There’s something magical about soft pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting that makes them a must-have during the fall season. Picture this: warm, spiced cookies that melt in your mouth, topped with a rich, creamy layer of frosting that feels like a hug from grandma. Perfect side dishes for fall Cream cheese recipes to try The aroma wafts through your kitchen, drawing in family and friends like moths to a flame, all eagerly awaiting their share of these delightful treats. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Cheesy Potato Soup recipe.
As I recall my first attempt at baking these cookies, I can almost hear my kids giggling in anticipation, their eyes wide with excitement. The kitchen turned into a whirlwind of flour and spice as we mixed ingredients and shared laughter. These cookies are perfect for cozy autumn gatherings or simply indulging on a chilly afternoon while binging your favorite show. For more inspiration, check out this Greek Yogurt Muffins recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These soft pumpkin cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for novice bakers
- Their delightful flavor profile combines warmth and sweetness, offering a taste of autumn in every bite
- The visual appeal is irresistible; topped with velvety cream cheese frosting, they look just as good as they taste
- Versatile enough for any occasion, they shine at parties or as a simple snack at home
I remember one particular Halloween when my pumpkin cookies were the star of the dessert table, gobbling up compliments faster than I could serve them.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: Low-carb alternatives for desserts.
All-Purpose Flour: A standard choice for most baked goods; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Pumpkin Puree: Use 100% pure pumpkin puree for a rich flavor; avoid pumpkin pie filling.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works well; it adds moisture and depth to the cookies.
Cinnamon: A classic spice that brings warmth; feel free to add nutmeg for an extra kick.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness; make sure it’s softened before mixing.
Baking Soda: Essential for leavening; check expiration dates to ensure effectiveness.
Cream Cheese: Room temperature cream cheese ensures smooth frosting; you’ll want it easily spreadable.
Powdered Sugar: For sweetness in the frosting; sift it before mixing to avoid lumps.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
Create Your Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, beat together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin puree and mix until combined smoothly.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and any additional spices you love. Stir gently until just combined to keep your cookies light.
Scoop and Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each cookie because they will spread.
Bake Until Perfectly Set: Bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden while centers remain soft. Let them cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Frost Your Cookies**: While your cookies cool completely, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Spread generously on each cooled cookie before enjoying.
With these steps complete, you will have perfectly soft pumpkin cookies adorned with luscious cream cheese frosting ready to impress everyone!
Now gather around the table because it’s time to enjoy these delectable treats that will surely bring warmth and joy during chilly days ahead!
You Must Know
- Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful fall treat
- The balance of spices and sweetness makes them irresistible
- Perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings, they fill your home with warm, inviting scents that scream comfort
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the dry ingredients first to ensure even distribution, then cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy. Add the pumpkin last to maintain its moisture.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor. You can also swap the cream cheese frosting for a maple glaze for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect cookie texture, chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking
- This helps prevent spreading
- Always check your baking powder’s expiration date; fresh leavening agents make all the difference
- Use real pumpkin purée rather than pie filling for true flavor
Sharing these cookies with my friends always brings smiles! One time, my neighbor insisted they were store-bought—talk about a compliment!
FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for Soft Pumpkin Cookies?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin puree and not pie filling.
How do I know when my Soft Pumpkin Cookies are done?
They should be soft but set around the edges; a light golden color indicates doneness.
Can I freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Delicious cream cheese dishes.
Yes! Freeze them individually to preserve their softness and frost once thawed.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of fall with these soft pumpkin cookies topped with creamy, luscious cream cheese frosting. Each cookie melts in your mouth, offering a delightful balance of spices and sweetness that will make them a favorite at any autumn gathering. Perfect for cozy afternoons or festive celebrations, these treats are sure to bring smiles and joy to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (100% pure)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the pumpkin puree and mix until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and any additional spices you prefer until just combined.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft. Cool slightly on sheets before transferring to wire racks.
- For frosting, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Spread generously on cooled cookies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading. Try adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. For a twist, substitute cream cheese frosting with a maple glaze.