Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect treat for any fall gathering. These delightful cookies are soft, thick, and bursting with warm spices that capture the essence of the season. With a sweet and tangy cream cheese frosting on top, they are sure to be a hit at parties, potlucks, or cozy family nights at home. Their inviting aroma and delicious flavor make them an ideal dessert for all occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a warm, comforting taste that embodies fall.
• Versatile Treat: Whether for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or just because, these cookies fit perfectly into any seasonal celebration.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: The creamy frosting adds a delightful contrast to the spiced cookie base, enhancing every bite.
• Great for Sharing: With 12-14 cookies per batch, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all your ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer ensures that your frosting becomes smooth and creamy quickly.
• Baking sheet: A good baking sheet is essential for even baking and to prevent sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are the ultimate fall dessert recipe! Made with canned pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and a sweet & tangy cream cheese frosting … this easy cookie is soft, thick, dense, and delicious. Full of warm spices and flavor, these will be a pumpkin season family favorite!

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
• Cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese 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’s ready for baking once your cookie dough is prepared.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Add the melted butter, pumpkin puree, white sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
2. Combine until smooth.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Next:
1. Add in the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt.
2. Stir together until a cookie dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap:
1. Place in the refrigerator for about 25 minutes to chill.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Remove the dough from the fridge:
1. Roll into balls about 1 ½ – 2 tablespoons in size.
2. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; aim for about 12-14 cookies.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven:
– Cook for approximately 18 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While cookies bake:
1. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter using an electric mixer until even.
2. Gradually beat in powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
3. Chill frosting in the fridge until cookies cool completely.

Step 8: Frost & Serve

Once cookies have cooled:
1. Spread about a tablespoon of cream cheese frosting on each cookie.
2. Finish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon if desired.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Savor these delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting! They’re sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any gathering or cozy night in. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy these delicious treats.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pairing your cookies with a warm cup of coffee enhances the flavors and adds a comforting touch, perfect for chilly autumn mornings.

At Fall Gatherings

• Offer these cookies at fall parties or potlucks. Their festive appearance will make them a hit among guests, bringing a seasonal spirit to any table.

As an Afternoon Snack

• Enjoy these cookies as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. The cream cheese frosting adds a lovely balance to the warm spices in the cookies.

Gift Packaging

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags as thoughtful gifts for friends and family. A personal touch can make them feel extra special during the holidays.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or pumpkin ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience that will satisfy any sweet tooth!

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To achieve the best batch of Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, follow these simple tips that can make all the difference.

• Chill the Dough: Letting the dough chill for 25 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker, softer cookies.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Using precise measurements ensures consistency in texture and flavor. A kitchen scale can be helpful for this.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor profile of your cookies. Ensure your pumpkin pie spice is fresh for maximum aroma and taste.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out; they will continue to cook on the tray.
• Mix Cream Cheese Frosting Properly: Beating the frosting until it’s smooth and creamy will give it a delightful texture that complements the cookie perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies can create a well-rounded dessert table. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Spiced Chai Tea: A warm, spiced tea complements the flavors of pumpkin and creates a cozy atmosphere.
2. Maple Pecan Pie: This classic dessert adds another layer of sweetness and nutty crunch that pairs well with the soft cookies.
3. Apple Cider: Serve hot or cold apple cider; its fruity notes enhance the autumn flavors prevalent in pumpkin spice treats.
4. Gingerbread Cake: The spicy warmth of gingerbread cake is a perfect match alongside pumpkin-flavored desserts.
5. Caramel Dipping Sauce: Offer caramel sauce as a dipping option for those who want an extra layer of sweetness on their cookies.
6. Chocolate Chip Muffins: These muffins provide a rich, chocolatey contrast to the spiced pumpkin flavors, making for an exciting treat combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Using cold ingredients – Cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Make sure your butter is melted and eggs are at room temperature for the best results.
• Not chilling the dough – Skipping the chilling step can result in cookies that spread too much. Always cover your dough and chill it for at least 25 minutes.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can make your cookies tough instead of soft and chewy. Mix until just combined to keep them tender.
• Skipping the frosting – The cream cheese frosting adds a delicious tang that balances the sweetness of the cookie. Don’t skip it; it makes all the difference!
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Using incorrect measurements can alter the texture and taste of your cookies. Always use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups.
• Baking on ungreased sheets – While parchment paper helps, not greasing your sheets can lead to sticking. Lightly grease your baking sheets if you’re not using parchment.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze cookies without frosting for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting that might help you while baking.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

You can use fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-drained and cooked properly before using it as a substitute.

How do I make the cream cheese frosting thicker?

To thicken your frosting, add more powdered sugar gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting make wonderful gifts, especially when packaged nicely in decorative boxes.

Can I customize the spices used?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for added flavor variations.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or swapping out spices based on your preference. They are perfect for fall gatherings or any time you’re craving something sweet. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats!