Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect fall treat! These cookies combine the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices, topped with a creamy frosting that adds a delightful sweetness. Ideal for gatherings, parties, or cozy nights at home, these cookies are both comforting and festive. With their soft texture and rich flavors, they are sure to become a family favorite during pumpkin season!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and basic baking skills, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a deliciously warm taste that embodies the essence of fall.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for various occasions such as Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or just a cozy evening at home.
- Delightful Texture: The cookies are soft and thick, while the cream cheese frosting adds a sweet and tangy finish that elevates each bite.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these cookies, making them a great choice for family gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining wet and dry ingredients efficiently.
- Electric mixer: This tool makes it easy to achieve a smooth cream cheese frosting without any lumps.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking, ensuring easy cookie removal after baking.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 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
For the Frosting
- 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. This ensures it reaches the right temperature before you bake your cookies.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
Add the melted butter, pumpkin puree, white sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
Combine these ingredients until the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Next, add in the dry ingredients:
Include flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt to the bowl.
Mix until a cookie dough forms.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap:
Place it in the refrigerator to chill for about 25 minutes. This step helps firm up the dough for better shaping.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Once chilled:
Remove the dough from the fridge.
Roll into balls about 1 1/2 – 2 tablespoons in size.
Place them on a parchment paper-prepared baking sheet. You should be able to make approximately 12-14 cookies.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 18 minutes:
Keep an eye on them as they bake; they should be lightly golden around the edges.
Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cookies bake:
In a medium bowl, add softened cream cheese and butter.
Beat with an electric mixer until evenly combined.
Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
Refrigerate until ready to frost cooled cookies.
Step 8: Cool Cookies
Once baked:
Remove cookies from oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 9: Frost Your Cookies
After cooling:
Spread about one tablespoon of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie.
For an extra touch, sprinkle some pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon over each frosted cookie.
Enjoy!
Now you can enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting! Perfect for sharing or savoring yourself.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any gathering or cozy night in. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy these cookies.
On a Festive Platter
- Use a decorative platter to arrange the cookies for a beautiful presentation. Add seasonal decorations like mini pumpkins or fall leaves for a festive touch.
With Warm Beverages
- Pair these cookies with warm drinks such as spiced chai, hot chocolate, or apple cider. The warmth of the drinks complements the spices in the cookies perfectly.
As Party Favors
- Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with twine. These make great party favors for fall gatherings or Halloween parties.
With Ice Cream
- Serve warm cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The cold ice cream against the warm cookie creates an irresistible treat.
At a Cookie Bar
- Set up a cookie bar at your next event. Include toppings like extra frosting, chocolate chips, and chopped nuts for guests to customize their own cookie creations.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
To ensure your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies turn out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.
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Use fresh spices: Always use fresh pumpkin pie spice for maximum flavor. Stale spices can dull the taste of your cookies.
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Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 25 minutes allows the flavors to meld and prevents spreading during baking.
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Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents dense cookies caused by using too much flour.
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Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden but soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
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Frost after cooling: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting. This ensures that the cream cheese frosting stays intact and doesn’t melt off.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their delightful flavors. Here are some tasty options.
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Autumn Salad: A mix of greens, roasted squash, and cranberries dresses up this light side dish, adding freshness alongside sweet cookies.
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Cheese Board: Combine assorted cheeses, nuts, and fruits for a savory contrast to your sweet treats that guests will love.
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Spiced Nuts: Offer a bowl of spiced mixed nuts as a crunchy snack option that enhances the flavors of pumpkin and spice.
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Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like apples or pears provide a crisp texture that balances well with rich cookies.
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Hot Apple Cider: Serve warm apple cider infused with cinnamon sticks to enhance the autumn vibe while enjoying these cookies.
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Pumpkin Soup: A small cup of creamy pumpkin soup can serve as an elegant starter, setting the mood for pumpkin-flavored desserts.
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Mini Quiches: Offer bite-sized quiches filled with seasonal vegetables or cheese as a savory counterpoint to sweet cookies.
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Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip fruit or cookie pieces into melted chocolate for an indulgent experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be a breeze, but small errors can impact the final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to handle. Don’t skip this step; refrigerate for at least 25 minutes.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision, especially with flour and sugar.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep your cookies soft and tender.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature, so always preheat thoroughly. Use an oven thermometer if needed to ensure accuracy.
- Frosting too soon: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place one cookie on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting:
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your dough.
How do I make my cookies softer?
To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking them. Remove them from the oven when they are just set but still slightly soft in the center.
What can I add to customize these cookies?
Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture!
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese frosting a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Final Thoughts
These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful way to celebrate fall flavors. With their soft texture and rich taste, they’re perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins or spices! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings.
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 Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies topped with Cream Cheese Frosting. These delightful cookies blend the rich taste of pumpkin with warm spices, creating a perfect treat for any autumn gathering or a quiet night in. Each cookie is soft and thick, generously frosted with creamy icing that adds a sweet and tangy finish. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween, hosting Thanksgiving, or simply enjoying the season, these pumpkin spice cookies are sure to become a family favorite. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they embody the essence of fall baking!
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
- 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.
- Gradually mix in flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt until a dough forms.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 25 minutes.
- Roll the chilled dough into balls (about 1.5–2 tablespoons each) and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake for approximately 18 minutes or until lightly golden at the edges.
- While cookies cool, prepare frosting by beating cream cheese and butter together before adding powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
- Once cooled, frost each cookie generously with cream cheese frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
- Calories: 151
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 24mg
