Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With their soft, pillowy texture and sweet, creamy topping, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether it’s fall festivities, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy evening at home, these cookies will bring warmth and joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin puree and spices creates a rich flavor that is loved by many.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 30 cookies in one batch, they are ideal for parties or as gifts.
• Customizable Frosting: Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the cream cheese frosting to suit your taste.
• Festive Appeal: These cookies are not only tasty but also visually appealing with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these delicious pumpkin cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Medium cookie scoop
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools make it easy to achieve a light and fluffy mixture quickly.
• Baking sheet: A good baking sheet ensures even cooking for soft and fluffy cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting melt in your mouth with each bite. They are easy to make and pillowy soft!

For the Cookies

• 2 1/2 cups (312 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (plus extra for sprinkling)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100 g) packed light brown sugar
• 1 1/4 cups (305 g) canned pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 ounces (1 brick or 226 g) block-style cream cheese (softened but still cool)
• ¼ cup (56 g) unsalted butter (softened but still cool)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups (210 g) confectioners’ sugar (sifted)

How to Make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the following ingredients in a mixing bowl:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Pumpkin pie spice

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat together:
– Room temperature butter,
– Granulated sugar,
– Brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Add:
– Pumpkin puree,
– Egg,
– Vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. Scrape down the sides if needed.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined; the dough should be slightly sticky.

Step 5: Scoop Cookies onto Baking Sheet

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, place heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake your cookies at 350° F for 13 to 15 minutes until edges are set and cookies look fluffy. Let them cool on the pan before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 7: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

In another bowl, beat together:
– Softened cream cheese,
– Softened butter on medium-high speed until smooth, about 30 seconds.

Add:
– Vanilla extract,
– Sifted confectioners’ sugar, mixing again just until combined.

Step 8: Frost Cookies

Once cooled, use an off-set spatula or knife to frost each cookie with cream cheese frosting. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Enjoy your delicious pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging yourself, here are some great serving suggestions.

With a Hot Beverage

• Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. The combination of flavors enhances the richness of the frosting and cookie.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a colorful platter for a festive touch. This is ideal for gatherings and makes for an inviting dessert table.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbon. This adds a personal touch and allows guests to take home a sweet treat.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair with sliced apples or pears. The freshness of the fruit complements the sweetness of the cookies wonderfully.

During Fall Gatherings

• Present these cookies at your autumn get-togethers. Their seasonal flavors make them a hit during harvest celebrations.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your pumpkin cookies takes just a few simple tips to elevate your baking game. Follow these suggestions to achieve the best possible results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and other dry ingredients helps to aerate them, leading to lighter, fluffier cookies.

• Do Not Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies.

• Chill Dough (Optional): If the dough is too sticky, chilling it for 30 minutes can make it easier to scoop and shape.

• Check Baking Time: Ovens can vary; start checking your cookies at the minimum baking time to prevent over-baking.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving pumpkin cookies alongside complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink infused with spices that pairs perfectly with the flavors of pumpkin.

2. Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted almonds or pecans adds crunch and contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the cookies.

3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over the cookies for added sweetness and an indulgent touch.

4. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.

5. Cheese Platter: Mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can balance out the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

6. Chocolate Fondue: For those who love chocolate, offer fondue for dipping pieces of cookie, creating an interactive dessert experience.

7. Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add freshness that brightens up this sweet treat while offering a pop of color on your plate.

8. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a light side dish that complements the richness of pumpkin cookies without overwhelming them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the texture of your cookies. Always let your butter and eggs reach room temperature for the best outcome.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can make your cookies tough instead of soft and fluffy. Mix just until combined after adding the dry ingredients.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurement.
• Ignoring Baking Times: Overbaking will result in hard cookies. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they are soft yet set around the edges.
• Frosting Too Soon: Frosting warm cookies can lead to melted frosting. Allow your cookies to cool completely before applying the cream cheese frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze cookies without frosting for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• To freeze frosted cookies, place them on a baking sheet first, then freeze until solid before transferring them to a container.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm each cookie on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making pumpkin cookies:

What makes these Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting special?

These pumpkin cookies are light and fluffy, infused with warm spices and topped with creamy frosting that balances their sweetness perfectly.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin puree; just make sure it’s well-cooked and drained of excess moisture.

How do I get my frosting smooth?

To achieve a smooth cream cheese frosting, ensure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing.

What other flavors can I add to these Pumpkin Cookies?

Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits like cranberries for extra flavor and texture.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. They offer a perfect balance of flavors that appeal to many tastes. Feel free to customize them by adding different spices or mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!