Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for a seasonal treat that feels like a warm hug, you’re in for a real delight with these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. Imagine tender, pumpkin-spiced cookies bursting with cozy spices, topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances sweetness and richness. They are wonderfully soft but hold their shape beautifully, making them a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. These cookies are the ultimate way to celebrate fall flavors in a simple, fun, and utterly delicious way that anyone can enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting lies in a handful of simple, carefully chosen ingredients. Each plays a crucial role: the pumpkin puree gives moisture and that unmistakable autumn flavor, the warm spices bring depth and comfort, while the creamy frosting finishes it all off with a tangy sweetness. Let’s break them down so you know exactly why each one matters.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a soft, tender texture to the cookies.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps establish the cookie’s structure.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings moisture and an inviting, caramel-like depth of flavor.
• 1/3 cup pumpkin puree: Provides natural moisture and authentic pumpkin flavor essential for this cookie.
• 1 egg yolk: Acts as a binder and contributes to a tender crumb.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all of the other flavors with its warm, inviting aroma.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy base of each cookie, giving it structure.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: Gives just enough lift for a delightful, airy texture.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and helps bring out the spices.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds that essential warm and comforting spice note.
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Complements the pumpkin’s natural flavor with a gentle earthiness.
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves: Deepens the cookie’s spice profile with subtle complexity.
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient for frosting—creamy, tangy, and smooth.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Makes the frosting silky and rich.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to just the right consistency.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a lovely floral note to the frosting.
• Pinch of salt: Keeps the frosting balanced and prevents it from being overly sweet.

How to Make Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

The foundation for a perfect batch starts with preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and promotes even baking, so your cookies come out just right every time.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, use a mixer to combine the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step takes about 2 to 3 minutes and is essential as it incorporates air, resulting in softer, lighter cookies.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin, Egg Yolk, and Vanilla

Now, stir in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mixing these wet ingredients in together allows the pumpkin flavor and binding agents to incorporate evenly — you’ll notice the dough taking on that lovely autumn hue and rich aroma.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves separately. This ensures the spices and leavening are evenly distributed, so every bite has consistent flavor and bake.

Step 5: Blend Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing here to keep the cookies tender and soft, with the perfect crumb texture that Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are known for.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion the dough onto your prepared sheets. Keep them spaced evenly so the cookies bake consistently and don’t merge into one large cookie.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are set and the tops no longer look wet. After removing from the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is key so the cookies firm up just right.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cookies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until silky smooth. This easy frosting base promises that creamy tang we all love on Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Step 9: Sweeten and Flavor the Frosting

Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until the frosting becomes fluffy and light. If needed, you can tweak the thickness by adding a little more powdered sugar or a tiny splash of milk.

Step 10: Frost and Enjoy

Once the cookies are completely cool, spread the frosting generously over each one. This finishing touch not only adds flavor but also makes the cookies look irresistible. Now, get ready to savor your creation!

How to Serve Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

A sprinkle of cinnamon or a tiny pinch of pumpkin pie spice on top of the frosting adds a beautiful, seasonal touch. For a festive flair, try decorating with finely chopped pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce, which complements the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with warm beverages like chai tea, coffee, or a rich hot chocolate. If you’re enjoying a fall gathering, serve alongside a spiced cider or a creamy latte for a cozy, unforgettable snack experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves or small pumpkins for a charming display. You can also sandwich two cookies with frosting in between for a fun twist or cut them into festive shapes like leaves or pumpkins using cookie cutters before baking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, keep the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cool temperature helps preserve the freshness of both the cookies and the cream cheese frosting without drying them out.

Freezing

You can freeze both baked cookies and frosting separately. Freeze cookies on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. For frosting, freeze in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before frosting the thawed cookies or rewhip the frosting gently if needed.

Reheating

When ready to eat, allow frozen cookies to come to room temperature naturally. If you like your cookies warm, gently heat them in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds— avoid heating with frosting applied to keep it nice and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin or fresh pumpkin puree?

Both canned and freshly made pumpkin puree work beautifully. Just ensure your fresh puree is well-drained to avoid extra moisture that can affect the dough texture.

What if I don’t have all the spices listed?

Cinnamon is the star, so don’t skip that! You can simplify the spice mix to cinnamon and nutmeg if needed, though cloves add a subtle warmth that elevates the cookies.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

With some ingredient swaps like vegan butter, flax egg instead of egg yolk, and dairy-free cream cheese, these cookies can become vegan-friendly, though the texture may change slightly.

How thick should I make the frosting?

It’s best when spreadable yet firm enough to hold its shape. Adjust with powdered sugar for thickness or milk for thinning until you find your perfect consistency.

Do these cookies stay soft over time?

Yes! Thanks to the pumpkin and brown sugar, they maintain a tender, moist texture even after a few days, especially when stored properly with frosting.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something incredibly comforting about Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting that feels like a celebration of all things cozy and sweet. Whether you’re sharing them at a family gathering, baking up a batch for yourself, or looking for a fantastic fall recipe to impress friends, these cookies deliver on flavor, texture, and that special seasonal charm. Give them a try and watch how quickly they become your new favorite go-to treat!

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