Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that will brighten any occasion. Soft and pillowy, they are perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply to enjoy at home. The warm spices and rich cream cheese frosting make them irresistible. Plus, they are straightforward to prepare, making them ideal for bakers of all skill levels!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a comforting flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these cookies without any hassle.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Frosted Delight: The creamy frosting elevates the cookies to a whole new level of deliciousness.
• Great for Sharing: With 30 cookies per batch, there’s plenty to share with family and friends!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these tasty pumpkin cookies effectively, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: A stand mixer makes it easy to combine ingredients quickly and efficiently, ensuring smooth batter.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to separate dry and wet ingredients easily, promoting better mixing.
• Cookie Scoop: This tool helps portion dough consistently, resulting in evenly sized cookies that bake uniformly.

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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 the Dry Ingredients

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

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of your stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar

Mix until light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes. Then add:
– Pumpkin puree
– Egg
– Vanilla extract

Mix until everything is just combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; the dough will be sticky.

Step 5: Scoop Out Cookies

Use a medium cookie scoop or spoon to place heaping tablespoons of dough on your prepared baking sheet. Ensure there is about 2 inches of space between each cookie.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 13 to 15 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

Allow cookies to cool on the pan for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a clean mixing bowl, beat together:
– Cream cheese
– Unsalted butter

Continue beating until smooth for about 30 seconds. Then add:
– Vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar

Mix again until combined.

Step 9: Frost Your Cookies

Once cooled, use an off-set spatula or knife to frost each cookie generously with cream cheese frosting. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delicious pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some creative ways to serve them.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea for a comforting treat.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a festive platter alongside other desserts like brownies and mini cupcakes for variety.

With Seasonal Fruits

• Serve with slices of fresh apples, pears, or pomegranate seeds to add a refreshing contrast to the sweet frosting.

At Holiday Gatherings

• These cookies make an inviting addition to holiday parties. Consider garnishing with extra pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal touch.

Gift Them

• Pack the cookies in a decorative box to give as gifts during the fall season, sharing your homemade delight with friends and family.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To achieve the best results when making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, keep these simple tips in mind.

• Chill your dough: If the dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking. This helps achieve the perfect texture.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing and better incorporation.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined after adding the flour mixture. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
• Test for doneness: The cookies should be soft but set at the edges. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust your pumpkin pie spice ratio or add nutmeg and cloves for extra warmth.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Apple Cider

2. A warm cup of apple cider provides a sweet and spiced beverage pairing that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

3. Cheese Platter

4. Include creamy cheeses like brie or mild cheddar, which balance out the sweetness of the cookies and add richness.

5. Roasted Nuts

6. A mix of roasted pecans and walnuts can provide a crunchy contrast that pairs well with the soft texture of the cookies.

7. Caramel Dip

8. Serve alongside caramel sauce for dipping, creating an indulgent treat that’s irresistible.

9. Fall Salad

10. A salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and nuts brings freshness and balances out dessert’s sweetness perfectly.

11. Chocolate Milk

12. A glass of rich chocolate milk makes for a delightful pairing that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

13. Vanilla Ice Cream

14. For those who love desserts à la mode, serve these cookies warmed slightly next to a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

15. Pumpkin Spice Latte

16. This classic fall drink enhances the pumpkin theme while providing warming spices that match beautifully with each cookie bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, certain common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and fluffy.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can change the cookie’s texture. Always preheat your oven properly for the best results.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Scoop and leveling your flour instead of packing it can lead to dense cookies. Use a spoon to lightly fill your measuring cup, then level it off with a knife.
• Skipping the cooling time: Frosting warm cookies can cause the frosting to melt. Allow cookies to cool completely before applying frosting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to three months.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies if stacking.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie individually on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting that you might find helpful.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just make sure it’s well-cooked and blended smoothly before using.

How do I make my pumpkin cookies more flavorful?

Adding extra spices like nutmeg or cloves can enhance the flavor of your pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting.

Can I substitute the cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor or dietary needs.

Are these cookies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! These pumpkin cookies freeze well and maintain their texture after thawing.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!