Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that embodies the essence of fall. These cookies are not only perfect for cozy gatherings but also make an excellent addition to holiday parties and family celebrations. Their rich pumpkin flavor, combined with warm spices and a creamy frosting, creates a unique dessert experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice delivers a warm, comforting flavor that is perfect for fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these cookies effortlessly.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday party or a simple family gathering, these cookies are sure to impress.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies turn out soft and thick, making each bite melt in your mouth.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: The tangy cream cheese frosting adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cookie.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool makes it easy to achieve a smooth and creamy frosting consistency without much effort.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring easy 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 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 your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, combine:
Melted butter
Pumpkin puree
White sugar
Large egg
Vanilla extract

Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Incorporate the following dry ingredients into the wet mixture:
All-purpose flour
Pumpkin pie spice
Baking powder
Salt

Stir until a cookie dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 25 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up for easier handling.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Remove the chilled dough from the fridge. Roll it into balls about 1 1/2 – 2 tablespoons in size. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each ball (you should get around 12-14 cookies).

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 18 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cookies bake, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, combine:
Softened cream cheese
Softened butter

Beat with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add:
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract

Mix until fully combined. Refrigerate until you’re ready to frost your cooled cookies.

Step 8: Cool and Frost

Once baked, remove cookies from oven and allow them to cool completely. Spread about a tablespoon of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. For an extra touch, sprinkle with pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are now ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will impress your friends and family.

For a Cozy Gathering

• Coffee Pairing: Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of spiced coffee or chai tea for a comforting treat.
• Dessert Platter: Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board, mixing them with other seasonal treats like caramel apples or mini pumpkin pies.

For Halloween Festivities

• Spooky Decor: Add edible eyes or sprinkles shaped like pumpkins on top of the frosting for a fun Halloween touch.
• Cookie Bags: Gift these cookies in themed treat bags as party favors for kids and adults alike.

For Thanksgiving Dinner

• Table Centerpiece: Stack cookies in a clear glass jar as an eye-catching centerpiece that guests can nibble on.
• After-Dinner Delight: Serve these cookies with vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert after the big meal.

For Holiday Parties

• Cookie Bar: Create a cookie bar where guests can decorate their own cookies using different toppings and frostings.
• Gift Wrapping: Package these cookies in festive boxes tied with twine as thoughtful gifts for hosts or friends.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

To achieve the best results with your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, follow these simple tips.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape while baking, ensuring they come out thick and soft.
• Use Fresh Spices: Always opt for fresh pumpkin pie spice, as it enhances the flavor of your cookies significantly.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of baking. They should be slightly soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for smooth frosting consistency.
• Frost When Cool: Allow your cookies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure beautiful presentation.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Apple Cider: A warm glass of spiced apple cider complements the flavors of pumpkin perfectly.
2. Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with soft cookies, creating a delightful dessert combo.
3. Roasted Nuts: Savory roasted nuts add crunch and balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
4. Pumpkin Soup: A small bowl of warm pumpkin soup can provide a lovely savory contrast to sweet treats.
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses such as brie or goat cheese to enhance flavors without overwhelming sweetness.
6. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds a refreshing element that pairs well with rich desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: Failing to chill the dough can cause your cookies to spread too much while baking. Always refrigerate the dough for at least 25 minutes.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing the dough too long can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and tender.
• Baking on an unprepared sheet: Baking directly on a bare sheet can lead to sticking or uneven baking. Always use parchment paper or a silicone mat for best results.
• Using cold cream cheese: Cold cream cheese won’t blend well into frosting, leading to lumps. Make sure it’s softened before mixing.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store cookies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• • Container: Use an airtight container to keep cookies fresh.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• • Duration: Freeze cookies for up to 3 months.
• • Container: Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container. Separate layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on low power for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

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; just ensure it’s pureed well and has similar moisture content as canned puree.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in equal amounts, ensuring it’s suitable for baking.

What is the best way to decorate Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies?

You can use sprinkles, nuts, or even drizzles of caramel sauce along with the cream cheese frosting for added flair!

How long do these cookies last?

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts! Enjoy this cozy treat during fall gatherings or any time you crave a sweet indulgence.