Name: Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (100% pure pumpkin puree); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (can reduce to 2/3 cup if less sweetness is preferred); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar; 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 large Egg Yolk (or 1 tablespoon of applesauce for a vegan version); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves; 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened); 1/4 cup Butter (softened); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (adjust based on taste preference); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract ((for frosting)); 1 pinch Salt ((for frosting))

As I stood in my cozy kitchen, the unmistakable aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the air, immediately transporting me to crisp autumn days. These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are my go-to recipe when I crave a delightful treat that perfectly captures the spirit of fall. Soft and chewy, these cookies combine the classic sweetness of sugar cookies with the rich, spiced goodness of pumpkin, topped off with a creamy frosting that brings everything together in blissful harmony. One of the best perks? They come together in just about 30 minutes and are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re preparing for a festive holiday or just looking for a cozy dessert to share, these cookies are destined to make your taste buds dance. Curious about how you can whip up a batch of these delightful cookies? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Pumpkin Cookies So Irresistible?

Warm, Inviting Aroma: The moment you take these cookies out of the oven, the sweet scent of pumpkin and spices fills your home, making it feel like autumn has arrived.

Soft and Chewy: Each cookie has a delightful texture that’s both soft and chewy, perfectly blending that traditional sugar cookie goodness with the cozy essence of pumpkin.

Creamy Frosting: Topping them off is a rich cream cheese frosting that adds a tangy sweetness, creating a heavenly contrast that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Quick and Easy: You can whip up these delicious cookies in around 30 minutes, making them a perfect option for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday parties, cozy evenings, or potlucks, these cookies are bound to impress friends and family alike.

For more delightful fall treats, check out my Chocolate Zucchini Cream or my Cajun Chicken Pasta recipes!

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

For the Cookies

Pumpkin Puree – Use 100% pure pumpkin puree to bring moisture and flavor; avoid pumpkin pie filling for best results.
Granulated Sugar – This sweetens the cookies and helps achieve that tender texture; you can reduce it to 2/3 cup if you prefer less sweetness.
Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor with subtle molasses notes, enhancing the cookie’s richness.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness and ensures your cookies stay soft; it’s essential for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
Egg Yolk – Provides structure while keeping the cookies tender; substitute with 1 tablespoon of applesauce for a vegan version.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile to make your cookies extra delicious.
All-Purpose Flour – The base of your dough, giving the cookies their charming shape.
Baking Powder – Aids in rising slightly and keeps the cookies delightfully soft.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor of the cookies.
Ground Cinnamon – Imbues the cookies with a classic fall aroma that will tempt anyone nearby.
Nutmeg and Cloves – These spices deepen the flavor profile, perfectly complementing the pumpkin.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – Adds a rich, tangy element to your frosting, making it irresistibly luscious.
Butter (for frosting) – Ensures a smooth and spreadable texture, blending beautifully with the cream cheese.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve that fluffy texture; adjust based on your taste preference.
Vanilla Extract (for frosting) – Balances and rounds out the flavors in the frosting, making each bite a treat.
Pinch of Salt (for frosting) – Enhances sweetness and elevates the overall flavor.

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not just a recipe; they are a warm embrace of fall, every bite bringing joy and comfort. Let’s get baking!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), creating the perfect environment for baking. This ensures your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies will rise beautifully and develop a delightful golden edge. While the oven warms, gather your ingredients and prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for an easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This blend of dry ingredients adds structure and flavor to your cookies. Look for a uniform combination without any lumps, as this will ensure even baking of your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies. Set the mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter alongside granulated sugar and brown sugar until the texture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step. The blend should turn pale and creamy, which will create that tender texture in your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, add in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to your creamed butter and sugars. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined and smooth, about 1-2 minutes. The mixture should be thick and creamy, with the beautiful orange color of pumpkin blending throughout, creating the base for your cookies.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the bowl of dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Use a spatula or the mixer on low speed to incorporate everything without over-mixing, as this keeps your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies tender. The dough should come together and be slightly sticky, inviting that warm, spiced aroma to fill your kitchen.

Step 6: Scoop Cookies
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading. Aim for uniform sizes for even baking, and don’t worry if they look a bit rustic; they’ll charm with their handmade appearance!

Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set. You’ll know they are done when you see the cookies puff up slightly; resist the urge to over-bake for that soft, chewy texture.

Step 8: Cool
Once baked, remove the sheet from the oven and let the Cookies sit for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack. The transition is crucial; leaving them too long on the sheet can make them overly soft, while a cooling rack gives them that perfect finish.

