Nothing says cozy fall quite like the warm, comforting flavors of my beloved Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These cookies are a delightful blend of soft pumpkin-infused dough and velvety cream cheese frosting, capturing the essence of autumn in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or a simple treat at home, this recipe promises a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and creamy richness that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the tender pumpkin puree adding moisture and depth, to the aromatic spices that bring warmth, and the creamy frosting that tops it all off with a luscious finish.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides the rich, buttery base essential for soft cookies.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a light texture.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Introduces a subtle molasses note that complements the pumpkin.
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that keeps cookies moist and flavorful.
- 1 egg yolk: Binds ingredients together and enriches the dough.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a fragrant sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The structure of the cookie.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Ensures a soft, slightly risen cookie.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice reminiscent of autumn.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Offers a subtle, nutty spice depth.
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves: Enhances with a touch of aromatic sharpness.
- For Frosting: 4 oz cream cheese, softened — creamy and tangy for balance.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness to the frosting.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Boosts the frosting’s flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness of the frosting perfectly.
How to Make Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Space
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to keep the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze — this simple prep step saves time and hassle later.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This is key to achieving that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture in your cookie.
Step 3: Add Pumpkin, Egg Yolk, and Vanilla
Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The pumpkin really brightens the dough, giving it its signature moist and tender crumb.
Step 4: Combine Dry Spices and Flour
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This blend of spices is what gives the cookies their irresistible autumnal flavor.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture. Stir gently and mix only until just combined to keep the cookies tender and soft after baking.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dollops of the dough evenly spaced onto the prepared baking sheets. Leaving room between cookies allows them to spread and bake evenly.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just set but the centers remain soft. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before frosting so the cream cheese topping doesn’t melt away.
Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until silky smooth. Gradually beat in powdered sugar and a pinch of salt until fluffy and light, then stir in vanilla extract for a perfect finish.
Step 9: Frost and Serve
Once your cookies are fully cooled, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting generously over each one. This finishing touch brings the Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe to life with its luscious texture and tangy sweetness.
How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little cinnamon or grated nutmeg on top of the frosting for an extra dash of spice and a pretty presentation. Crushed pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce also add a delightful crunch or sweetness.
Side Dishes
Serve these cookies alongside warm apple cider or a cup of spiced chai tea for a full, comforting fall experience. They also make a fabulous companion to a bowl of vanilla ice cream if you want dessert on another level.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, arrange your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe on a rustic wooden platter garnished with cinnamon sticks and fresh pumpkin slices for a charming seasonal display. Tying a set of cookies with twine makes an adorable handmade gift too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cream cheese frosting stays creamy and fresh, ensuring you enjoy every bite as if freshly made.
Freezing
If you want to make these cookies ahead, freeze the baked and cooled cookies without frosting for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw completely and then frost for best results.
Reheating
Since these cookies are best enjoyed soft, avoid reheating once frosted. If unfrosted, you can warm them slightly in the oven for just a few minutes to regain that freshly baked feel.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works wonderfully and is actually the most convenient option for consistent texture and moisture in your cookies.
What if I don’t have all the spices on hand?
You can simplify the spice blend by using just cinnamon if needed, but the full mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves really brings out the authentic pumpkin spice flavor.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
To make them vegan, substitute the butter for a plant-based alternative, use a flax or chia egg instead of an egg yolk, and opt for vegan cream cheese in the frosting.
How do I prevent the frosting from melting?
Make sure the cookies are completely cooled before frosting, and keep the frosted cookies refrigerated until serving to maintain the frosting’s shape and texture.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing with frosting?
It’s best to freeze the cookies unfrosted and add the cream cheese frosting after thawing to keep the frosting texture fresh and prevent sogginess.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These cookies perfectly capture the spirit of fall with their soft texture, cozy spices, and indulgent frosting. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just to treat yourself, these delightful cookies will warm your kitchen and your heart.
Print
Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting offer a delightful autumn twist on classic sugar cookies. With warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves combined with smooth pumpkin puree, these soft cookies are perfectly complemented by a luscious cream cheese frosting. Ideal for fall gatherings or festive occasions, they bring cozy flavors and a tender texture to your dessert table.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for your cookie dough.
- Add wet ingredients: Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until the ingredients are well combined, giving the dough its moist and flavorful character.
- Whisk dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves to evenly distribute the spices.
- Combine dry and wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to form a soft cookie dough without overworking it.
- Scoop dough: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to place dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain tender. Remove from oven and transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and a pinch of salt, then beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Frost cookies: Once the cookies are fully cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over each cookie. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother frosting.
- Do not overmix the dough after adding flour to keep the cookies tender.
- Use fresh pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and texture.
- If desired, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to reduce spreading.
- Store frosted cookies in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
- These cookies freeze well either baked (unfrosted) or frozen dough can be baked directly.
