As the autumn season approaches, pumpkin-flavored treats dominate kitchens everywhere, marking a true celebration of fall. From pumpkin pies to lattes, the versatility of this ingredient in desserts is undeniable. Among these beloved options, pumpkin cookies have emerged as a comforting favorite. These soft, spiced cookies encapsulate the warmth of autumn in every bite. The addition of a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting elevates them from simple cookies to an indulgent treat, offering the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Why Pumpkin Cookies are Special
What sets pumpkin cookies apart is the key ingredient: pumpkin puree. The puree not only infuses the cookies with a rich, natural flavor but also keeps them moist and tender. Unlike traditional cookies, which can be crisp or chewy, pumpkin cookies tend to have a soft, cake-like texture. The spices commonly paired with pumpkin—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—enhance the overall flavor profile, making each bite a cozy, spiced delight. Thanks to their unique texture and autumnal taste, these cookies stand out as a must-bake seasonal treat.
Overview of Cream Cheese Frosting
To complement the warmth of the spiced pumpkin cookie, the cream cheese frosting adds a delicious contrast. The frosting’s smooth, creamy consistency coats the cookies perfectly, while the tang of cream cheese offsets the sweetness of the cookie, creating a balanced flavor. This pairing of pumpkin spice and tangy richness makes for a deliciously irresistible dessert that feels like the essence of fall in every bite.
Ingredients and Tools
Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Cookies
- Pumpkin Puree
When making pumpkin cookies, it’s essential to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor and texture of your cookies. Pure pumpkin puree gives the cookies their rich, natural pumpkin flavor and helps to retain moisture, creating a soft, tender texture. - Flour
All-purpose flour works best for these cookies, providing enough structure while keeping the texture light and cakey. It gives the cookies the right balance of firmness and softness. - Spices
The spices are what give pumpkin cookies their signature fall flavor. A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves brings warmth and depth. Cinnamon is the star, while nutmeg and ginger add a slightly spicy undertone, and cloves contribute a hint of earthiness. - Butter
Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt levels in the recipe. Butter helps to create a tender crumb while adding richness to the cookies. - Sugar
The combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar provides a balance of sweetness and moisture. Brown sugar adds a slight molasses flavor and helps make the cookies soft, while granulated sugar ensures they are sweet without being overly moist.
Key Ingredients for Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese
Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture and flavor. Reduced-fat versions may result in a runnier frosting, while full-fat cream cheese ensures a creamy, rich consistency. - Butter
Butter helps to smooth out the cream cheese and adds richness to the frosting. It also contributes to the frosting’s spreadability. - Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens the frosting and helps achieve the desired smooth, spreadable consistency. Sifting it beforehand ensures a lump-free frosting. - Vanilla Extract
A splash of vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the frosting, adding a subtle sweetness and depth to complement the cream cheese and pumpkin.
Essential Baking Tools
- Mixing Bowls
Use different-sized mixing bowls for combining dry and wet ingredients separately. This helps to ensure that ingredients are well-incorporated without clumping. - Electric Mixer
An electric mixer (hand or stand) is vital for creaming the butter and sugars to achieve a light, fluffy texture. It also makes frosting preparation easier. - Cookie Sheet and Parchment Paper
Using a lined cookie sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier, ensuring evenly baked cookies. - Cooling Rack
A cooling rack is essential for cooling cookies properly. Allowing air to circulate around the cookies prevents sogginess and ensures they cool evenly.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cookies
Prepping the Ingredients
Before starting, it’s important to prep all your ingredients to make the process smooth and efficient:
- Sift the flour to remove any lumps, ensuring a consistent texture in the cookies.
- Measure the pumpkin puree carefully, as too much liquid can make the cookies too soft.
- Soften the butter to room temperature, making it easier to cream with sugar for a light, fluffy texture.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
- Flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves).
This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough, giving the cookies a consistent flavor.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy using an electric mixer. This step incorporates air into the butter, giving the cookies their soft texture.
- Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Then, fold in the pumpkin puree. The batter will become creamy, and the pumpkin will add moisture to the dough.
Incorporating Dry into Wet
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in small batches. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can result in dense cookies. The goal is to incorporate the flour just enough without losing the light, airy texture of the batter.
Shaping and Baking the Cookies
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even baking.
- Bake the cookies at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly puffed.
- Avoid overbaking, as pumpkin cookies are meant to be soft and tender.
Cooling the Cookies
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps the cookies set without overcooking on the hot baking sheet.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
Prepping the Ingredients
To ensure a smooth frosting, start by softening the cream cheese and butter at room temperature.
- Sift the powdered sugar to remove any lumps before adding it to the mixture.
Mixing the Frosting
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar in small increments, mixing well after each addition. This method helps achieve a smooth, creamy consistency while avoiding any graininess in the frosting. Continue to mix until the frosting reaches the desired sweetness and thickness.
Frosting the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled completely, use a spatula or a piping bag to frost them.
- Spread or pipe an even layer of frosting on top of each cookie. The smooth, creamy texture should complement the softness of the cookie base, creating a balanced bite.
Optional Toppings
For an extra layer of flavor and decoration, consider adding optional toppings:
- A light dusting of cinnamon enhances the spice profile.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts add a bit of crunch to contrast the softness of the cookies.
- A drizzle of caramel sauce provides an indulgent, sweet finish that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese frosting.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storing the Cookies
Pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are best stored in the refrigerator due to the dairy-based frosting.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness and texture.
- If you want to freeze the cookies, it’s best to do so without the frosting. Once the cookies are fully cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cookies at room temperature and frost them freshly.
Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Cookies
Pumpkin cookies pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa on a chilly autumn day.
- They also make an excellent addition to a fall party dessert table, whether it’s for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or a cozy family gathering.
- For a festive touch, consider arranging them on a platter with other fall-inspired treats, or wrap them up as homemade gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Pumpkin Cookies
How to Avoid Overmixing the Dough
Overmixing the dough can lead to tough, dense cookies. To avoid this, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Mix just until the flour disappears, being careful not to overwork the dough.
Tips for Adjusting Spices
If you prefer more or less spice, adjust the spice blend to suit your taste. For example, you can add more cinnamon for extra warmth or reduce the cloves for a milder flavor.
Achieving the Right Frosting Consistency
If your frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar in small increments until it thickens. If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or cream to loosen it up.
Preventing Soggy Cookies
To avoid overly moist cookies, make sure to use pure pumpkin puree without excess liquid. If your pumpkin puree is watery, strain it through a mesh sieve to remove the excess moisture before adding it to the batter. If necessary, add a little extra flour to the dough to achieve the right consistency.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I make these cookies without cream cheese frosting?
Yes, these cookies are delicious even without the frosting. The spices and pumpkin create a flavorful base, but the cream cheese frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness and tang that enhances the overall flavor.
Can I freeze pumpkin cookies?
Yes, pumpkin cookies freeze well. However, it’s best to freeze them without the frosting. Once thawed, you can add the cream cheese frosting freshly before serving. To freeze, place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure and to help bind the cookies.
How do I keep my frosting from being too runny?
Ensure that both the cream cheese and butter are at the right temperature—soft but not too warm. Gradually add powdered sugar until the frosting thickens to your desired consistency.
Can I substitute the pumpkin puree with something else?
Yes, you can substitute pumpkin puree with sweet potato or butternut squash puree. The flavor will change slightly but still be delicious.
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Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Description
These soft and spiced pumpkin cookies are the ultimate fall treat, combining the earthy sweetness of pumpkin puree with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Their cakey texture makes them light and tender, offering a perfect bite every time. Topped with a tangy, rich cream cheese frosting, these cookies strike a beautiful balance between sweet and savory, making them a favorite for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home. They’re simple to make and can easily be customized with toppings like chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel for extra flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups (312 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice, plus extra for sprinkling
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100 g) packed light brown sugar
- 1 ¼ cups (305 g) canned pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces (1 brick or 226 g ) block-style cream cheese, softened but still cool
- ¼ cup (56 g) unsalted butter, softened but still cool
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups (210 g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
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Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside.
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In the bowl of stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat butter, sugar and brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add pumpkin purée, egg and vanilla, and mix until combined. Scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl if necessary. Add flour mixture to wet ingredients and mix just until combined. The dough will be a little sticky and soft.
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Use a medium cookie scoop (or a spoon), to scoop a heaping tablespoon of dough and place it on prepared baking sheet. Space cookies about 2 inches apart.
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Bake cookies at 350° F for 13 to 15 minutes or until the edges are set and the cookies are soft and fluffy. Let the cookies cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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For the cream cheese frosting, beat cream cheese and butter together on medium-high speed until smooth, about 30 seconds. Add vanilla and confectioners’ sugar and mix again just until combined, about 30 more seconds.
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Use an off-set spatula or a knife to frost cooled pumpkin cookies. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and serve.
Notes
- Pumpkin Puree: Be sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pie filling contains added sugars and spices that can throw off the flavor and texture of the cookies.
- Moisture in Pumpkin Puree: If your pumpkin puree seems watery, strain it slightly with a cheesecloth or fine sieve. Excess moisture can make the dough too wet, resulting in soggy cookies.
- Spice Adjustments: The spice blend in this recipe is a classic mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Feel free to adjust the quantities to match your personal taste. For a spicier kick, you can add a little extra cinnamon or ginger.
- Frosting Consistency: The cream cheese frosting should be thick but spreadable. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar; if it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
- Making Ahead and Freezing: These cookies freeze exceptionally well. Bake the cookies and let them cool completely before freezing. It’s best to freeze them unfrosted and add the cream cheese frosting once they’re thawed and ready to serve.
- Serving Suggestions: These cookies are perfect for fall events like Halloween parties, Thanksgiving, or any autumn-themed celebration. Serve them with hot coffee, tea, or a spiced apple cider for a comforting treat.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make the cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This will help maintain the soft, cakey structure of the cookies.
- Vegan Alternative: You can make these cookies vegan by using vegan butter, a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and replacing the eggs with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon of ground flax/chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg).