Name: Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour; 1 cup Pumpkin puree (Use pure pumpkin puree); 3/4 cup Granulated sugar; 1/4 cup Brown sugar (Packed); 1 teaspoon Baking powder; 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon Ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 large Egg; 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (Softened); 8 oz Cream cheese (Softened); 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (Softened); 3 cups Powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons Milk (Adjust for desired consistency)

As I strolled through the local farmer’s market last weekend, the vibrant orange pumpkins caught my eye, stirring up sweet autumn memories. What better way to celebrate the season than with a batch of Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting? This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic cookie that balances the warmth of spices with a creamy topping that you won’t be able to resist. Not only are these cookies a charming addition to any fall gathering, but they also come together quickly, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying cozy conversations with loved ones. Ready to bring warmth and sweetness into your home? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite!

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Fall Flavors are at their peak with the inclusion of pumpkin and warm spices, creating a nostalgic experience that’s perfect for the season. Effortless Preparation means you can whip these up in no time, letting you get back to what matters—sharing joy with friends and family. Velvety Frosting elevates each bite, offering a creamy contrast that you’ll adore. Versatile Treat; serve them at gatherings, holiday parties, or simply enjoy them as a sweet afternoon snack. Plus, you can easily customize these cookies by adding your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist. Looking for more delightful ideas? Check out our Pumpkin Recipes for a complete seasonal feast!

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these heavenly Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

For the Cookies

All-purpose flour – a must for that soft texture these cookies are known for.
Pumpkin puree – ensures rich flavor and moisture; don’t confuse it with pumpkin pie filling!
Granulated sugar – sweetens the cookies perfectly to enhance that fall vibe.
Brown sugar – adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor to every bite.
Baking powder – gives the cookies that necessary lift for the perfect soft chew.
Ground cinnamon – brings out the warm, cozy flavors of fall.
Ground nutmeg – a little goes a long way in creating a fragrant, spiced aroma.
Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Egg – binds it all together and adds richness!
Unsalted butter – provides richness; be sure to soften it for easy mixing.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese – the star of the frosting, adding tanginess and creaminess.
Unsalted butter – ensures your frosting is smooth and spreads like a dream.
Powdered sugar – sweetens the frosting while keeping it light and fluffy.
Vanilla extract – infuses a warm, sweet aroma that complements the creaminess.
Milk – helps achieve the desired frosting consistency; use more or less as needed.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to creating delightful Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting that everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while preparing your baking sheets lined with parchment paper. This ensures an even bake for your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies. Set out a large mixing bowl and an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugars together, creating a fluffy base for your cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Sugars and Butter
In your mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, showcasing its pale color. This step is crucial as it adds air into the dough, giving your cookies that tender texture we love.

Step 3: Add Pumpkins and Egg
Next, mix in the pumpkin puree and the egg, blending them into the sugary buttery mixture. Beat for another minute until fully combined. The pumpkin brings moisture and flavor, essential for your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies. The mixture should appear smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, spices (cinnamon and nutmeg), and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed. Aim for a soft dough consistency that is slightly sticky but holds its shape.

Step 5: Scoop and Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. These cookies will spread slightly during baking, so give them room. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft, achieving the perfect chewy texture.

Step 6: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. This step ensures they firm up before transferring them to a wire rack. After cooling for a few minutes, gently move the cookies to the rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare your cream cheese frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, adjusting the milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Step 8: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie using a spatula or knife. Feel free to add sprinkles or chopped nuts for a lovely decorative touch that enhances both the look and flavor of your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

Step 9: Serve and Share
Finally, arrange your beautifully frosted Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting on a festive platter. These delightful treats are perfect for sharing with friends and family during gatherings or enjoying as a special afternoon snack.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Sharing a batch of these autumn delights is even more special when paired with delightful accompaniments to create a cozy gathering.

Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, comforting drink enhances the fall flavors, making every bite of your cookies even more delicious.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a cool contrast to the cookies, balancing the warm spices beautifully.
Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty sweetness of pecans complements the pumpkin cookies, creating a delightful dessert trio that’s hard to resist.
Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle over the cookies adds a sweet, buttery flavor with a rich texture that elevates each bite.
Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses can create a savory balance to the sweetness of the cookies, perfect for those who enjoy varied flavors.
Nutty Fall Salad: A fresh salad topped with apples and walnuts brings in a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the soft cookies.
Chai Latte: The spices in chai tea echo the flavors of the cookies, creating a warm and inviting drink to enjoy alongside.
Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate: For an extra indulgence, this rich drink is a cozy companion that brings the pumpkin theme full circle.
Dark Chocolate Pretzels: Their salty-sweet profile provides a nice contrast to the creamy frosting, making for a fun snack assortment.

Bringing together these complementary flavors will not only elevate your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting but also create a warm ambiance, perfect for enjoying this delightful season with loved ones.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Check the Pumpkin: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to ensure your cookies have the right flavor and sweetness balance.
Don’t Overmix: When combined with dry ingredients, mix just until blended to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to a chewy texture instead of the desired softness.
Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too sticky, chill it for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and results in perfectly shaped Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.
Bake Until Just Set: Bake until the edges are firm but the centers still look slightly underbaked; they will continue cooking on the baking sheet.
Frost When Cool: Make sure to frost only once the cookies are completely cool, preventing the frosting from melting and running off.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or chopped pecans to the dough for an extra delicious twist on these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies!

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Variations

Let your creativity bloom by customizing these delightful cookies with exciting twists and substitutions that will tantalize your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities. The cookies will still be soft and delicious!
Vegan-Friendly: Use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacement and swap butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a completely plant-based treat. You’ll find they remain irresistibly soft!
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dough for a surprising, warm heat that complements the sweetness beautifully. It’s a delightful contrast that’s sure to impress your guests!
Nutty Delight: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. Not only does this add a wonderful nutty flavor, but it also gives these cookies an exciting bite!
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks for an indulgent twist that pairs well with the pumpkin flavor. Chocolate and pumpkin are a match made in dessert heaven!
Different Frosting: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a maple glaze by combining powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk. This adds a lovely autumnal flavor that’s simply irresistible!
Stuffed Cookies: Create a hidden surprise by placing a dollop of cream cheese filling in the center before baking. When you bite in, a creamy center will ooze out for an added layer of excitement!
Zesty Kick: Mix in a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to brighten the flavor profile. This citrus twist adds freshness and balances the rich pumpkin sweetness beautifully.

Remember, your kitchen is a canvas, and these variations can elevate your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies into something uniquely yours. For more delightful ideas, check out our scrumptious Pumpkin Recipes to keep the fall magic going!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and delicious for snacking.

Fridge: For extended freshness, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 2 hours, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Frost after thawing.

Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if enjoyed slightly warm. This enhances the flavor and pairs beautifully with the cream cheese frosting!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for busy weeknights when you want to have a sweet treat on hand! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by scooping it onto baking sheets and covering them tightly with plastic wrap. Alternatively, you can refrigerate the dough in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain their quality, avoid overmixing the dough, as this keeps the cookies soft and tender. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop the dough directly into a preheated oven without needing to thaw. After baking and cooling, frost your cookies right before serving for a delightful, fresh taste that retains its charm. Enjoy the convenience of homemade cookies with minimal effort!

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin is best for cookies?
Absolutely, go for pure pumpkin puree! This ensures a rich flavor and the right amount of moisture. Avoid using pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can overwhelm your cookies.

How should I store my Pumpkin Sugar Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal softness. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week. I often put parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and keep them fresh!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, first freeze the unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 2 hours. Once they’re firm, transfer them to an airtight container and store for up to 3 months. Frost them after thawing for the best texture!

What can I do if my cookies turn out too flat?
If your cookies are spreading too much and turning out flat, it might be due to melted butter or overly soft dough. You can remedy this by chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. Additionally, ensure that the baking powder is fresh and not expired, as it’s crucial for that perfect lift.

Are these cookies suitable for those with allergies?
Great question! Since this recipe contains gluten and dairy, they may not be suitable for those with gluten intolerance or dairy allergies. For a gluten-free option, try substituting with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. I recommend checking labels on other ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs!

How long will the cream cheese frosting stay good?
The cream cheese frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days in an airtight container. Just remember to give it a good stir before using it again. Frosted cookies should be consumed within a week for best flavor and freshness.