Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect fall treat! These delightful cookies combine the warmth of pumpkin and spices with a luscious cream cheese frosting. They’re great for gatherings, cozy afternoons, or simply enjoying at home. Soft, thick, and full of flavor, these cookies will surely become a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a rich, warm taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or just as a sweet snack any day of the week.
• Frosting Perfection: The cream cheese frosting adds a sweet, tangy finish that perfectly complements the spiced cookies.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are sure to impress family and friends with their delightful flavor and appealing presentation.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference in achieving the perfect cookie texture and flavor.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without worrying about spills.
• Electric mixer: This tool ensures your cream cheese frosting is smooth and fluffy, making it easy to spread on cookies.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet promotes even baking, helping your cookies turn out perfectly golden every time.

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 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 to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Add the melted butter, pumpkin puree, white sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
2. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to mix in your dry ingredients:
1. Add flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt into the wet mixture.
2. Stir until a cookie dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap:
1. Place it in the refrigerator for about 25 minutes to chill.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Once chilled:
1. Remove dough from fridge.
2. Roll into balls about 1 1/2 – 2 tablespoons each.
3. Place them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet (you should get about 12–14 cookies).

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 18 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting

While cookies are baking:
1. In a medium bowl, add softened cream cheese and butter.
2. Beat together using an electric mixer until smooth.
3. Gradually beat in powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
4. Refrigerate frosting until cookies are cooled.

Step 8: Frost Cookies

After removing cookies from oven:
1. Allow them to cool completely.
2. Spread about a tablespoon of cream cheese frosting on each cookie.
3. For an extra touch, sprinkle with additional pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Your delicious Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are ready! Enjoy these delightful treats yourself or share them with friends and family!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate your dessert experience. These cookies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can enhance their flavors and presentation.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
• Tea: A warm chai or herbal tea adds a cozy touch that pairs well with pumpkin spices.
• Hot Chocolate: For a sweeter option, hot chocolate provides a delightful contrast to the spiced cookies.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cheesecakes: Offer individual cheesecakes for a creamy contrast to your cookies.
• Brownies: Rich, fudgy brownies create a nice variety in texture and flavor on the platter.
• Fruit Tartlets: Fresh fruit tartlets provide a refreshing balance to the spiced sweetness of the cookies.

At Seasonal Gatherings

• Halloween Treats: These cookies are perfect for Halloween parties; add some spooky decorations for fun.
• Thanksgiving Desserts: Incorporate these cookies into your Thanksgiving dessert table as a seasonal favorite.
• Holiday Cookie Exchange: Share them at cookie exchanges; their unique flavor will impress your friends and family.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting is all about technique and care. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling helps the flavors meld and prevents spreading, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your pumpkin pie spice is fresh for maximum flavor impact.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Cooling allows the frosting to set properly without melting off the warm cookies.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of powdered sugar in your frosting for desired sweetness.

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

Pairing side dishes with Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies enhances their appeal. Here are some delightful options that complement these sweet treats.

1. Apple Slices – Fresh, crisp apple slices offer a refreshing crunch that balances sweetness.
2. Caramel Sauce – Drizzle caramel sauce over apple slices or serve it alongside for dipping.
3. Whipped Cream – Light and airy whipped cream makes an excellent topping or side for added creaminess.
4. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a wholesome side that pairs well with desserts.
5. Pumpkin Soup – A warm pumpkin soup provides a savory contrast before enjoying your sweet treats.
6. Cheese Board – Include cheeses like brie or gouda to add savory flavors that enhance the cookie experience.
7. Spiced Nuts – Roasted spiced nuts offer crunch and depth that complement pumpkin flavors nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to success. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always chill your dough for at least 25 minutes.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much may result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and tender.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to unevenly baked cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect the dough’s texture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

• Skipping the Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a delicious touch that balances the spice and sweetness. Don’t skip it; it enhances the overall flavor!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freeze un-frosted cookies in a single layer for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use different spices in my Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor twist.

How do I make my cookies thicker?

To achieve thicker cookies, chill your dough longer and avoid flattening them before baking.

Can I substitute pumpkin puree with something else?

You can use sweet potato puree as a tasty alternative if desired, but it may slightly alter the flavor profile.

What is the best way to store leftover cream cheese frosting?

Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for fall gatherings and family celebrations. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them a delightful treat that everyone will love. You can customize these cookies by adding nuts or chocolate chips or adjusting the spices based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!