Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect treat for any autumn gathering. With their soft and thick texture, these cookies capture the essence of fall in every bite. Flavored with warm spices and topped with a creamy frosting, they make an ideal dessert for family dinners, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a cozy cup of tea. The delightful pumpkin flavor combined with the sweetness of cream cheese makes these cookies stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Flavorful Delight: Bursting with pumpkin spice and a creamy frosting, each cookie offers a rich flavor that celebrates the season.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are great additions to any occasion, from Thanksgiving to casual get-togethers.
• Perfectly Soft Texture: The combination of ingredients results in cookies that are soft, thick, and utterly satisfying.
• Make-Ahead Option: The dough can be made ahead of time and chilled, allowing you to bake fresh cookies whenever you desire.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will help you create these delicious Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies without a hitch.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients efficiently.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth frosting consistency quickly, giving you more time to enjoy your treats.
• Baking sheet: A reliable surface for baking that ensures even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.

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
• Cinnamon

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 (175 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the melted butter, pumpkin puree, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Combine until smooth.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

To the wet mixture, add flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a cookie dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 25 minutes. This step helps enhance the flavors and makes it easier to handle.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Roll it into balls about 1 1/2 – 2 tablespoons in size. Place them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet; aim for about 12-14 cookies.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

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

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While cookies are baking, make your frosting. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and softened butter. Beat together using an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Chill frosting until cookies cool completely.

Step 8: Frost the Cookies

Once baked cookies have cooled completely, spread about one tablespoon of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. Finish by sprinkling extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top as desired.

Step 9: Enjoy!

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are ready to be enjoyed! Perfect for sharing or savoring on your own!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delicious Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. They can be served in various ways to elevate your dessert experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee – The rich, bold flavors of coffee pair beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies.
• Chai Latte – A spicy chai latte complements the pumpkin spice flavors perfectly.
• Hot Chocolate – Enjoy with a creamy hot chocolate for a comforting treat.

On a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment – Arrange these cookies alongside other fall treats like apple cider donuts and pecan pie bars for a delightful dessert table.
• Seasonal Fruits – Serve with slices of fresh apples or pears to balance the sweetness.

At Fall Gatherings

• Halloween Parties – These cookies make a festive addition to any Halloween spread.
• Thanksgiving Desserts – Offer them as an alternative to traditional pies; they are sure to impress!

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Baking the perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies takes just a few simple techniques. Follow these tips for optimal results.

• Chill the Dough – Refrigerating the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
• Use Fresh Spices – Fresh spices enhance flavor; ensure your pumpkin pie spice is not too old.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately – Precision in measuring flour and sugar can greatly affect texture and taste.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined to keep your cookies soft and tender.
• Adjust Baking Time – Keep an eye on them; bake until lightly golden at the edges for best texture.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies can enhance your overall dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Apple Crisp – A warm apple crisp brings out fruity notes that complement the spices in the cookies.
2. Pumpkin Soup – A smooth pumpkin soup makes for a comforting first course before dessert.
3. Caramel Flan – This rich dessert contrasts nicely with the lightness of the cookies.
4. Cheese Platter – Soft cheeses like brie add creaminess that pairs well with sweet treats.
5. Chocolate Fondue – Dip fruit or cookie pieces into chocolate fondue for an interactive dessert experience.
6. Spiced Nuts – A bowl of spiced nuts provides crunchy texture and savory contrast to sweet cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, avoiding common pitfalls can make a big difference in your baking success.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the cookie dough helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies. Always refrigerate for at least 25 minutes.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to get precise amounts. This ensures the right texture and flavor.
• Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven. If they turn golden brown, they may become hard. Aim for a soft center when you take them out.
• Ignoring frosting consistency: The cream cheese frosting should be spreadable but not too runny. Adjust with extra powdered sugar if it’s too thin.
• Neglecting spice balance: Pumpkin pie spice is key to flavor. Don’t skimp on it; however, adjust based on your preference for a milder or stronger spice taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they last up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat and cover with a lid for about 1 minute.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting special?

These cookies combine the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, topped with creamy frosting that adds a delightful tanginess.

Can I customize the frosting for my Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add different extracts like almond or maple, or even mix in some finely chopped nuts for added texture.

How do I achieve soft Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies?

Be careful not to overbake them! Remove from the oven when they’re just set and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. The results will still be delicious!

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate if you want them to last longer.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only perfect for fall but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their soft texture paired with creamy frosting makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or adjusting spices according to your taste!