Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are not just a treat; they’re an experience! Soft, pillowy, and bursting with fall flavors, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy gathering or a festive celebration, these cookies will impress everyone. The creamy frosting adds a delightful finish that makes each bite even more indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday parties, bake sales, or just as an everyday dessert!
• Pillowy Soft Texture: These cookies melt in your mouth, making them a favorite among friends and family.
• Creamy Frosting Delight: The cream cheese frosting elevates these cookies to another level of deliciousness.

Tools and Preparation

To make these pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, you will need some essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools make it easy to achieve the light and fluffy texture needed for both the cookie dough and the frosting.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even baking for perfectly soft cookies every time.

Ingredients

To create these delightful pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting, gather the following ingredients:

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 (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:
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 your stand mixer bowl, combine:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar

Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy for about three minutes. Then add:
– Canned pumpkin puree
– Large egg
– Vanilla extract

Mix until everything is well combined, scraping the bowl’s sides if necessary.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. The dough will be slightly sticky and soft.

Step 5: Scoop the Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Ensure you space them about two inches apart.

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven at 350° F for 13 to 15 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft. Allow cooling on the pan briefly before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
– Softened cream cheese
– Softened butter

Mix on medium-high speed until smooth for about 30 seconds. Then add:
– Vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar

Mix again until combined for about another 30 seconds.

Step 8: Frost Your Cookies

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

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 delightful on their own, but serving them with complementary items can enhance the experience. Here are some creative ways to serve these tasty treats.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee. The rich flavors of the coffee bring out the spices in the cookies beautifully.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your pumpkin cookies alongside other desserts like brownies and mini cheesecakes for a visually appealing platter that appeals to all sweet tooths.

With Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warm topped with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The melting ice cream creates a deliciously creamy contrast.

At Fall Gatherings

• These cookies make an excellent addition to any fall-themed gathering. Their festive flavor and soft texture will be a hit among guests.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkle some chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the frosting for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your pumpkin cookies is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure delicious results every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Room temperature butter and eggs mix more easily, leading to a lighter cookie texture.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can activate gluten in the flour.

• Chill the dough if necessary: If your dough is too sticky, chill it for 30 minutes before scooping. This makes it easier to handle.

• Check for doneness properly: Look for set edges and soft centers; they will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To create a well-rounded dessert experience, consider pairing these pumpkin cookies with some delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Apple Crisp: A warm and comforting dish made with baked apples and topped with a crunchy oat topping.

2. Spiced Chai Tea: This aromatic tea complements the flavors of pumpkin perfectly while providing warmth during chilly days.

3. Caramel Pudding: A silky-smooth dessert that adds richness and sweetness, balancing out the spices in the pumpkin cookies.

4. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a contrasting texture and flavor that pairs nicely with creamy frosting.

5. Chocolate Fondue: A fun interactive dessert where you can dip fruits and marshmallows, making it perfect for sharing.

6. Pumpkin Soup: Start your meal off right with a savory pumpkin soup that highlights seasonal flavors before indulging in dessert.

7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile when paired alongside spiced desserts like pumpkin cookies.

By incorporating these serving suggestions, tips, and side dishes into your plans, you’ll create an enjoyable experience centered around these delightful pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can be simple, but small mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect the texture of your cookies. Always ensure that your butter is at room temperature and your eggs are slightly warmed before mixing.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cookies dense. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements, spooning flour into a measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife.

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing the dough too much can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined when adding the dry ingredients to keep them soft and pillowy.

• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing cookies to cool on the pan before transferring them to a wire rack helps maintain their shape. If you move them too soon, they may break apart.

• Frosting too warm cookies: Frosting warm cookies can cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Wait until the cookies are completely cool before applying cream cheese frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. Ensure they are in a freezer-safe container.
• For frosted cookies, freeze for up to 1 month; place parchment paper between layers.

Reheating Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350° F and warm for about 5-7 minutes for best texture.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting that might help you perfect this delightful treat!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just ensure it’s cooked and pureed smoothly before using it in the recipe.

How do I achieve thicker frosting for my pumpkin cookies?

To make thicker cream cheese frosting, reduce the amount of confectioners’ sugar or add more cream cheese until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I substitute other spices in my pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg based on your taste preferences.

How long do these pumpkin cookies last?

These delicious pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting can last up to a week in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are not only easy to make but also incredibly soft and flavorful. They make a great dessert for any occasion. Consider customizing them with nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!