do these cookies last?

Pumpkin sugar cookies with cream cheese frosting will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about a week when stored properly.

Are there any alternatives for cream cheese?

Yes! For a vegan option, consider using a plant-based cream cheese alternative that suits your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delightful but also versatile! Perfect for fall gatherings or any occasion, you can customize them with various toppings or spices. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the warm flavors of autumn in every bite!