Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat perfect for any fall gathering. These cookies combine the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices, topped with a creamy frosting that adds a sweet touch. Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these cookies will surely be a hit with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 28 minutes from start to finish, making it simple for anyone to whip up a batch.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a rich and inviting flavor profile that screams autumn.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, these cookies can be enjoyed as an afternoon snack, dessert at dinner parties, or even as a sweet gift.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Each cookie is soft, thick, and dense, ensuring they satisfy your sweet tooth while melting in your mouth.
• Customizable Topping: You can easily adjust the frosting or add fun toppings like nuts or sprinkles to personalize your cookies.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes baking more enjoyable and efficient. Gather these essential items before starting your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without spilling.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when blending the frosting to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking cookies, ensuring they cook thoroughly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, making cleanup easier.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather the following 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

• Cinnamon (for topping)
• 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 your delicious cookies.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:
1. Melted butter
2. Pumpkin puree
3. White sugar
4. Egg
5. Vanilla extract

Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Add in the dry ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Pumpkin pie spice
3. Baking powder
4. 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 to chill.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Remove the dough from the fridge:
1. Roll into balls about 1 ½ – 2 tbsp each.
2. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet; you should get about 12-14 cookies.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While cookies are baking:
1. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter.
2. Use an electric mixer to beat until evenly combined.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Refrigerate until cookies are cooled.

Step 8: Frost Cookies

Once cookies have cooled completely:
– Spread about a tablespoon of cream cheese frosting on each cookie.
– Sprinkle additional pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top if desired.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Serve these delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting at any gathering or enjoy them as an everyday treat!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can enhance your dessert experience. These cookies are soft, flavorful, and perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Tea: A soothing herbal tea complements the spices of the cookies beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy the sweetness of hot chocolate alongside your cookies for an indulgent treat.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cheesecakes: Include mini cheesecakes to add variety and richness to your dessert spread.
• Fruit Tartlets: Fresh fruit tartlets provide a refreshing balance to the spiced cookies.
• Brownies: Add some fudgy brownies for a decadent touch that everyone will love.

For Special Occasions

• Birthday Parties: These cookies can be a great addition to any birthday celebration as a sweet treat.
• Holidays: Serve them during holiday gatherings for a festive touch that captures the essence of fall.
• Picnics: Pack these cookies for outdoor events to share with family and friends.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and keeps the cookies thick.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother frosting.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Too much flour can make your cookies dry; use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be just set but still soft in the center.
• Frost When Cool: Ensure cookies are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting and sogginess.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust pumpkin pie spice or add nutmeg for an extra flavor dimension.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies can create a more balanced meal or snack experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Chai Latte: A spiced chai latte enhances the flavor profile of your cookies, creating a comforting pairing.
2. Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: Sweet and crunchy apple slices complement the spiced flavors beautifully.
3. Pumpkin Soup: A warm pumpkin soup makes for a cozy addition that ties in perfectly with the pumpkin theme.
4. Salad with Cranberries: A fresh salad topped with cranberries offers a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Cheese Board: Include various cheeses and nuts on a board for a savory counterbalance to sweet treats.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruits for a refreshing side that pairs well with dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth dough.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft, fluffy textures.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step may cause the cookies to spread too much. Chilling helps maintain their shape while baking.
• Ignoring baking time: Baking for too long can dry out your cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them as soon as they are set but still soft.
• Neglecting frosting consistency: If the frosting is too thick, it won’t spread nicely. Adjust with a bit of milk or cream for the perfect texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

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

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Place a pan over low heat and warm cookies briefly, covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies different?

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are unique because they blend the flavors of pumpkin and warm spices like cinnamon, creating a delicious fall treat.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin purée. Just ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your cookie dough.

How do I make Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting vegan?

To make these cookies vegan, substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use a flax egg or chia egg instead of a regular egg.

How long do these cookies last?

These cookies will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I customize the frosting?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors such as maple extract or chocolate for a twist on the classic cream cheese frosting.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. They capture the essence of fall with their warm spices and creamy topping, making them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize your cookies by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Enjoy this delightful dessert with family and friends!

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Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: About 12 cookies 1x

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Description

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate fall treat, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices for a delightful experience. These soft, chewy cookies are topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements their sweetness. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

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• 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
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Cinnamon (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix melted butter, pumpkin puree, white sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually add all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt; stir until combined.
4. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 25 minutes.
5. Shape dough into balls (1 ½ – 2 tbsp each) and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18 minutes until lightly golden.
7. For the frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter together; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
8. Frost cooled cookies and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg