Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dessert that captures the essence of fall, these Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are just what you need. The moment you take a bite, you’ll experience their pillowy softness and delightful sweetness—perfect for sharing with family or enjoying during quiet evenings at home. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to treat yourself, these cookies are sure to please everyone!

There’s something truly special about the combination of pumpkin and cream cheese. It’s like a warm hug in dessert form! Plus, this recipe is super easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something sweet but don’t have much time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these cookies baking away in no time.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike love the soft texture and sweet frosting—perfect for snack time or dessert!
• Make-ahead delight: These cookies store well, so you can bake them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.
• Deliciously seasonal: Enjoy the flavors of fall with every bite; they’re perfect for Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

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)

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for an added crunch.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to customize the flavor profile.
• Swap the frosting: Use a maple glaze instead of cream cheese frosting for a unique twist.
• Mix-in chocolate chips: Add dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.

How to Make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. This step is crucial as it ensures even baking. While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout your flour mixture, ensuring that each cookie rises perfectly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a stand mixer bowl (or using a hand mixer), beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes. This process incorporates air into your batter, which will make your cookies light and tender!

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is combined well. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl if needed—this ensures all ingredients blend perfectly.

Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix here! The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches between each cookie; they will spread while baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 13-15 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft. Allow them to cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cookies cool, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar; mix again until creamy. This frosting is rich but balances beautifully with the pumpkin flavor!

Step 9: Frost Your Cookies

Once cooled completely, use an offset spatula or knife to generously frost each cookie with that delicious cream cheese frosting. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds that perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Baking pumpkin cookies can be a delightful experience, and following these tips will help you create the perfect treat!

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents overly dense cookies and ensures the right texture.
• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and egg are at room temperature. This allows for better mixing, resulting in a fluffier cookie.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies soft and tender. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies due to gluten development.
• Chill the dough (optional): If you have time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can enhance the flavors and help the cookies retain their shape while baking.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just thaw before serving.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These pumpkin cookies are not only delicious but also versatile in how you present them! Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply indulging yourself, here are some serving ideas.

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of cinnamon: A light dusting of cinnamon adds warmth and enhances the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
• Chopped nuts: Finely chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and additional flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: A warm cup of apple cider complements the flavors of pumpkin perfectly, making it a cozy pairing for any fall occasion.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that balances out the sweetness of the cookies—perfect for dessert lovers!
• Cheese platter: Create a small cheese board with mild cheeses like brie or gouda. The savory notes will contrast nicely with the sweet cookies.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with apples, pears, and berries brightens up your plate and provides a nice balance to the rich flavors of pumpkin.

Now that you’re armed with these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to bake up a batch of these irresistible pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and store them, ensuring you have a delightful treat ready whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Freeze un-frosted cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Frosted cookies can also be frozen; just place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove cookies from the refrigerator or freezer and let them come to room temperature.
• Warm individual cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until just warmed through.
• If using frozen cookies, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth. It may have a slightly different moisture content, so adjust accordingly.

How long do Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting last?

These cookies will stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I substitute the cream cheese in the frosting?

Absolutely! For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or dairy-free cream cheese alternatives if desired.

What spices can I add to enhance my Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Feel free to experiment by adding nutmeg, cloves, or even a bit of ginger for extra warmth and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoyed this recipe for pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting as much as I do! These soft, pillowy treats are perfect for any occasion and are so easy to whip up. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them with your favorite warm beverage, they are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!