the scent of pumpkin spices wafted through my kitchen one crisp autumn morning, instantly transforming the space into a warm, inviting haven. I had a vision of creating something delightful that would capture the essence of fall, and thus, my Soft and Cakey Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting were born. Unlike the usual, crumbly treats, these cookies boast a soft, cakey texture that practically melts in your mouth.
With a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, each cookie is a cozy hug of flavor, while the tangy cream cheese frosting elevates them to next-level deliciousness. Whether for festive gatherings or a simple afternoon treat, these cookies are not just easy to whip up; they’re sure to impress friends and family alike. Grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into the delightful world of pumpkin spice!
Why Love Pumpkin Spice Cookies with a Cream Cheese Frosting?
Comforting Flavor: Each bite is a warm embrace of pumpkin and spices, reminiscent of cozy fall days.
Soft, Cakey Delight: Unlike typical cookies, these treats are tender and fluffy, melting away in your mouth.
Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up easily!
Versatile Treats: Perfect for any occasion, from elegant gatherings to family dinners, they always shine.
Impressive Presentation: Topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious!
Crowd-Pleaser: Friends and family will rave about these cookies, making you the star of the dessert table!
Pumpkin Spice Cookies with a Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
• Your journey to baking magic begins here!
For the Cookies
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for gluten-free, try a gluten-free blend.
- Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise, giving them a soft texture.
- Baking Powder – Ensures fluffiness; always check for freshness before use.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a rich caramel flavor; coconut sugar is a lower glycemic alternative.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; opt for organic for a healthier touch.
- Cinnamon – The key spice for warmth; feel free to add extra for an intense flavor burst.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds a warm, nutty depth; ground ginger can be a good substitute if desired.
- Ground Cloves – Infuses a fragrant spice note; reduce or substitute with allspice if too strong.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – A perfect fall flavor blend; consider making a homemade version for freshness.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances all flavors; pure vanilla is preferred for the best taste.
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; use coconut oil for a dairy-free cookie.
- Pumpkin Purée – Contributes moisture and a distinct flavor; ensure it’s 100% pumpkin.
For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese – The core of the frosting; vegan options are available for dairy-free diets.
- Butter (for frosting) – Adds creaminess and structure; non-dairy butter works too!
- Milk – Thins the frosting for easy spreading; non-dairy milk keeps it all dairy-free.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; powdered erythritol can be used for lower sugar.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cookies with a Cream Cheese Frosting
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Preheat Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly, creating that perfect soft texture. -
Cream Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender cookie. -
Incorporate Wet Ingredients:
Next, add in the pumpkin purée and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth, enveloping your kitchen in a delightful fall aroma. -
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a sticky dough forms, taking care not to overmix. -
Shape the Cookies:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. With wet hands to combat stickiness, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of dough and form into balls. Place them on the baking sheet, flattening them slightly to ensure even puffing. -
Bake Your Cookies:
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until they are soft and delicate. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake; you want them to maintain that cake-like texture. -
Prepare the Frosting:
While cookies are cooling, beat the cream cheese and butter in a medium bowl until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, mixing until fluffy and creamy. -
Frost and Enjoy:
Once cooled completely, frost each cookie generously with the cream cheese frosting and feel free to sprinkle a touch of cinnamon on top for extra flair and flavor.
Optional: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin Spice Cookies with a Cream Cheese Frosting
Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful cookies and explore the flavors that best suit your taste!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously soft texture.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil and vegan cream cheese to make these cookies suitable for a dairy-free lifestyle.
- Nutty Touch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch and a delightful flavor twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising warmth that complements the pumpkin spice beautifully.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the frosted cookies for an indulgent twist that sweetens the deal.
- Flavor Infusion: Swap vanilla extract with maple or almond extract for aromatic variations that bring new life to each cookie.
- Choco-Pumpkin: Mix in chocolate chips to the dough for a rich chocolatey surprise in every bite that pairs perfectly with the spices.
- Frosting Flare: Experiment with different flavored frostings, like maple or cinnamon cream cheese, for a unique finishing touch.
This array of variations allows for creativity and personalization in every batch, ensuring each cookie moment is uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Cookies with a Cream Cheese Frosting?
Indulging in warm, fluffy pumpkin spice cookies is a delight, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate your experience to new heights.
- Creamy Chai Latte: The spiced notes of chai beautifully complement the flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon, creating a cozy, aromatic experience.
- Apple Cider: The sweet and tangy essence of apple cider adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing the warmth of the cookies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts deliciously over the warm cookies, offering a delightful balance of flavors and temperatures.
- Roasted Pecans: Their rich nuttiness and crunchy texture provide a perfect contrast to the soft cookie, enhancing your dessert experience.
- Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The sweet, tart berries paired with rich chocolate mirror the spices in the cookies while adding a fresh burst.
- Homemade Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a rich, frothy hot cocoa topped with whipped cream; it’s a comforting pairing to enjoy on chilly days.
- Cranberry Salad: A tart cranberry salad brings a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the cookies, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- Maple Glazed Doughnuts: For a fun brunch treat, serve these alongside the cookies; their sweetness and maple flavor echo fall vibes perfectly.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft and Cakey Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients, then refrigerating the sticky dough (cover it well to prevent drying out). The cream cheese frosting can also be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours; just give it a quick whip before using to keep it fluffy. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply scoop, bake the cookies, and frost them once they’ve cooled. This way, you can have delicious fall treats on hand with minimal stress!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Cookies with a Cream Cheese Frosting
Fridge: Keep frosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Once fully frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for longer storage.
Dough: Prepare your cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days in an airtight container. This makes it convenient for last-minute baking!
Reheating: Simply microwave cookies for 10–15 seconds to enjoy a warm, soft bite with the iconic pumpkin spice flavors.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Cookies
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Right Texture: Ensure to cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy; this step is essential for achieving soft pumpkin spice cookies.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your cookies while baking. They should remain soft in the center and not overbake for the best texture.
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Chill the Dough: For even easier handling, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before shaping. This helps prevent stickiness.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for smoother frosting. This ensures an easy blending and a creamy finish.
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Watch the Frosting: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the cream cheese frosting, keeping it beautifully intact.
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Quality Spices: Use the freshest spices to enhance flavor; this makes a big difference in your pumpkin spice cookies with a cream cheese frosting!
Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
What kind of pumpkin purée should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely! Make sure to use 100% pure pumpkin purée without any additives. This ensures your cookies have the rich, authentic pumpkin flavor that makes them truly special. You can find this in cans at the grocery store, usually labeled as “pure pumpkin” rather than “pumpkin pie filling,” which contains added sugar and spices.
How should I store the frosted cookies?
Very easy! Place the frosted cookies in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to 5 days. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before stacking them to avoid smudging the frosting.
Can I freeze the dough or the cookies?
Absolutely! For freezing the dough, scoop out the cookie balls and place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just take out the desired number of cookies, let them thaw for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed. For unfrosted baked cookies, you can freeze them too; just follow the same steps as for the dough.
What if my cookies turn out too flat?
If your cookies spread too much, it may be due to your oven temperature being slightly off. I recommend investing in an oven thermometer to ensure accurate readings. Additionally, make sure your butter isn’t too soft; it should be just softened enough to cream without being melty. If you’re still having trouble, slightly chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking—it helps the cookies hold their shape!
Are these cookies suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very much so! These Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can be tailored to accommodate various dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter for the cookies, and vegan cream cheese for the frosting. You can also use gluten-free flour to adapt the recipe for gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to check all your ingredients to confirm they meet your specific dietary needs!
Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Cookies With Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for about 3 minutes.
- Add in the pumpkin purée and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
- Fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a sticky dough forms.
- Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of dough, form into balls, and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for approximately 15 minutes, until soft and delicate.
- Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
- Once cooled, frost each cookie and sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.