Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re searching for a fall treat that perfectly balances warm spices, tender texture, and a luscious topping, you absolutely must try these Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. These cookies are a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies with the rich, cozy flavor of pumpkin and traditional autumn spices. Each bite melts in your mouth, and the creamy frosting on top elevates them to pure comfort food heaven. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or a quiet night in, these cookies will quickly become a seasonal favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in these cookies. Each one plays an essential role, from the moist pumpkin puree to the aromatic pumpkin pie spice that makes every bite sing.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• 1/3 cup pumpkin puree: Adds moisture and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor with a hint of natural sweetness.
• 1 cup white sugar: Sweetens the dough and aids in browning for pretty golden edges.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The structural foundation, giving the cookies their soft but sturdy texture.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds extra moisture.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness with a warm vanilla aroma.
• 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice: The star seasoning that brings those classic fall flavors forward.
• 1/4 tsp baking powder: Provides a subtle lift for lightness in the cookie.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies all the other flavors.
• Cinnamon: A sprinkle on top for an extra dash of warm spice.
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The base of the luscious frosting, adding tang and creaminess.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Combines with cream cheese for smooth texture in the frosting.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to just the right consistency.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Gives the frosting a subtle depth of flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First thing’s first — set your oven to 350 degrees. This temperature helps the cookies bake evenly, developing a soft interior with lightly crisp edges. Grab a large mixing bowl because we’ll be combining both wet and dry ingredients shortly.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Into your large bowl, pour melted butter, pumpkin puree, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Blend these together thoroughly until the mixture is nice and smooth. You’ll notice how the pumpkin adds a moist, velvety texture that makes these cookies extra special.

Step 3: Blend in Dry Ingredients

Next, add the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently until a soft cookie dough forms. This mix of spices and leavening agents will bring those cozy fall flavors and just the right amount of rise to your cookies.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover your bowl tightly with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge for 25 minutes. Chilling the dough firms it up, making it easier to handle and helping your cookies maintain their shape when baked.

Step 5: Shape and Arrange

Once chilled, scoop out 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into balls. Place them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet; this recipe should yield about 12 to 14 cookies. This step sets you up for perfectly round, evenly baked cookies.

Step 6: Bake

Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 18 minutes. They should come out golden with a soft yet sturdy texture. Let them cool completely before moving on to frosting; this prevents the cream cheese topping from melting off.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cookies bake and cool, whip up that dreamy frosting. Beat softened cream cheese and butter in a medium bowl until smooth and combined. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat again until fluffy. Chill the frosting in the fridge until your cookies are ready.

Step 8: Frost and Finish

Once the cookies have cooled, generously spread about a tablespoon of cream cheese frosting on each one. Finish with a small sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for an inviting, aromatic touch. Now, your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are ready to indulge!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Add garnish to these cookies to boost their festive flair and texture. A light dusting of cinnamon or a tiny pinch of nutmeg enhances aroma and visual appeal, while chopped pecans or toasted pumpkin seeds introduce a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy frosting.

Side Dishes

Pair your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting alongside warm drinks like spiced chai tea, cinnamon-infused coffee, or a rich hot chocolate. These companions complement the flavors and make an ideal cozy dessert spread for gatherings or quiet evenings.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board or a fall-themed platter surrounded by autumn leaves or mini pumpkins. Stack a few on a cake stand or plate, and serve with small bowls of extra frosting or cinnamon sugar for dipping. It’s not just a treat; it’s an experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve their softness. If your home is warm, storing them in the fridge is fine but allow them to come back to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough by rolling it into balls and placing them on a tray to harden before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Baked cookies also freeze well in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and frost fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating

To refresh refrigerated or thawed cookies, warm them in a low oven at 300 degrees for about 5 minutes. This brings back that just-baked softness. Avoid microwaving as that can make the frosting too soft or watery.

FAQs

Can I substitute pumpkin puree with canned pumpkin pie filling?

It’s best to use plain pumpkin puree, as the pie filling contains added sugar and spices that can alter the cookie’s flavor and texture. Stick with pure pumpkin for the perfect balance.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Chilling the dough before baking helps it hold its shape better. Also, make sure your baking powder is fresh for the proper rise and structure. Avoid pressing down the dough balls before baking to keep them thick and soft.

Can I make the frosting dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese and vegan margarine. The taste will be slightly different but still delicious.

Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. This will keep the texture and taste close to the original.

What’s the best way to transport these cookies to a party?

Layer cookies in a sturdy container with parchment or wax paper between the layers to prevent sticking. Make sure the container seals well to keep the cookies fresh and prevent the frosting from smudging.

Final Thoughts

Treat yourself to a batch of Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting and experience a little slice of fall magic, no matter the season. They’re surprisingly easy to make, comforting to eat, and perfect to share with friends and family. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly become your go-to recipe whenever you crave a sweet, spiced treat that feels like a warm hug.

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