Name: Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting for Fall Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (100% pure pumpkin puree); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the cookies); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Adds depth of flavor); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Room temperature); 1 large Egg Yolk (For binding); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 tsp Baking Powder; 1/2 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon; 1/4 tsp Nutmeg; 1/4 tsp Cloves; 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened); 2 cups Powdered Sugar; a pinch Salt (For frosting)

As the chill of fall settles in, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven, filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods. One recipe that perfectly captures this seasonal magic is my Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. These delightful cookies are not only incredibly easy to whip up, but they also serve as the ultimate crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Made with real pumpkin puree and a blend of fragrant spices, they offer a soft and chewy texture that’s simply irresistible. Plus, who can resist that luscious cream cheese frosting that takes them over the top? Whether you’re sharing them with family during a festive evening or indulging solo with a steaming mug of tea, these cookies are sure to warm your heart. Curious how to make this perfect fall treat? Let’s dive in!

Why are these cookies a fall favorite?

Soft, Chewy Texture: These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are a delight to bite into, offering a comforting softness that pairs beautifully with the rich spiced flavors of fall.

Unforgettable Flavor Combination: The marriage of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a taste that is both nostalgic and seasonal, perfect for cozy gatherings.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, these cookies come together in no time—ideal for busy bakers who still want to whip up something special.

Versatile Treat: Whether frosted with cream cheese or enjoyed plain, they adapt to your cravings and occasions. Perfect for everything from holiday parties to cozy nights at home!

Perfect Pairing: Enjoy them warm with your favorite cup of coffee or tea, just like with Pumpkin Cream Cheese treats or Pumpkin Sugar Cookies for an extra festive delight.

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Ingredients

• For a cozy fall delight

For the Cookie Dough

Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and that signature pumpkin flavor. Make sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree!
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies while ensuring a tender, pleasant crumb.
Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor with hints of molasses that harmonize beautifully with spices.
Unsalted Butter – Enriches the dough for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Egg Yolk – Helps bind the cookies without making them too cakey; for a vegan substitute, use 1 tbsp applesauce.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor, enhancing the warm spices.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the cookie dough for the perfect texture.
Baking Powder – Ensures the cookies rise slightly while keeping them soft and chewy.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the wonderful flavors.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses a classic fall aroma and warmth into each bite.
Nutmeg and Cloves – Deepen the spiced profile to complement the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – Adds a rich, tangy layer to the frosting that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to a smooth, fluffy texture for the frosting.
A Pinch of Salt (for frosting) – Enhances the sweetness, bringing out all the flavors of the frosting.

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move to the fun part—baking these delightful Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies will bake evenly and achieve that perfect, tender texture. While the oven warms up, gather your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial, as it evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices throughout your cookie dough, enriching the flavor of your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In another bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. The creamed butter should appear pale in color and smooth, a perfect foundation for your pumpkin-flavored goodness.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Blend in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugars. Beat everything together until fully combined and smooth. The moisture from the pumpkin will give your cookies a delightful chewiness, adding a wonderful depth to your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just blended. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to ensure your dough remains tender, which is key for achieving that soft texture typical of Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

Step 6: Form Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing each dough ball about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Aim for uniformity in size, as this helps ensure even baking across all of your precious cookies.

Step 7: Bake Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes; the edges should be set while the centers remain slightly soft. This is crucial to ensure your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies achieve their signature chewy texture.

Step 8: Cool On Racks
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. After they’ve set, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling period allows your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies to firm up just right, making them the perfect canvas for creamy frosting.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and a pinch of salt, mixing until fluffy and well-combined. The frosting should be rich and creamy, a luscious topping that perfectly complements your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

Step 10: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled completely, use a knife or spatula to generously apply the cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. As you frost, let your creativity flow! Thick, frosted layers create a delicious balance between the pumpkin spice and creaminess of the frosting in your delightful treat.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delightful cookies are the perfect sweet companion for a cozy gathering or a relaxed afternoon treat, enriching your fall experience.

