These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are the epitome of autumn comfort food. The soft, pumpkin-spiced cookies paired with the creamy, sweet frosting promise a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is perfect for cozy fall afternoons.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are pantry staples, the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice may not be readily available in all homes. Pumpkin puree can usually be found near the canned vegetables in your local grocery store, while pumpkin pie spice is typically found in the spice aisle. If you can't find pumpkin pie spice, you can easily make your own by combining cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
All-purpose flour: This is the base of the cookies, giving them structure and texture.
Baking powder and baking soda: These are the leavening agents that help the cookies rise.
Pumpkin pie spice: This gives the cookies that classic fall flavor.
Butter: This adds richness and moisture to the cookies.
Granulated sugar and brown sugar: These sweeten the cookies and add to their texture.
Pumpkin puree: This adds the pumpkin flavor and moistness to the cookies.
Egg: This binds the ingredients together.
Vanilla extract: This enhances the flavors in the cookies.
Cream cheese: This is the base of the frosting, giving it a creamy, tangy flavor.
Powdered sugar: This sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture.
One reader, Jana Flynn says:
These pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are a game-changer! The cookies are soft and full of pumpkin flavor, and the cream cheese frosting is the perfect sweet and tangy topping. They're a hit with everyone who tries them, and they're now a must-have for all my fall gatherings. Delicious!
Techniques Required for Making Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
How to prepare the pumpkin cookie dough: Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl, cream the butter and sugars, then mix in the pumpkin, egg, and vanilla. Fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
How to bake the pumpkin cookies: Drop the cookie dough onto a lined baking sheet, then flatten them slightly. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until the cookies are cooked through and slightly springy to the touch.
How to make cream cheese frosting: Beat the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla together until smooth, then gradually add in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and well combined.
How to frost the pumpkin cookies: Frost or drizzle the cooled cookies with the cream cheese frosting, and optionally sprinkle with an extra pinch of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon.
How To Make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
With hints of pumpkin pie spice, prepare for the coming Halloween season by making a batch of these pumpkin cookies made with rich cream cheese frosting.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Pumpkin Cookies:
- 2½cupsall-purpose flour
- 1tspbaking powder
- 1tspbaking soda
- 1tbsppumpkin pie spice,plus extra for sprinkling
- ½tspsalt
- ½cupbutter,softened
- 1cupgranulated sugar
- ½cupbrown sugar
- 1¼cupspumpkin puree,canned
- 1egg
- 1tspvanilla extract
For Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8ozlow-fat cream cheese,room temperature
- 3tbspbutter,room temperature
- 1tspvanilla extract
- 2cupspowdered sugar
Instructions
Pumpkin Cookies:
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until combined. Set aside.
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In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed for 1 minute until light and fluffy.
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Add in the pumpkin, egg, and vanilla to butter mixture, and beat on medium-speed until just combined. Fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
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Drop on a cookie sheet, then use fingers or a spoon to flatten them slightly.
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Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cookies are cooked through and bounce back slightly after touching them. Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool until they reach room temperature.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
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With an electric mixer, beat cream cheese, butter, and vanilla together on medium-high speed until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar until it is all combined and the frosting is smooth.
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Then frost or drizzle cookies with cream cheese frosting, and sprinkle with an extra pinch of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon if preferred.
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Serve and enjoy.
Recipe Notes
If frosting is too thick, add in 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk or water until it reaches desired consistency. If it is too thin, add in more powdered sugar until it reaches desired consistency.
Nutrition
- Calories: 136.31kcal
- Fat: 4.72g
- Saturated Fat: 2.87g
- Trans Fat: 0.14g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.22g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.23g
- Carbohydrates: 22.19g
- Fiber: 0.50g
- Sugar: 14.74g
- Protein: 1.68g
- Cholesterol: 17.17mg
- Sodium: 102.09mg
- Calcium: 26.86mg
- Potassium: 49.37mg
- Iron: 0.62mg
- Vitamin A: 107.92µg
- Vitamin C: 0.39mg
Essential Technique Tip for Perfect Pumpkin Cookies
When making the cream cheese frosting, ensure that both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. This will make them easier to mix together and result in a smoother, creamier frosting. If the ingredients are too cold, they may not blend well and could result in a lumpy frosting. Additionally, when adding the powdered sugar, do so gradually while continuously mixing to avoid any clumps. This will also help achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pumpkin Cookies
Prep ahead: Prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up, making it easier to work with.
Use a cookie scoop: Use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto the baking sheet. This will ensure that all the cookies are the same size and will bake evenly.
Double batch: Consider making a double batch of the cookies and freezing the extras. This way, you'll have ready-to-bake cookies on hand for future use.
Bake in batches: If your oven is not large enough to accommodate all the cookies at once, bake them in batches to ensure even cooking.
Chill the frosting: Make the cream cheese frosting ahead of time and chill it in the refrigerator. This will allow it to firm up and be easier to spread on the cookies.
Substitute Ingredients For Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the cookies, making them slightly healthier.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Baking soda and cream of tartar can be used as a substitute for baking powder, providing the necessary leavening agents.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda, but you may need to adjust the quantity.
pumpkin pie spice - Substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: A combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves can replicate the flavors of pumpkin pie spice.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, adding a subtle coconut flavor to the cookies.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a lower glycemic index alternative to granulated sugar, providing a slightly caramel-like flavor.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the cookies, and it also adds moisture.
pumpkin puree - Substitute with butternut squash puree: Butternut squash puree has a similar texture and flavor to pumpkin puree, making it a suitable substitute.
egg - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the cookies, making them softer.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a tangy flavor and creamy texture similar to cream cheese, but with less fat.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be processed into a finer texture to mimic powdered sugar, although it may not dissolve as easily.
How to Beautifully Present Your Pumpkin Cookies
Elevate the plating: When presenting the pumpkin cookies, pay attention to the plating. Use a clean, white plate to create a beautiful contrast with the cookies and the frosting. Arrange the cookies in a circular pattern, and add a dollop of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie for an elegant touch.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg over the cream cheese frosting for a pop of color and added flavor. This delicate touch will enhance the visual appeal and add a layer of sophistication to the presentation.
Incorporate seasonal elements: Integrate seasonal elements into the presentation by adding a small edible flower or a sprig of fresh mint to the plate. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also showcases a connection to the flavors of the season.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the cookies to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate and let the cookies and frosting take center stage, creating a visually appealing and balanced presentation.
Consider texture and height: Experiment with different textures and heights to create visual interest. Place the cookies on a small pedestal or use a decorative napkin to elevate the presentation, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall look.
Attention to detail: Pay attention to the finer details, such as using a small offset spatula to create a smooth finish on the cream cheese frosting. Neatness and precision in the presentation will demonstrate a high level of culinary skill and attention to detail.
Balance flavors and colors: When plating the cookies, consider the balance of flavors and colors. Aim for a harmonious arrangement that showcases the warm tones of the pumpkin cookies and the creamy frosting, creating an inviting and visually appealing presentation.
Personalized touch: Consider adding a personalized touch to the presentation, such as a dusting of edible gold leaf or a drizzle of caramel sauce, to elevate the overall presentation and add a touch of luxury to the dessert.
Essential Tools for Making Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: An essential appliance for baking the cookies at the specified temperature.
- Baking sheet: Used to place the cookie dough for baking and to prevent sticking.
- Parchment paper: Lined on the baking sheet to prevent the cookies from sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Mixing bowl: Used for combining the dry ingredients and mixing the cookie dough.
- Whisk: Used for mixing the dry ingredients together in the mixing bowl.
- Stand mixer: Used to cream the butter and sugars together for the cookie dough.
- Electric mixer: Utilized for making the cream cheese frosting.
- Cookie sheet: Used to drop and flatten the cookie dough before baking.