Step 9: Frost
After your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies have completely cooled on the wire rack, it’s time for the fun part: frosting! In a mixing bowl, prepare your cream cheese frosting and spread a generous amount on each cookie. The creamy frosting will complement the warm spices perfectly, making each bite utterly irresistible.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

As the sweet aroma of these cookies wafts through your home, it’s time to think about the perfect accompaniments to truly elevate your cookie experience.

Spiced Chai Latte: A warm cup of spiced chai complements the pumpkin and cream cheese perfectly, enhancing the cozy vibes of fall.
Apple Crisp: The sweet, tangy flavors of apple crisp paired with those soft cookies create a delightful contrast that will please your palate.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy soup adds a savory balance, making for a comforting, seasonal meal that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cookies.
Cranberry Orange Salad: A refreshing salad with a burst of citrus and tart cranberries brightens your plate, providing a flavorful kick alongside the cookies.
Mulled Wine: Sip on this warm, spiced drink, perfectly capturing the essence of the season and making for a delightful pairing at any gathering.
Walnut Brownies: Rich, fudgy brownies offset the lightness of the cookies, creating a decadent dessert spread that’s sure to impress.

Imagine gathering around a table, sharing stories as the sweet treats enhance the joy of togetherness. Your experience will be cherished long after the last cookie is gone!

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Variations

Feel free to let your imagination run wild and customize these delightful cookies to suit your tastes!

Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive treats.
Vegan: Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter to make this recipe plant-based, maintaining deliciousness without the animal products. You can even replace the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of applesauce.
Extra Spices: Add a teaspoon of allspice or cardamom to the dough for an unexpected flavor twist that enriches the autumnal experience. These subtle differences can surprise your taste buds!
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the frosted cookies to create a delightful contrast of flavors—a sweet indulgence that chocolate lovers will appreciate.
Nuts or Seeds: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pumpkin seeds into the cookie dough for added crunch and richness. This elevates the texture and adds a nutritious touch.
Seasonal Sprinkles: Top your cream cheese frosting with festive sprinkles for a fun and colorful finish, perfect for holiday gatherings or kid-friendly treats. This little touch has a big visual appeal!
Coconut Flavor: Substitute some of the granulated sugar with coconut sugar and add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical twist on your pumpkin cookies.

For more scrumptious inspiration, you might want to explore my Almond Flour Cake Recipe Without Eggs that is also gluten-free, or indulge in my creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for a delightful change of pace.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply chill the dough in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent spreading. The cookies can also be baked ahead and stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature—just make sure they cool completely first to maintain their soft, chewy texture. When you’re ready to serve, frost the cookies with the cream cheese frosting, which can be made up to 3 days ahead as well, stored in the fridge. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting at a moment’s notice!

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

• Use Pure Pumpkin: Always opt for 100% pure pumpkin puree for rich flavor and moisture; canned pumpkin pie filling won’t yield the same results.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to maintain a soft, chewy texture in your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky, chill it for 20-30 minutes; this will make it easier to scoop and shape without losing texture during baking.

• Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; they’re done when the edges are golden and the centers look set to avoid overbaking.

• Frost when Cool: Make sure the cookies are completely cool before frosting; this will prevent the frosting from melting and losing its creamy texture.

• Store Properly: To keep your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and enjoy them within a week!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, keep your cookies in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure they’re in a sealed container to avoid drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies for up to 2 months. Flash freeze them first (without frosting) on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container.

Reheating: Thaw frozen cookies overnight in the fridge; frost them after thawing for the best taste and texture. Enjoy that soft, chewy goodness anytime!

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, always opt for 100% pure pumpkin puree. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it’s often sweetened and spiced, which can throw off the balance in your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies. When picking a can, look for a rich, deep orange color which indicates high-quality pumpkin.

What is the best way to store Pumpkin Sugar Cookies?
You can keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to avoid moisture buildup. If you want them to last longer, try refrigerating them in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks, or freezing them for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies! The best method is to flash freeze them first. Place the cookies (without frosting) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 1 hour until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and frost them afterward to keep the creamy texture intact!

What if my dough is too sticky?
Very! If your cookie dough seems overly sticky, don’t worry; it’s quite common. Chill the dough in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to scoop and shape without losing that tender, chewiness your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are known for.

Are there any dietary considerations?
Yes, you can easily make these cookies suitable for various dietary needs! To prepare a vegan version, simply replace the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of applesauce, and use plant-based butter and cream cheese for the frosting. Always check for allergens when serving to others, especially if there are known dietary restrictions among your friends and family.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the frosting?
Absolutely! The sweetness of the cream cheese frosting can be adjusted according to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet frosting, start with 1 cup of powdered sugar and gradually add more until you reach your desired level of sweetness. It’s a great way to customize your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting to fit your taste!