Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy treat that captures the essence of autumn, look no further than these Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. They’re soft, tender, and packed with warm pumpkin pie spices, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that balances sweetness and tang perfectly. Every bite is a comforting hug, making this recipe an absolute must for your seasonal baking lineup or any time you crave that irresistible pumpkin spice flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are wonderfully simple yet each plays an important role. From the smooth pumpkin puree that adds moisture and a subtle earthiness, to the carefully balanced spices that bring warmth, every component contributes to the cookie’s perfect texture and deep flavor.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• 1/3 cup pumpkin puree: Adds moisture and authentic pumpkin flavor without overpowering sweetness.
• 1 cup white sugar: Sweetens the cookies and lifts the delicate pumpkin notes.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy base for chewy yet soft cookies.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and adds a little lift.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a floral, sweet aroma.
• 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice: The star blend bringing cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove magic.
• 1/4 tsp baking powder: Gives the cookies a subtle rise for a light texture.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies the spices.
• Cinnamon (for sprinkling): Adds an extra touch of warmth on top of the frosting.
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a creamy, tangy frosting that perfectly complements the cookie.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Makes the frosting silky and smooth.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without graininess.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Rounds out the frosting’s flavor with subtle depth.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready while you mix your ingredients. This ensures the perfect baking environment so your cookies bake evenly and come out beautifully soft and golden.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, pumpkin puree, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until you have a silky-smooth mixture. This careful blending guarantees that moisture and sweetness are evenly distributed throughout your cookies.

Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Next, add in your flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt. Stir these in gently until the dough just comes together. Overmixing can toughen cookies, so aim for a cohesive dough with a soft texture that’s ready to chill.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for 25 minutes. This step helps firm up the dough, allowing the flavors to meld and making it easier to roll into evenly sized balls.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Remove the dough from the fridge and scoop out about 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons per cookie. Roll each into a ball and space them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You’ll get about 12 to 14 cookies, perfect for sharing or savoring over several days. Bake for 18 minutes until the edges are just set.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cookies bake, whip up the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, blending until fluffy. Keep the frosting chilled until the cookies are cool and ready for their sweet topping.

Step 7: Frost and Garnish

Once your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting have cooled, generously spread about a tablespoon of frosting on each cookie. For a finishing touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice atop the frosting for an extra scent and flavor boost.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Add a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a tiny sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans to bring texture and an additional warmth. Freshly grated orange zest can also brighten these cookies, enhancing their seasonal charm.

Side Dishes

Pair your cookies with a hot beverage like pumpkin spice latte, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk to complement their sweet-spiced goodness. These pairings create a perfect cozy snack or dessert moment.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these cookies on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves for a charming display at holiday gatherings. You can also nestle them in decorative cupcake liners or stack them with parchment paper between layers to turn them into delightful gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your frosted Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps the frosting fresh and the cookies soft but firm enough to handle.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cookie dough balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready, bake from frozen with a few extra minutes added to the baking time. For frosted cookies, freeze on a tray first, then wrap tightly to avoid frosting damage.

Reheating

For warmed cookies, gently heat them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a low oven until soft and cozy. Avoid overheating to preserve that dreamy cream cheese frosting texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for the puree?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe and helps keep the texture smooth while delivering that classic pumpkin flavor.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can create your own blend by mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This DIY spice mix is just as delicious and lets you control the exact flavor profile.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Yes, substitute an equal amount of gluten-free baking flour blend for regular all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different but still tasty.

Is it possible to make the cream cheese frosting dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cream cheese and vegan butter substitute. With those swaps, you can still get that creamy frosting taste and texture.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough before baking is key to keeping the cookies from spreading excessively. Also, make sure your oven temperature is accurate to get the best rise and hold shape.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly special about Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting that makes any day feel festive and cozy. Whether you bake a batch to share with friends or keep them all to yourself, this recipe delivers a wonderful mix of comforting flavors and textures you’ll want to revisit again and again. So, grab your mixing bowl and enjoy every sweet, spiced bite!

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