Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect treat for fall! These delightful cookies combine the warm flavors of pumpkin and spice with a creamy frosting that adds just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a holiday, or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, these cookies are sure to impress. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them an instant favorite among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip up these cookies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a warm, inviting taste that defines the fall season.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are versatile enough for parties, holidays, or just a sweet snack any day of the week.
• Creamy Frosting: The tangy cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the spiced cookies, adding an extra layer of flavor.
• Great for Sharing: Bake a batch to share with friends or family, or keep them all to yourself—no judgment here!

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies is simple with the right tools. Gather your equipment to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly and making cookie dough.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when beating the cream cheese frosting to perfection.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking of your cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easy to remove baked cookies without mess.

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. This ensures that it’s hot enough to bake your cookies evenly.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl:
* Add the melted butter, pumpkin puree, white sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
* Combine until smooth.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Next:
* Sprinkle in the 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 for 25 minutes. Chilling helps enhance texture in your cookies.

Step 5: Shape Cookies

Once chilled:
* Roll dough into balls about 1½ – 2 tablespoons each.
* Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Aim for about 12-14 cookies total.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 18 minutes. They should be lightly golden around the edges.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While cookies cool:
* In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter using an electric mixer until well-blended.
* Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until creamy. Refrigerate until ready to frost.

Step 8: Frost Your Cookies

Once cooled:
* Spread about one tablespoon of frosting on top of each cookie.
* Optional: Sprinkle some extra cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on top for added flavor.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Serve these Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies warm or at room temperature. Enjoy sharing them with loved ones or savor them alone!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your delicious Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any gathering or cozy night in. Consider these creative serving suggestions to make the most of your tasty treats.

Share with Friends

• Invite friends over for a fall-themed gathering and serve these cookies alongside warm apple cider or herbal tea for a comforting experience.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter, perhaps with some autumn leaves or mini pumpkins, creating an eye-catching centerpiece for your dessert table.

Cookie Sandwiches

• For a fun twist, use two pumpkin spice sugar cookies to create cookie sandwiches filled with cream cheese frosting. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on the edges for extra flavor!

Gift Bags

• Package the cookies in cute bags tied with twine as thoughtful gifts for neighbors, friends, or teachers. It’s a sweet way to share the joy of fall.

Ice Cream Topping

• Crumble the cookies over vanilla or pumpkin ice cream as a delightful topping. This pairing enhances both flavors and adds a wonderful texture contrast.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting involves attention to detail and a few handy tips.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring thicker and softer cookies.

• Use Fresh Spices: Using fresh pumpkin pie spice will enhance the flavor profile of your cookies, making them more aromatic and delicious.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision in measuring flour and sugar is key for achieving the right texture. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate results.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. This keeps your cookies soft rather than tough.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cookies to cool fully before applying frosting to ensure it doesn’t melt off.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies can create a delightful dessert spread. Here are some excellent options:

1. Apple Cider – A warm cup of spiced apple cider complements the flavors of pumpkin perfectly.

2. Chai Tea – The aromatic spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with pumpkin spice, creating a cozy beverage pairing.

3. Creamy Vanilla Yogurt – Serve small bowls of creamy yogurt drizzled with honey as a refreshing side that balances sweetness.

4. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside assorted crackers for a savory contrast.

5. Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup can enhance the seasonal theme while offering comfort.

6. Mixed Nuts – A bowl of spiced mixed nuts adds crunch and a savory touch that pairs well with sweet desserts.

7. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad featuring apples, pears, and pomegranates provides freshness alongside rich cookies.

8. Mini Cheesecakes – Individual-sized cheesecakes can complement your cookies while continuing the indulgent dessert theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using too much flour: Adding extra flour can lead to dry cookies. Always measure accurately and spoon flour into the measuring cup without packing it down.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can result in cookies that spread too much while baking. Be sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 25 minutes.
• Overbaking: Leaving cookies in the oven too long makes them hard instead of soft and chewy. Keep an eye on them and remove them once they are lightly golden.
• Skipping the frosting: The cream cheese frosting complements the cookies beautifully. Don’t skip it; instead, spread it generously on cooled cookies for added flavor.
• Not using fresh spices: Old spices lose their potency, affecting the cookie’s flavor. Always use fresh pumpkin pie spice for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
• Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat, warming cookies for about 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making these delicious cookies, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute one egg with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed and 2.5 tablespoons of water as a vegan alternative.

What is the best way to store Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Your cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?

Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked cookie dough balls before baking. Just thaw them in the fridge before baking.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delightful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them at home or sharing them with friends, these soft and flavorful treats are sure to impress. Feel free to customize with different spices or toppings like nuts or chocolate chips!