Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect treat for fall and any occasion that calls for something sweet and cozy. These cookies are soft, chewy, and full of warm spices, making them a delightful addition to your dessert table. The creamy frosting adds a delicious touch that is sure to please everyone. Whether you’re enjoying them with a warm cup of tea or sharing them with friends, these cookies are sure to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. First, they are easy to prepare and require simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Second, the combination of pumpkin and spices creates a flavor that is comforting and festive. Finally, these cookies are great for sharing. They make an excellent treat for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. You will love how quickly they disappear!
How to Make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree until everything is well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set and the cookies are lightly browned.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting on top.
How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
You can serve these delicious cookies on a platter for any gathering or enjoy them as an everyday snack. They pair well with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the frosting for a beautiful presentation.
How to Store Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
To store these cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Tips to Make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Ensure your butter is softened before mixing; this will help achieve a light and fluffy texture.
- Do not overmix the cookie dough; mix until just combined to keep the cookies soft.
- Let the cookies cool completely before adding frosting to avoid melting.
Variation
If you want to change things up, you can add chocolate chips or nuts to the cookie dough for extra flavor and texture. You can also make these cookies spicier by adjusting the amounts of cinnamon and ginger.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it is pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.
2. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are set, and they have a light golden color. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
3. Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place the cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers, and they will last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
