Name: Delicious Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 102 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon Baking soda (Ensure it's fresh for best rise); 1 tablespoon Ground cinnamon (Adjust according to spice preference); 0.5 teaspoon Ground nutmeg (Fresh nutmeg offers richer taste); 0.5 teaspoon Ground cloves (Can swap with ground ginger); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Opt for fine salt for even distribution); 0.5 cups Unsalted butter (Can substitute with coconut oil); 1 cups Granulated sugar (Brown sugar can provide deeper flavor); 1 cup Pumpkin puree (Avoid using pumpkin pie filling); 1 Large Egg (Can substitute with flaxseed meal or applesauce); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Using pure extract is recommended); 4 ounces Cream cheese (Ensure it's softened for mixing); 0.25 cups Unsalted butter (Should be softened); 2 cups Powdered sugar (Adjust to sweetness preference); 1-2 tablespoons Milk or heavy cream (To achieve desired frosting consistency)

As I stepped into my kitchen, a waft of warm spices enveloped me, instantly transporting me to autumn afternoons filled with golden leaves and cozy gatherings. There’s something undeniably magical about baked goods that capture the essence of a season, and these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting do just that. With quick prep and a blend of comforting flavors, they are the perfect solution for anyone looking to swap fast food for a homemade treat. Imagine serving warm cookies that bring smiles and nostalgia, whether it’s for a holiday celebration or a lazy Sunday afternoon. Curiosity piqued? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why Are These Pumpkin Cookies Special?

Irresistible Warmth: Each bite of these cookies offers a hug of spiced pumpkin flavor, making them a fall favorite.
Quick and Simple: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up effortlessly.
Versatile Treat: Whether enjoyed solo or paired with your morning coffee, they fit perfectly into any setting.
Delightful Texture: Soft and chewy, topped generously with creamy frosting, these cookies bring comfort in every morsel.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: They’re sure to impress at gatherings, just like our delicious Lava Brownie Cookies or Vanilla Waffle Cookies.
Let’s indulge in the ultimate autumn experience!

Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure; feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor; adjust according to your spice preference for these pumpkin cookies.
• Ground nutmeg – Intensifies the autumn aroma; fresh nutmeg offers a richer taste, so use sparingly.
• Ground cloves – Brings depth; consider swapping with ground ginger for a different flavor profile.
• Salt – Balances sweetness; opt for fine salt for even distribution.
• Unsalted butter – Creates moisture and richness; coconut oil can be a great dairy-free substitute.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies; brown sugar can provide a deeper flavor for a cozy treat.
• Pumpkin puree – Infuses moisture and a vibrant pumpkin flavor; avoid using pumpkin pie filling as it contains added sugars and spices.
• Large egg – Acts as a binding agent; for an egg-free option, substitute with flaxseed meal or applesauce.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor; using pure extract makes a noticeable difference.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• Cream cheese – The creamy base for the frosting; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens and gives texture to the frosting; adjust to your sweetness preference.
• Milk or heavy cream – Helps achieve the desired frosting consistency; plant-based milk works well for a dairy-free option.

Let’s gather these ingredients and embark on a delightful baking adventure as we create the perfect pumpkin cookies!

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

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon of ground cloves, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This mixture creates a fragrant base for your pumpkin cookies. Set it aside as you prepare the wet ingredients, ensuring your workspace is tidy for a smooth baking experience.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, approximately 3–5 minutes. Watch for a pale, creamy consistency that indicates the sugar is well incorporated, lending a delightful sweetness to your soft pumpkin cookies.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Gradually add in 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix on low speed until everything is smooth and well combined, about 1–2 minutes. The colors should blend beautifully, with the pumpkin giving a warm orange hue that promises delicious flavor in every bite of the cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Carefully add the dry ingredient mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this will ensure your pumpkin cookies remain soft and chewy. Stop when you can still see a bit of the flour mixture; the dough will come together quickly, forming a thick, slightly sticky texture.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. This chilling step is crucial for developing flavor and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. While the dough is chilling, you can preheat your oven and prepare your baking sheets for the next steps.

Step 6: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking your soft pumpkin cookies. While the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper—this will aid in easy clean-up and prevent sticking, allowing your cookies to bake evenly to golden perfection.

Step 7: Shape Cookies
Once the dough has chilled, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Aim for about 1½ tablespoons of dough per cookie to ensure even baking. They should look delightful, plump, and ready to rise in the oven.

Step 8: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft. Avoid overbaking to maintain that cherished chewy texture that characterizes these pumpkin cookies.

Step 9: Cool
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to firm up a bit while still retaining their soft, tender centers. Enjoy the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen as they cool down!

Step 10: Make Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of unsalted butter until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add in 2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated, then add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1-2 tablespoons of milk to reach your desired frosting consistency.

Step 11: Frost Cookies
Once your pumpkin cookies have completely cooled, generously frost each cookie with the cream cheese frosting. Use a spatula or knife to spread the frosting, making each cookie a delightful canvas of creamy goodness. Picture the soft, vibrant cookies being transformed into a cozy treat that will brighten anyone’s day.

