Easy Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Easy Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting: The Perfect Fall Cookie 🍪🎃✨

1. Introduction

Looking for a delightful fall cookie recipe that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin with the creamy sweetness of cream cheese frosting? These pumpkin sugar cookies are your answer! Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy afternoons, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this fall cookie recipe features soft, chewy cookies infused with pumpkin spice and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Let’s dive into how you can create these irresistible homemade cookies that will wow family and friends alike.

2. Ingredients for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3. Preparing the Perfect Fall Cookie Dough

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This ensures even distribution of spices and leavening agents, giving your fall cookie recipe a balanced flavor.

Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step creates a tender crumb in your pumpkin sugar cookies.

Add Pumpkin, Egg, and Vanilla

Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. The pumpkin not only adds flavor but also keeps the cookies moist and chewy.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix, as this can make your cookies tough.

Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps prevent spreading and makes the dough easier to handle, which is essential for perfectly shaped cookies.

4. Baking the Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Shape and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is crucial for the perfect texture and to prevent breakage.

5. Cream Cheese Frosting for Pumpkin Cookies

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then vanilla, and continue to beat until fluffy.

Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting on top. For a festive touch, decorate with sprinkles or edible fall-themed decorations.

6. Storage Tips for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Store the assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To keep the frosting fresh and prevent cookies from drying out, place a layer of parchment paper between the cookies if stacking. These cookies also freeze well—wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to a month.

7. Serving Suggestions for the Best Fall Cookie Experience

Enjoy these pumpkin sugar cookies as a delightful treat with a cup of hot coffee or spiced cider. They pair beautifully with other fall desserts like pumpkin white chocolate chip cookies or gingerbread cheesecake cookies. For an extra festive presentation, arrange them on a platter with seasonal decorations or serve as part of a dessert platter at holiday gatherings.

8. Frequently Asked Questions about Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Can I substitute canned pumpkin with fresh pumpkin?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure it’s well mashed and cooled before adding to the dough.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version that still tastes divine.

How long does it take to prepare and bake?

The total time from start to finish, including chilling, is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Baking itself takes about 10-12 minutes per batch.

Are these cookies suitable for dietary restrictions?

These cookies can be modified to be dairy-free by using dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitutes. Always check labels for ingredients.

9. Conclusion

These pumpkin sugar cookies with cream cheese frosting are a fall favorite for good reason. They combine the warmth of pumpkin spice, the sweetness of sugar cookies, and the creamy tang of frosting into one fabulous treat. Perfect for holiday bake sales, family gatherings, or just indulging on a cozy afternoon, this fall cookie recipe is sure to become a new tradition. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy baking these seasonal delights that everyone will love!

Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Fullstar Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer — Make prep work easier with this versatile food chopper, perfect for chopping pumpkin or preparing other ingredients efficiently.
• Ninja SLUSHi with RapidChill Technology, 88 oz. Frozen Drink & Slushie Machine — Chill your dough quickly, ensuring perfect texture and faster baking.
• KitchenAid Classic Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer — Mix your dough effortlessly and achieve a smooth, uniform consistency.
• Kitchen Utensil Set-Silicone Cooking Utensils — Essential tools for mixing, frosting, and decorating your cookies with precision.

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