Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for a fall treat that truly warms the soul, these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are about to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine biting into a perfectly soft, spiced pumpkin cookie that melts in your mouth, topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that’s just the right amount of sweet. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon snack or sharing at a festive gathering, these cookies bring together comfort and flavor in an irresistible way that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but play a crucial role to achieve that perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture. Each one was chosen not only for taste but also for how it contributes to the beautiful soft crumb and that signature pumpkin warmth.

• 1 cup butter, softened: Adds richness and helps keep the cookies soft and tender.
• 1 cup sugar and 1⁄2 cup brown sugar: The brown sugar adds a hint of molasses depth, while granulated sugar balances sweetness.
• 1 cup pumpkin purée: The star ingredient giving moisture, flavor, and that lovely autumn color.
• 1 large egg: Binds the mixture and adds structure.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, fragrant note.
• 3 cups flour: Provides the foundation and structure of your cookie.
• 2 tsp baking powder and 1⁄2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough while keeping them airy and soft.
• 1⁄2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the spices.
• 2 tsp cinnamon: Gives that classic warm fall spice flavor.
• 1⁄2 tsp nutmeg: Adds a cozy, aromatic undertone.
• 1⁄2 tsp ginger: Brings a subtle kick that livens up the spices.
• 1⁄2 cup butter, softened (for frosting): Creates a smooth and creamy frosting base.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Gives that tangy richness that perfectly complements the pumpkin cookie.
• 1 cup icing sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a spreadable consistency.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds flavor lift and aromatic sweetness.
• Pinch of salt (for frosting): Balances out the sweetness and enhances the cream cheese flavor.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is ready to bake your cookies to the perfect soft and tender texture with just a touch of golden crisp edges.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This creamy base is essential for the soft chewy texture your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting will have.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin, Egg, and Vanilla

Mix in the pumpkin purée, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and fully combined. The pumpkin ensures moist softness while the egg helps everything bind perfectly.

Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This mix of spices brings that classic fall flavor you expect and the leavening agents ensure a perfectly textured cookie.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet pumpkin mixture. Stir gently just until combined; overmixing could make the cookies tough rather than soft and tender.

Step 6: Shape Cookies on Baking Sheet

Dollop spoonfuls of dough onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart – they will spread a bit but you want them to keep their shape.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges show a light golden hue. Once out of the oven, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting. This step is crucial to avoid melty frosting.

Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cookies cool, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the cream cheese and continue beating until the mixture is silky smooth – this smooth base is what makes the frosting so dreamy.

Step 9: Add Sugar, Vanilla, and Salt to Frosting

Slowly beat in icing sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until light and fluffy. The frosting should be sweet, tangy, and spreadable, perfectly complementing the spiced pumpkin cookie.

Step 10: Frost Your Cookies

Once completely cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over your cookies. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top to elevate the presentation and flavor of your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the frosting adds an inviting aroma and visual charm. You can also experiment with finely chopped toasted pecans or a light drizzle of caramel sauce to add texture and contrast.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of chai tea or a rich latte to balance the sweetness and spices. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board layered with autumn leaves or a festive platter for seasonal gatherings. For parties, stack them with parchment paper between layers in a decorative tin; it keeps them soft and makes a lovely gift idea too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This keeps the frosting fresh and the cookies wonderfully soft.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked and cooled cookies without frosting. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. Thaw them fully before frosting to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you prefer your cookies slightly warm, gently heat them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, but make sure to add the frosting after warming to keep it creamy and intact.

FAQs

Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices?

Absolutely! Pumpkin pie spice is a convenient blend that includes cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, so you can simply replace the individual spices with an equal amount for the same cozy flavor.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for frosting?

If cream cheese isn’t available, try a simple buttercream frosting or a maple glaze. However, the tangy cream cheese frosting really complements the pumpkin cookies in a way that’s tough to beat.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

To veganize this recipe, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacer instead of the egg, and use vegan cream cheese for the frosting.

Are these cookies gluten-free friendly?

Not as written, but you can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that’s meant for baking. Just be mindful that texture may vary slightly.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Yes! Adding chopped walnuts or pecans gives a delightful crunch, and chocolate chips bring extra sweetness. Fold them into the dough in step five for even distribution.

Final Thoughts

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect cozy treat to fill your kitchen with warmth and irresistible flavors. Baking them is straightforward and the end result is pure cookie bliss. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share these soft, spiced delights with your loved ones—they’re sure to become a beloved favorite that you’ll come back to season after season!

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