Warm Spiced Chai: The aromatic spices in chai complement the pumpkin cookies beautifully, creating a warm, comforting pairing for chilly days.
Caramel Apple Cider: This sweet, tangy drink echoes the flavors of fall and enhances the cinnamon notes in the cookies while adding a refreshing twist.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: A bowl of velvety soup offers a savory contrast to the sweet cookies, creating a balanced meal that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
Candied Pecans: These crunchy, sweet bites add a delightful textural contrast and bring additional nutty warmth that complements the spices in the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy goodness of vanilla ice cream provides an indulgent touch, making every bite of the cookie even more pleasure-filled and decadent.
Pecan Pie Tart: This classic dessert pairs well alongside the cookies, creating a sumptuous spread that’s sure to please any crowd at your fall festivities.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes connects with the cookies’ pumpkin flavor, offering a delightful, comforting side for a seasonal feast.
Hazelnut Coffee: The nutty, rich flavors of hazelnut coffee create an irresistible pairing, enhancing the cozy vibe while balancing the sweetness of the frosting.

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these cookies to suit your taste or dietary needs!

Vegan Delight: Swap unsalted butter with plant-based butter and replace the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of applesauce for a vegan treat.
Frosting-Free: For a lighter snack, enjoy the cookies plain, letting the pumpkin flavors shine through without frosting.
Coconut Sugar Sweetness: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or ginger for a spicy kick that enhances the warmth of your cookies.
Nutty Texture: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for an added crunch and a heartier texture.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosted cookies for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
Festive Colors: Stir in a handful of autumn-themed sprinkles just before baking for a fun, festive touch perfect for gatherings.

For more pumpkin-inspired treats, check out my recipe for Pumpkin Cream Cheese muffins or indulge in some warm Pumpkin Sugar Cookies that capture the essence of fall!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, ready for a cozy snack anytime!

Fridge: You can refrigerate the cookies to extend freshness, but it’s best to consume them within 5 days. Make sure to wrap them well to avoid drying out.

Freezer: Freeze your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen cookies overnight in the fridge and then allow them to come to room temperature. Warm briefly in the microwave for a delightful treat!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Watch the Time: Don’t overbake your cookies; they should be slightly underdone in the center when you take them out. This ensures that the Pumpkin Sugar Cookies remain soft and chewy.
Cool Properly: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack. This helps maintain their delicate structure while cooling.
Storage Secrets: Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container. They’ll last up to a week at room temperature, or you can freeze them for up to 2 months.
Frosting Delight: For a perfect cream cheese frosting, beat until fluffy and smooth. It should spread easily—if it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve the right consistency.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your taste! Adding a pinch more nutmeg or cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile of your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours; this not only allows the flavors to meld but also makes it easier to enjoy fresh cookies anytime. Simply scoop the dough onto baking sheets and freeze the individual cookie portions if you wish to bake them later. For best quality, be sure to thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator before baking. As for the cream cheese frosting, it can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. When ready to serve, frost the cooled cookies, and you’ll have a delectable fall treat with minimal effort!

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best pumpkin puree for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, look for 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Ensure it has a smooth consistency and a rich orange hue, which indicates that it’s packed with fresh pumpkin goodness. You can often find it in cans labeled “pure pumpkin” at your local grocery store.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Very good question! These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you’d like to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, ensuring they are wrapped properly to prevent drying out. This way, they’re always ready for a cozy snack!

Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Of course! To freeze your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies, start by flash freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. This usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and let them come to room temperature before serving!

What can I do if my cookies turn out too cakey?
No worries, it happens to the best of us! If your cookies are too cakey, it could be due to over-mixing the dough or using too much flour. To prevent this in the future, mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Additionally, be sure to measure your flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off rather than scooping directly from the bag, as this can compact the flour and make your cookies denser.

Are there any common allergens in this recipe I should be aware of?
Definitely! This Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe contains common allergens like butter, eggs, and cream cheese. For a vegan option, substitute the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of unsweetened applesauce and use plant-based butter and cream cheese alternatives. Always check product labels for any specific allergens, especially when baking for others!