Name: Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pumpkin puree; 0.5 cup Granulated sugar; 0.5 cup Brown sugar; 0.5 cup Unsalted butter (softened); 1 large Egg yolk; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 2 cups All-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon Baking powder; 0.25 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon; 0.5 teaspoon Nutmeg; 0.25 teaspoon Cloves; 8 ounces Cream cheese (softened); 0.5 cup Unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups Powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 1 pinch Salt

As autumn's chill settles in, there's something magical about the aroma of warm, spiced treats wafting from the kitchen. My latest obsession? Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, a delightful twist on traditional flavors that you simply must try. These cookies are not only quick to whip up, but they also transform your kitchen into a cozy haven, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Infused with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, they're great for satisfying those sweet cravings without any fast-food guilt! Plus, the luscious cream cheese frosting adds a decadent touch that makes each bite feel like a special occasion. Are you ready to make these scrumptious cookies and let your home be filled with the essence of fall?

Why are these cookies a fall favorite?

Irresistible flavor: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg wraps you in a delightful embrace of autumn warmth.
Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can indulge in these homemade treats without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, everyone will rave about the soft texture and creamy frosting.
Versatile recipe: Enjoy them as-is, or customize with chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist! You'll also want to check out our cream cheese frosting recipe to ensure your cookies are perfectly topped.

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Ingredients

Transform your fall baking with these delightful ingredients!

For the Cookies

Pumpkin puree – adds moisture and a hint of earthy sweetness to the cookies.
Granulated sugar – provides sweetness and helps achieve that perfect crispy edge.
Brown sugar – enhances flavor with a subtle caramel note.
Unsalted butter – ensures you control the salt levels while giving a rich flavor.
Egg yolk – adds richness and helps bind the cookies together.
Vanilla extract – infuses a warm aroma that complements the spices beautifully.
All-purpose flour – the base for your cookies, providing structure.
Baking powder – helps your cookies rise for a light, fluffy texture.
Salt – a pinch enhances all the sweet flavors in this yummy treat.
Ground cinnamon – brings warmth and warmth reminiscent of fall.
Nutmeg – adds a slightly nutty and spicy kick to your cookies.
Cloves – contributes a rich, aromatic depth that rounds out the flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese – offers a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Unsalted butter – ensures a smooth and creamy texture for your frosting.
Powdered sugar – sweetens the frosting and gives it a light texture.
Vanilla extract – adds a hint of warmth that ties everything together.
Pinch of salt – just enough to enhance the creamy frosting with a balanced taste.

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to bake up some warm and inviting Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting that will fill your home with love and delightful aromas!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven is ready to bake your delightful Pumpkin Sugar Cookies when the dough is prepared. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and equipment, including mixing bowls and baking sheets lined with parchment paper, for smooth cookie preparation.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer or a wooden spoon, cream the mixture together until it becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, setting the stage for soft and delicious cookies.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, mix in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to capture all the flavors. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick, letting you know it’s ready to mingle with the dry ingredients to create your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This blend of spices will enchant your taste buds and fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined—this will keep your cookies soft and tender.

Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each scoop to allow for spreading. The dough should be slightly sticky and mound up nicely on the sheets, ready to be baked into golden, pumpkin-flavored delights.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place your baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them—you're looking for lightly golden edges and a soft center. Once they’re ready, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a clean mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The frosting will add a luscious layer of flavor to your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies, balancing sweetness and tanginess perfectly.

Step 8: Finish with Frosting
Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top of each cookie using a knife or an offset spatula. You want each cookie to be beautifully adorned with this creamy topping, creating a decadent finish to your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

The warmth of freshly baked cookies fills the air, creating the perfect backdrop for a delightful meal or gathering.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes create a comforting contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, making a delightful savory-sweet medley.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm glass of spiced apple cider complements the autumn flavors in the cookies and enhances the cozy vibe.
Roasted Vegetable Medley: Seasonal vegetables, like Brussels sprouts and carrots, add a hearty touch to your meal, balancing the sweetness of the sugar cookies beautifully.
Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses and crackers creates a delightful snack, contrasting the cookie's sweetness while providing a satisfying texture.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside the cookies for an indulgent treat; the creaminess pairs well with the spiced flavors, creating a decadent dessert experience.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This classic fall beverage not only enhances the pumpkin essence but also brings a delightful balance to the sweetness of the cookies.

These pairings are designed to elevate your gathering and create a heartwarming experience you'll savor with loved ones.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Fridge: Store the frosted Pumpkin Sugar Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and preserves the delicious cream cheese frosting.

Freezer: Freeze the unfrosted cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cookies in the fridge overnight, then add the cream cheese frosting just before serving for the best taste and texture.

Room Temperature: If you prefer to store them at room temperature, keep the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but this is best for un-frosted ones.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients and then chilling the dough in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, shape the dough into balls before chilling, so you can easily bake them when ready. The cookies themselves can be baked in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days–just ensure they cool completely first to maintain that soft texture. Frost them just before serving for the best results; this keeps the cream cheese frosting fresh and delicious, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats anytime with minimal effort.

Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own with these fun variations!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for deliciously soft cookies. Easy and accommodating for those avoiding gluten!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil and a non-dairy cream cheese for a dairy-free version that still packs a delightful flavor. You won’t even miss the dairy!
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for an extra kick of warmth and spice that embodies the heart of fall. Your senses will absolutely love this twist!
Nutty Addition: Stir in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch and a delightful nutty flavor. This will elevate your cookies, giving them a unique texture that everyone will enjoy.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful chocolaty contrast to the pumpkin flavor. It’s a dessert dream come true!
Frosting Alternatives: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a simple vanilla or chocolate buttercream for a sweeter touch. Both will create a delightful pairing with the pumpkin cookies!
Candied Ginger: Incorporate ¼ cup of finely chopped candied ginger into the batter for a surprising zing that complements the spices beautifully. This addition adds an international flair that will wow your taste buds!
Pumpkin Spice Latte Flavor: Stir in 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder for a subtle coffee flavor that pairs fantastically with pumpkin. It’s like sipping your favorite cozy drink in cookie form!

Play around with these variations, and enhance your baking experience! Don't forget to check out our frosting recipe to find the perfect topping for your delicious creations!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

• Cool Properly: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and losing its lovely texture.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft and chewy Pumpkin Sugar Cookies you desire.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for the flour and sugars. Accurate measurements ensure the right texture and flavor in your cookies.

• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help prevent excessive spreading during baking.

• Store Wisely: Keep the frosted cookies in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain moisture and keep the cream cheese frosting fresh.

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for pure pumpkin puree, which you can find in cans at your grocery store. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as that contains added sugars and spices that can alter the cookie flavor.

How should I store my cookies?
Very! Store the frosted Pumpkin Sugar Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures they remain fresh and the cream cheese frosting keeps its delightful texture. If you’re keeping them un-frosted, they can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Definitely! To freeze the unfrosted cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost just before serving for that fresh-baked taste.

What if my cookies turn out too flat?
Don’t worry, it happens! If your cookies spread too much while baking, check if your butter was too soft or melted at the start. You can also chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking, which helps maintain their shape. Make sure to measure your flour accurately—too little will lead to flat cookies.

Are these cookies safe for pets?
Not at all! While the ingredients are generally safe for us, they contain sugar and spices that may upset your pet’s stomach. It’s best to keep these delicious Pumpkin Sugar Cookies out of reach of your furry friends!

Can I use other spices or add-ins?
Of course! If you’re looking for a twist, feel free to substitute some spices, like using allspice or ginger. You can also mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried cranberries for a delightful surprise. The more, the merrier!