Description
These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful autumn treat, combining tender, spiced pumpkin-flavored cookies with a rich, creamy frosting. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy afternoons, they deliver a soft texture and balanced sweetness that highlights the warm notes of pumpkin pie spice.
Ingredients
Cookie Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 1/4 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Pumpkin and Egg: Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing and keep the cookies tender.
- Shape Cookies: Using a scoop or spoon, drop the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie for spreading.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes or slightly longer if making larger cookies, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Make Frosting: While cookies cool, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and beat until creamy and fluffy.
- Frost Cookies: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled cookies. Optional: sprinkle with additional pumpkin pie spice or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the cookie dough to maintain a soft texture.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Allow cookies to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
- Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the frosting adds a nice crunch and enhances flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
