Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

There’s something magical about fall baking that I can’t get enough of. The air turns crisp, the leaves begin to fall, and suddenly, I’m in full-on baking mode, surrounded by cinnamon, nutmeg, and all things pumpkin! 🍂 If you’re a fan of soft, spiced cookies and that dreamy, creamy frosting (you know, the kind that just melts in your mouth), then these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are going to be your new favorite autumn treat. Trust me, they’re that good!

These cookies are perfectly soft and fluffy, with just the right amount of pumpkin and spice. Topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting, they make the ultimate cozy snack for when you need a little fall flavor. And don’t even get me started on how good your kitchen will smell while these bake—pure pumpkin-spiced heaven!

Before we get into the recipe…

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Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

There are so many reasons to adore these cookies, but let’s go through a few:

1. Incredible Fall Flavor: These cookies are packed with pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, which are the ultimate trio when it comes to autumn treats.
2. Soft and Chewy: While some cookies are crisp, these pumpkin sugar cookies are delightfully soft and fluffy. Every bite melts in your mouth.
3. Cream Cheese Frosting: The frosting is what truly takes these cookies to the next level. The combination of rich, tangy cream cheese and sweet vanilla makes for the most irresistible topping.
4. Easy to Make: Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, this recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated steps.
5. Perfect for Gifting: These cookies store well and can be packaged beautifully for fall gifts or holiday cookie swaps!

The Flavor Profile: What to Expect

Imagine biting into a cookie that’s soft and tender with hints of pumpkin and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The pumpkin flavor is subtle but definitely present, with the spices rounding out that classic fall taste. Then, you’ve got the frosting—the sweet, tangy, creamy addition that perfectly complements the spiced cookie base. It’s pure comfort food!

I promised you versatile, and here’s proof: These cookies can be enjoyed just as they are, or you can add your own flair with toppings like a sprinkle of cinnamon, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence.

The Benefits of Baking with Pumpkin

Pumpkin isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutritional benefits, too! Pumpkin puree is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, particularly vitamin A and beta-carotene, which are great for your skin and vision. Plus, it’s low in calories and high in fiber, which makes it a great addition to baked goods, offering moisture and a slight natural sweetness without the need for extra fats.

Now, let’s get to the part you’ve been waiting for: the recipe!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

For the Cookies:

• 1/2 cup butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup butter (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Tools You’ll Need:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (optional but helpful)
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Cooling rack

How to Make Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

1st Step: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure an even bake.

2nd Step: Make the Cookie Dough

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, pumpkin puree, and sugar until smooth and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer for this step to make it easier, but a good old-fashioned hand whisk will work, too.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cookie. You want to stir just until everything is combined.

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3rd Step: Bake the Cookies

1. Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Be sure to space them about 2 inches apart, as they will spread slightly while baking.
2. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. You don’t want to overbake these, as the soft, pillowy texture is key!
3. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and well-combined.
2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is creamy and free of lumps.

Step 5: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread a generous amount of the cream cheese frosting over each one. If you’re feeling fancy, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top for extra flavor and visual appeal. These cookies are beautiful enough to serve as-is, but a little garnish never hurts!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

These cookies are the perfect companion for a warm cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy afternoon or sharing them with friends at a fall gathering, they’re guaranteed to bring some pumpkin spice joy into your day!

Pro Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature before mixing. This helps everything incorporate smoothly and ensures a creamy frosting.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stir just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense cookies instead of the soft, fluffy texture we’re after.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): If you find that your dough is too soft or sticky to handle, pop it in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This can help the cookies hold their shape better as they bake.
• Add Extra Spice: If you’re a spice lover, feel free to bump up the cinnamon or add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the dough for a little extra warmth.

Storing Your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

These cookies will stay soft and delicious for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you need to store them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, simply place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the blend includes a binding agent like xanthan gum to help with the texture.

2. Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

I recommend sticking with pure pumpkin puree for this recipe. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which could throw off the balance of flavors in the cookies.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping and baking.

4. Can I freeze the cookies after they’re frosted?

While it’s possible, I find that cream cheese frosting doesn’t freeze as well as buttercream. If you do freeze them frosted, I recommend laying parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent them from sticking together.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

While these cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with a warm, cozy drink can elevate the experience. Here are a few of my favorite pairings:

• Spiced Apple Cider: The tartness of apple cider complements the sweetness of the cookies.
• Pumpkin Spice Latte: Double down on the pumpkin flavor with this classic fall beverage.
• Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai tea are a perfect match for these cookies’ cinnamon and nutmeg notes.
• Hot Cocoa: For a sweeter option, a rich cup of hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with these cookies.

In Conclusion: Why You Need These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies in Your Life

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate fall treat. They’re soft, fluffy, and packed with cozy autumn spices, while the tangy cream cheese frosting takes them to a whole new level of deliciousness. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these cookies are guaranteed to spread some fall cheer.

Craving more fall-inspired treats? Check out these Pumpkin Peanut Butter Energy Bites, Pumpkin Spice Double Chip Cookies, or these bite-sized Apple Crisp Bites.

If you try this recipe, don’t forget to leave a review or share a photo on Pinterest! I’d love to see your creations.

Nutrition Information (per cookie):

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 16g

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