Irresistible Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

The aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm, cozy hug. Picture this: golden-brown cookies, soft and pillowy, topped with velvety cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. It’s like autumn on a plate, making you feel as if you’ve just stepped into a pumpkin patch on a crisp day.

These delightful cookies are not just for fall; they’re perfect year-round. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just want to indulge on a random Tuesday, they will bring joy to any occasion. Trust me; one bite will have you reminiscing about childhood baking days when the kitchen was filled with laughter and sweet smells!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for our cookies, providing structure and chewiness.
• Canned Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree—not the spiced version—to keep the flavor authentic and rich.
• Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and depth of flavor; light or dark works well here.
• Granulated Sugar: To sweeten the cookies just right; it balances out the spices beautifully.
• Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together; ensure they are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Our secret leavening agents that give the cookies their fluffy texture.
• Ground Cinnamon: For that warm, inviting spice flavor that screams autumn.
• Ground Nutmeg: A pinch adds warmth and complexity to our cookie dough.
• Salt: Just a sprinkle enhances all the flavors in our cookies.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened; this is the star of our frosting show!
• Unsalted Butter: Also softened, it pairs perfectly with cream cheese for smoothness.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens up our frosting without any gritty texture—smooth is key!
• Vanilla Extract: For an aromatic finish that elevates the frosting from good to heavenly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper—this will prevent any sticky situations later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This helps distribute the leaveners and spices evenly throughout your cookie dough.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, canned pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy—this step is crucial for achieving that dreamy texture we’re after!

Step 4: Blend It All Together

Gradually add the dry mixture into your wet ingredients while stirring gently. Don’t overmix! We want those cookies soft and tender.

Step 5: Scoop & Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dollops of dough onto your prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until edges start to turn golden. Your kitchen should smell like heaven by now!

Step 6: Frost Those Cookies

Once cooled completely (patience is a virtue!), whip together softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable. Slather it generously on each cookie because why not?

Transfer to plates and serve your Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting for an irresistible treat that’s bound to bring smiles all around! Enjoy every last crumb!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix together the dry ingredients first, then cream together the butter and sugar before adding in the pumpkin puree and vanilla. Finally, fold in the dry mix until well combined for fluffy cookies.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with these pumpkin cookies! Substitute chocolate chips for nuts or add a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra warmth. You can also swap the cream cheese frosting for a simple glaze if you prefer a lighter option.

Storing & Reheating

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them later, freeze the baked cookies without frosting, then thaw and frost when ready to eat.

I remember the first time I made pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting for a family gathering. My cousin claimed he didn’t like pumpkin, yet he devoured half the batch! That day, our kitchen turned into a sweet battleground filled with laughter and crumbs.

FAQs :

What are Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are delicious, soft cookies made with pumpkin puree and spices. The addition of cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cookies. These treats are perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or any time you crave a flavorful dessert.

How do I store Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

To keep your Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies without frosting and then adding the cream cheese frosting once thawed.

Can I make Pumpkin Cookies without cream cheese frosting?

Yes! You can enjoy Pumpkin Cookies on their own or with other toppings if you prefer. A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a glaze made from milk and sugar can also enhance their flavor without the richness of cream cheese frosting. Feel free to experiment according to your taste preferences!

Are Pumpkin Cookies gluten-free?

You can easily adapt Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting to be gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure that any additional ingredients, like baking powder and spices, are also certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these delightful cookies regardless of their dietary needs.

Conclusion for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting :

In summary, Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting offer a delightful blend of flavors that celebrate the essence of fall. These cookies are easy to prepare and perfect for various occasions. Whether you choose to enjoy them plain or topped with cream cheese frosting, they are sure to please any crowd. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and experience the warm, comforting taste of pumpkin spice goodness!

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Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate autumn treat, perfect for any occasion. These soft, pillowy cookies, infused with warm spices, are topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply indulging on a cozy afternoon, these cookies will evoke nostalgic memories of baking days gone by. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweetness and spice that brings the spirit of fall right to your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture; stir gently until just mixed.
5. Drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto prepared sheets about two inches apart. Bake for 12–15 minutes until edges are golden.
6. Let cookies cool completely before frosting: beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spread frosting generously on each cookie.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg