Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect fall dessert! These cookies combine the rich flavors of pumpkin puree and warm spices, topped with a creamy, tangy frosting. They are soft, thick, and bursting with flavor, making them a fantastic treat for family gatherings, holiday parties, or cozy evenings at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are beginner-friendly.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of pumpkin spice and cream cheese frosting creates a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Halloween or Thanksgiving, these cookies fit right in during the festive season.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy a cookie that is not only visually appealing but also has a satisfyingly chewy bite.
- Great for Sharing: Bake a batch to share with friends and family, or enjoy them all yourself—no judgment here!
Tools and Preparation
To create your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
- Electric Mixer: This tool saves time and ensures that your frosting is perfectly smooth.
- Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper prevents cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Cinnamon (for sprinkling)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, add:
1. The melted butter.
2. Pumpkin puree.
3. White sugar.
4. The egg.
5. Vanilla extract.
Combine until the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
Next, incorporate:
1. All-purpose flour.
2. Pumpkin pie spice.
3. Baking powder.
4. Salt.
Stir until a cohesive cookie dough forms.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 25 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld and improves texture.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Remove dough from the fridge. Roll into balls about 1 ½ – 2 tablespoons each. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet—aim for about 12-14 cookies.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for 18 minutes or until they are set but still soft in the center.
Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting
While baking, make your frosting by combining:
1. Softened cream cheese.
2. Unsalted butter.
Beat these together with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until well mixed. Chill it in the fridge until cookies cool down.
Step 8: Frost Your Cookies
Once cooled completely, spread about a tablespoon of cream cheese frosting on each cookie. Finish with an extra sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for added flavor.
Step 9: Enjoy!
These delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are ready to be enjoyed! Savor them fresh out of the oven or share them at your next gathering!
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just enjoying a cozy night at home. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.
With Coffee or Tea
- Pair with a latte – The rich flavors of pumpkin spice complement the creamy notes in your favorite latte.
- Enjoy with herbal tea – A warm cup of chamomile or chai tea enhances the spices in the cookies.
As a Dessert Platter
- Mix and match – Create a dessert platter by combining these cookies with other fall treats like caramel apples or pecan pie.
- Add fresh fruit – Serve alongside sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
Topped with Extra Frosting
- Double the frosting – For those who love cream cheese frosting, add an extra dollop on top of each cookie before serving.
- Sprinkle toppings – Enhance the frosting with crushed nuts or chocolate shavings for added texture.
At Parties and Gatherings
- Cookie bar setup – Arrange these cookies on a decorative platter at your next party for guests to enjoy.
- Gift boxes – Package these cookies in festive boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Perfecting your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.
- Chill the dough – Chilling the cookie dough helps maintain their shape while baking, resulting in perfectly thick cookies.
- Use quality ingredients – Opt for fresh spices and high-quality cream cheese for the best flavor in both cookies and frosting.
- Don’t overbake – Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
- Experiment with spices – Adjust the pumpkin pie spice levels according to your taste preference for a personalized touch.
- Let them cool completely – Allow cookies to cool completely before adding frosting to avoid melting it away.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Looking for side dishes that pair well with your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies? Here are some delightful options that will enhance your dessert experience.
- Apple Cider – A warm spiced apple cider complements the flavors of pumpkin and adds a seasonal touch.
- Cheese Platter – Pair with mild cheeses like brie or gouda, which provide a creamy contrast to sweet cookies.
- Pumpkin Soup – A comforting bowl of pumpkin soup brings out similar flavors and keeps things cozy on chilly days.
- Roasted Nuts – Offer a mix of spiced almonds and pecans for a crunchy side that balances sweetness.
- Fall Salad – A salad featuring mixed greens, cranberries, and candied walnuts makes a light accompaniment.
- Chocolate Fondue – Dip fruit slices or mini marshmallows into rich chocolate fondue alongside your cookies for added indulgence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the outcome of your cookies. Here are common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always refrigerate for at least 25 minutes.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese can result in a lumpy frosting. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth consistency.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can make the cookies tough. Combine ingredients until just mixed for soft and chewy cookies.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour will make your cookies dry. Use a spoon to aerate the flour before scooping it into your measuring cup.
- Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies and remove them when they are lightly golden but still soft in the middle.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm each cookie for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’re not alone! Here are some common questions answered.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your dough.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
How do I make my cookies more flavorful?
To enhance flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to your cookie dough before baking.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Frost them just before serving.
Final Thoughts
These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or changing spices according to your taste. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home, they’re sure to become a family favorite!
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies topped with luscious Cream Cheese Frosting. Perfectly soft and chewy, these cookies are infused with pumpkin puree and a blend of warm spices that evoke the essence of autumn. The creamy, tangy frosting adds a delicious contrast, making each bite a heavenly treat. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween, Thanksgiving, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they will quickly become your go-to dessert for the season.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Cinnamon (for sprinkling)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, pumpkin puree, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 25 minutes.
- Roll the dough into balls (about 1½ – 2 tablespoons each) and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for about 18 minutes until set but still soft in the center.
- For frosting: Beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Once cookies are cooled, frost each cookie generously.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