Step 12: Decorate (Optional)
For an extra touch of flair, consider adding sprinkles or chopped nuts on top of the frosted cookies. This optional step not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds delightful texture to your soft pumpkin cookies, making them even more inviting for your family and friends.

Step 13: Serve
These soft pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Imagine serving these delightful treats to guests or indulging in them with your morning coffee—either way, they bring the warmth of autumn right into your home!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cookies

Fridge: Keep your pumpkin cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. This will help retain their soft and chewy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying this delightful treat.

Dough Storage: Unbaked dough can be chilled in the fridge for up to 24 hours or wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just let it thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. This will bring back that fresh-baked taste!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks who appreciate meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to prevent drying out and maintain flavor. You can also frost the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake the chilled dough straight from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and baking. This way, you’ll have delightful pumpkin cookies ready to share with family and friends without any last-minute hassle!

What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

As you savor these soft pumpkin cookies, think about enhancing their cozy flavors with delightful pairings that create a complete and comforting experience.

Hot Coffee: A classic pairing, rich coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite even more indulgent. A warm cup can transport you to a cozy coffee shop on a crisp autumn morning.
Spiced Apple Cider: The warm spices in cider complement the pumpkin and cinnamon beautifully. Sipping this cozy beverage alongside the cookies creates a wonderfully festive atmosphere.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast with the texture of the cookies. Imagine a scoop melting deliciously over warm cookies—pure bliss!
Nutty Granola: Crumbling some nutty granola over these cookies adds a delightful crunch, offering a textural contrast to the soft and chewy cookies, making it a fun breakfast idea too!
Chocolate Milk: For a playful touch, serve these cookies with a glass of chocolate milk. The combination of flavors creates a nostalgic experience reminiscent of childhood snacks.
Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: Instead of frosting them all, serve some cookies alongside a bowl of extra cream cheese frosting for dipping. Unleash your sweet tooth with this double frosting delight!

These pairings not only enhance the experience of enjoying soft pumpkin cookies but also create memorable moments filled with warmth and flavor.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Cookies

Fresh Ingredients: Always check your baking soda and spices for freshness. Stale ingredients can lead to disappointing results in your pumpkin cookies.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! This helps the cookies hold their shape and creates the ideal soft texture without spreading too much.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the cookies in the oven. They should be lightly golden at the edges while remaining soft in the center for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for the frosting. This will ensure a smooth and creamy consistency, making it easier to spread on your pumpkin cookies.
Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to add extra spices like cardamom or ginger to elevate the flavor of your pumpkin cookies, or mix in chocolate chips for a delicious twist!

Pumpkin Cookies: Customize Your Delight

Feel free to make these pumpkin cookies your own by exploring a range of delightful variations that’ll tantalize your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk in the frosting for a rich, dairy-free option.
Discover how these little changes open up a world of flavor while keeping the comforting essence intact.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for everyone.
The texture may change slightly, but the delicious pumpkin spice flavor will still shine through.
Nutty Flavor: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
The nuts bring not only a new texture but also a hint of richness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Extra Spices: Boost the flavor by adding ½ teaspoon of ground ginger or a pinch of cardamom.
A little experimentation goes a long way in creating your own signature pumpkin spice blend!
Chocolate Delight: Mix in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Imagine biting into a soft pumpkin cookie filled with melted chocolate—utterly divine!
Frosting Flavor Twist: Try adding 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the cream cheese frosting for a chocolate variation.
It creates an indulgent chocolate pumpkin cookie that’s sure to impress friends and family.
Sweet Potato Swap: Use 1 cup of mashed sweet potato instead of pumpkin for a different flavor profile.
Sweet potatoes bring a sweetness that’s quite delightful on its own, offering a fun variation to this classic.
Heat It Up: A pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes in the cookie dough can add a surprising kick.
Turn your traditional recipe into a spiced sensation that will leave your loved ones guessing!

These variations can completely change the experience of these soft pumpkin cookies! Whether you opt for a nutty addition or decide to amp up the spice, you’ll find that every bite remains deeply satisfying and oh-so-delicious. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorites!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for brands that list 100% pumpkin on the label—avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that will change your cookie’s flavor. You can also use homemade puree by roasting a sugar pumpkin, scooping out the flesh, and blending it until smooth. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid for the best results!

How should I store my pumpkin cookies?
I recommend keeping your pumpkin cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps them maintain their soft, chewy texture. If you’d like to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

Can I freeze the dough for my pumpkin cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked dough for up to 3 months. First, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze the balls until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed—it’s a fantastic way to always have pumpkin cookies on hand!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very good question! If you notice your cookies spreading too much, it’s likely due to warm dough or not chilling it long enough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 1 hour before baking, and ensure your oven is preheated to the right temperature. Additionally, if your butter is too soft or melted, this can cause spreading, so aim for softened but not warm butter when mixing.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can make these pumpkin cookies egg-free by substituting the egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil instead of butter and a plant-based cream cheese for the frosting. Always double-check the ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially if you’re using alternative products!

Can I use other spices or variations in this recipe?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cardamom or allspice to enhance the flavor profile. You can also mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to give a twist to the classic cookie. Just remember to balance your spices to maintain that beautiful pumpkin flavor!