- Wire rack: Used to cool the baked cookies to room temperature.
- Spoon: Used to drop and flatten the cookie dough on the cookie sheet.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used to measure the precise amounts of ingredients for the recipe.
How To Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Allow the pumpkin cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. If you plan to frost them later, store the cookies and cream cheese frosting separately until ready to serve.
- Storing at room temperature: place the cooled cookies in a single layer in an airtight container, using parchment paper or wax paper to separate layers if needed. Store at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
- Refrigerating: if you've already frosted the cookies with the cream cheese frosting, store them in the refrigerator. Place the frosted cookies in a single layer in an airtight container, using parchment paper or wax paper to separate layers if needed. Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freezing the cookie dough: scoop the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, place the frozen dough balls on a lined baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Freezing baked cookies: allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper or wax paper if needed. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw the cookies at room temperature before serving or frosting.
- Freezing frosted cookies: place the frosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until the frosting is firm (about 2 hours). Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw the frosted cookies in the refrigerator before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Pumpkin Cookies
The best way to reheat leftover pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and the frosting is slightly melted. This method will help restore the texture and flavor of the cookies, making them taste almost as good as freshly baked.
If you're short on time, you can also use the microwave to reheat your leftover pumpkin cookies. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 10-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the cookies, as this can cause the cream cheese frosting to melt and become runny.
For a crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior, try reheating your leftover pumpkin cookies in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the cookies are warmed through and the frosting is slightly melted.
If you want to maintain the integrity of the cream cheese frosting, consider removing it from the cookies before reheating. Use a knife to gently scrape off the frosting, then reheat the cookies using one of the above methods. Once the cookies are warm, you can either re-apply the frosting or serve it on the side for dipping.
For a unique twist, try crumbling your leftover pumpkin cookies and using them as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal. The warmth of the crumbled cookies will slightly melt the cream cheese frosting, creating a delicious and indulgent treat.
Random Fact about Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
The pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting recipe is a delightful treat for autumn gatherings.
Is Making Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting at Home Economical?
This pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the recipe yields a generous batch of cookies. The use of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice adds a seasonal touch without breaking the bank. The cream cheese frosting is a simple yet indulgent addition. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly treat.
Are Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Healthy or Unhealthy?
The pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side. The recipe contains a significant amount of butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar, which are high in calories and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess. Additionally, the all-purpose flour used in the recipe is refined and lacks the beneficial nutrients found in whole grain flours.
However, there are some positive aspects to the recipe. Pumpkin puree is a good source of vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision and immune function. The recipe also uses low-fat cream cheese in the frosting, which reduces the overall fat content compared to regular cream cheese.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
- Reduce the amount of granulated sugar and brown sugar by 1/4 to 1/2 cup each, as the pumpkin puree and cream cheese frosting will still provide plenty of sweetness
- Use Greek yogurt or mashed avocado in place of some of the butter to reduce the saturated fat content and add healthy fats and protein
- Incorporate chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the cookie batter for added protein, healthy fats, and texture
- Experiment with using a sugar substitute, such as stevia or erythritol, in place of some or all of the granulated sugar to reduce the overall sugar content
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Pumpkin Cookie Recipe
The pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting recipe is a delightful autumn treat. The combination of warm spices, creamy pumpkin, and tangy cream cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors. The cookies are soft and moist, and the cream cheese frosting adds a luscious sweetness. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it a great option for both experienced and novice bakers. These cookies are sure to be a hit at any fall gathering or as a special treat for yourself. Enjoy!
Enhance Your Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Pumpkin Cookies
Why trust this Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe:
This recipe for pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting is a delightful treat for any occasion. The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a rich and comforting flavor. The use of cream cheese in the frosting adds a creamy and tangy element that perfectly complements the soft and chewy cookies. With a balance of sweetness and spice, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering. The inclusion of pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract enhances the aromatic profile, making these cookies a standout dessert. Trust in this recipe for a delightful and flavorful experience.
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