As I sink my teeth into a warm, spiced cookie, I can’t help but feel a wave of autumn nostalgia wash over me. These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting embody the cozy essence of fall with every delightful bite. Not only are they quick to whip up for your next family gathering, but their soft texture combined with that luscious cream cheese frosting makes for an irresistible sweet treat. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can tweak the spice level or try different frosting options to make them your own. So, are you ready to fill your kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of pumpkin and spice this season?
Why Are Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Irresistible?
Irresistible Flavor: The delightful harmony of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that’s perfect for fall.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip these cookies up in no time!
Family Favorite: These cookies will quickly become a beloved treat for family gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with frosting types or spice levels, allowing you to customize each batch to your liking. If you enjoy cookies, you may also love these Blueberry Breakfast Cookies for a quick, delicious snack.
Perfect Pairing: Enjoy these cookies with coffee or tea, making them an ideal treat for any occasion.
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to embrace fall!
For the Cookies
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Baking Powder – Allows the cookies to rise, ensuring a soft texture.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses that warm fall flavor; you can make your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Canned Pumpkin Puree – Moisture and pumpkin flavor are key; fresh pumpkin can be used too, though it needs extra prep.
- Melted Butter – Adds richness; swap for coconut oil to make it dairy-free.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; brown sugar gives a deeper flavor.
- Egg – Binds all ingredients together; consider a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; only omit if necessary.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Creates a smooth, rich frosting; vegan cream cheese works great as a substitute.
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and thickens the frosting; alternative sweeteners can be used.
Now that you have the ingredients for these delicious Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, let’s turn those ingredients into a memorable autumn treat!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies will bake evenly and achieve that delightful golden edge. While the oven heats up, gather your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial as it creates the base for the soft texture of your cookies.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring gently until a cohesive dough forms. Make sure not to overmix; you want the dough to be thick yet pliable for your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for about 25 minutes. Chilling is essential as it helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, leading to a soft, thick texture. This step also enhances the flavors, allowing the spices and pumpkin to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Once chilled, use a tablespoon to scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls, about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons each. Place these balls on the prepared parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between them since they will spread slightly during baking. The dough should be a lovely orange hue, reflecting its pumpkin content.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Carefully slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 18 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn a light golden brown while the centers remain soft. This is the perfect moment to take them out, as they will continue to firm up while cooling on the sheet.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process is vital as it prepares the cookies for the luscious cream cheese frosting that will elevate their flavor.
Step 8: Make the Frosting
In a clean bowl, whip together cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting reaches a creamy consistency. Keep this frosting chilled until your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies have completely cooled to avoid any runniness.
Step 9: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are cool, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. For an added touch, sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top before serving. The creamy frosting complements the spiced cookies perfectly, making each bite a true autumn delight.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
As the scent of warm spices envelops your kitchen, let’s create a complete fall celebration around these delightful cookies.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery flavor of mashed potatoes brings a comforting heartiness, balancing the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
-
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced cider with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg adds an aromatic drink that perfectly complements the cookies’ flavors.
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy texture and slight bitterness provide a delightful contrast to the sweet cream cheese frosting while embracing fall’s bountiful harvest.
-
Pumpkin Soup: A velvety pumpkin soup adds a smooth, savory note that enhances the cookie’s pumpkin flavors, creating a festive harmony.
-
Caramelized Pecans: These crunchy nuts drizzled with caramel bring a sweet, nutty contrast that feels luxurious alongside the cookies.
-
Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: A scoop of chocolate chip ice cream drizzled with caramel sauce brings a play of temperature and creaminess that takes your sweet treat experience to the next level.
-
Cinnamon Tea: Sipping warm cinnamon tea while enjoying your cookies will amplify those fall spices, providing a cozy warmth to each moment.
-
Pecan Pie Bars: The rich, gooey texture of pecan pie bars introduces a new element of indulgence that pairs delightfully with your moist cookies.
-
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Your own delicious pumpkin spice latte will echo the flavors of the cookies, keeping the cozy vibe going strong.
Indulging in these pairings will certainly create a warm and festive atmosphere perfect for sharing with loved ones!
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies
Fridge: Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps the cream cheese frosting fresh and maintains the soft texture of the cookies.
Freezer: Freeze the Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting or serving.
Reheating: If desired, gently reheat cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back their soft, warm goodness. Avoid overheating to prevent the frosting from melting.
Tips for Frosting Storage: Keep any extra cream cheese frosting in the fridge for up to 1 week. Stir well before using, and feel free to spread it on fresh cookies as a delightful treat!
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Variations
Let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful cookies with exciting twists and substitutions!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy delicious cookies without the gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of melted butter and a vegan cream cheese for the frosting. They’ll still taste divine!
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the spices.
- Alternate Frosting: Try a simple vanilla glaze or a chocolate frosting for a sweet twist that will surprise your taste buds.
- Spice It Up: Increase the pumpkin pie spice or add a pinch of cayenne for a delightful kick that warms with every bite.
- Sugar Swap: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a rich, deep flavor that enhances the fall vibes wonderfully.
- Pumpkin Bliss: Fold in chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for an indulgent addition that makes these cookies irresistible.
- Layered Cookies: Create a sandwich version by spreading frosting between two cookies; it adds an extra touch of heaven!
These variations allow you to personalize your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, making them truly special for your family gatherings. For more delightful recipes, don’t miss checking out this wonderfully cozy Joumou Haitian Pumpkin Soup or savoring the sweetness of Savory Brown Sugar Pork Chops. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them fresh with minimal effort on busy days! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and chilling it in the refrigerator. This chilling not only helps the flavors meld but also ensures the cookies maintain their delightful texture. Just before baking, scoop and roll the dough into balls, place them on parchment-lined baking sheets, and bake as directed. For the cream cheese frosting, you can make it ahead and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before frosting the cookies to ensure it’s spreadable. Enjoy the convenience of these cookies while still savoring their homemade warmth!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Allowing your dough to chill for at least 25 minutes is crucial. It prevents spreading, resulting in perfectly thick Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to avoid sticking and make cleanup a breeze, ensuring every cookie comes out intact.
- Frost When Cool: Always wait for your cookies to cool completely before frosting them. This avoids runny cream cheese frosting, giving you beautiful, finished treats.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to tweak the amount of pumpkin pie spice to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to add a bit more for a bolder flavor profile!
- Variations Galore: Explore different frosting options such as a vanilla glaze or chocolate ganache, enhancing your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with a new twist.
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin for your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, look for canned pumpkin puree—not pumpkin pie filling, as that contains added sugar and spices. If you prefer using fresh pumpkin, select a sugar pumpkin, also known as a pie pumpkin. These are smaller, sweeter, and have a smoother texture, which will enhance the flavor of your cookies.
How should I store my cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies delicious and soft, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. This helps preserve the cream cheese frosting as well as the cookie’s chewy texture. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I freeze these Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If you want a warm cookie, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies spread too much during baking, it might be due to the dough not being chilled long enough or the oven being too hot. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 25 minutes and check the oven temperature with an oven thermometer. Another tip is to keep the dough balls somewhat taller rather than wider on the baking sheet, which can help them hold their shape better.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Certainly! If you’re making these cookies for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adjust the recipe. Substitute the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version, use a flax egg in place of a regular egg for vegan options, and swap the cream cheese for vegan cream cheese alternatives in the frosting. Just be sure to choose alternative sweeteners if any prefers to avoid sugar.
How long will the cream cheese frosting last once made?
The cream cheese frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure it’s in a tightly sealed container. Before using, let it come to room temperature and mix it well, as it may firm up while chilled. It’s perfect for spreading on fresh cookies or even as a dip for fruits!
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for about 25 minutes.
- Scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for approximately 18 minutes until edges are golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- In a bowl, whip together cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting on cooled cookies and sprinkle with pumpkin pie spice if desired.