Why Make This Recipe
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a comforting treat perfect for any occasion. The warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor create a delightful cookie that melts in your mouth. The cream cheese frosting adds a sweet and tangy finish that takes these cookies to the next level. Whether for a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday celebration, these cookies are sure to impress.
How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream), for desired consistency
Directions:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl (or stand mixer), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
- Add Pumpkin Puree, Egg, and Vanilla: Beat in the pumpkin puree until well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours).
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Scoop and Shape the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set.
- Cool the Cookies: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese (Frosting): In a large bowl (or stand mixer), cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually Add Powdered Sugar (Frosting): Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined.
- Add Vanilla Extract and Milk (Frosting): Beat in the vanilla extract. Then, add milk (or heavy cream) one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
- Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them with the cream cheese frosting.
- Optional Decorations: If desired, decorate the frosted cookies with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the frosted cookies immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies
These soft pumpkin cookies are perfect for sharing. Place them on a festive plate and serve them at parties, family gatherings, or holiday events. They make a lovely addition to coffee or tea time as well. Enjoy them fresh or keep them covered to savor later!
How to Store Soft Pumpkin Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies without frosting in a single layer. Once frozen, place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months. Frost them when you’re ready to serve!
Tips to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies
- Chilling the Dough: Chilling the dough helps the cookies retain their shape and enhances the flavors.
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture.
- Measuring Flour: Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off. This prevents the cookies from being too dense.
- Cream Cheese Frosting Consistency: Adjust the milk quantity to achieve your preferred frosting consistency.
Variation
For a twist, try adding chocolate chips or nuts into the cookie batter before baking. You could also opt for a spiced cream cheese frosting by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the frosting.
FAQs
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, it’s best to use pure pumpkin puree for this recipe as pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar, which can alter the flavor and texture.
How can I make these cookies healthier?
You can swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly for a healthier option.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese frosting a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and give it a good stir before using.
