Indulging in a plate of Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting is like giving your taste buds a warm, cozy hug. The moment you take a bite, the delightful flavors of pumpkin and spices dance together on your tongue, while the cream cheese frosting adds that perfect creamy sweetness to elevate each cookie to a whole new level of yumminess.
Picture this: autumn leaves crunching underfoot, the smell of cinnamon wafting through the air, and you’re snuggled up with a warm cookie in hand. This recipe is not just about food; it’s about creating memories that make you smile. Whether it’s for Halloween treats or Thanksgiving gatherings, these cookies are destined to be the star of your dessert table. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will have you baking batch after batch!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Soft Pumpkin Cookies are easy to make and require minimal effort for maximum flavor
- The combination of pumpkin and spices creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen
- Their vibrant orange hue makes them visually appealing, perfect for any fall gathering
- Versatile enough for any occasion, they can be enjoyed as snacks or desserts!
Ingredients for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling for the best flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your cookies; sifted flour ensures lightness.
- Brown Sugar: Provides moisture and that rich caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
- Granulated Sugar: Balances the flavors and adds sweetness to the cookies.
- Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and gives them that soft texture we love.
- Cinnamon: A must-have spice that adds warmth and depth to the cookies.
- Nutmeg: Just a pinch enhances the festive flavor profile; it’s like autumn in cookie form!
- Cream Cheese: The star ingredient for frosting; its tanginess complements the sweetness perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper so those cookies don’t stick like gum on your shoe!
Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. You want everything nicely blended without any floury lumps hanging around.
Step 3: Cream Together Sugars and Pumpkin
In another bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, and pumpkin puree. Using an electric mixer on medium speed makes this step a breeze. Beat until fluffy—trust me, it should look like a beautiful orange cloud by now!
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add in melted butter and vanilla extract into your mixture. Continue beating just until everything is combined; let’s keep those calories at bay by not over-mixing!
Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Gently fold until everything is just combined—this is where you get those heavenly soft cookies!
Step 6: Bake Them Up
Scoop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto your prepared baking sheets about two inches apart (you don’t want cookie buddies!). Bake for about 12-15 minutes until they’re set but still soft in the center. Let them cool on a wire rack.
Step 7: Frost Away
While your cookies cool down, whip up that cream cheese frosting! Blend softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Once cooled completely, frost those adorable little pumpkins generously.
Transfer to plates and enjoy these delightful treats with family or friends—they’re bound to become everyone’s favorite!
You Must Know
- Soft pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting bring autumn’s cozy flavors to your kitchen
- The delightful combination of spices and sweetness elevates dessert time, making them an instant favorite
- Perfect for gatherings or a simple treat at home, these cookies are pure joy in every bite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To whip up soft pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting efficiently, start by mixing the wet ingredients first. While they blend, combine the dry ingredients separately. This way, you avoid clumps and ensure even flavor throughout your cookies.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your soft pumpkin cookies! Swap out regular sugar for brown sugar for a deeper flavor or add chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. You can also sprinkle in some nuts for a delightful crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover soft pumpkin cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For reheating, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to restore that fresh-baked goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect texture, ensure your butter is softened but not melted when mixing
- Don’t overmix the cookie batter; it should be just combined for tender cookies
- Lastly, allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting
Sometimes I think my friends love my soft pumpkin cookies more than they love me! I once baked a batch for a gathering, and they disappeared faster than you could say “pumpkin spice latte.”
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?
To make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you will need all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and cream cheese. Gather these ingredients to create a deliciously soft cookie topped with a rich and creamy frosting. Using high-quality pumpkin puree enhances the flavor and texture of the cookies. Ensure you have the right measurements for the best results.
How long do Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting last?
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting can last up to a week when stored properly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness. If you want to prolong their shelf life, consider refrigerating them; they can stay fresh for up to ten days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze the cookies without frosting for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature and frost before serving.
Can I substitute ingredients in Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Yes, you can substitute some ingredients in Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. For instance, if you want a gluten-free option, use a 1: 1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. You may also replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey for a healthier alternative. Additionally, if you prefer a dairy-free option, use vegan cream cheese for the frosting. Just be aware that substitutions may alter the taste and texture slightly.
How do I store Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?
To store Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting effectively, allow the cookies to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Layer parchment paper between cookies if stacking them to prevent sticking. Store at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate for extended freshness up to ten days. For longer-term storage, freeze un-frosted cookies; they maintain their quality better without frosting.
Conclusion for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting:
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. The combination of spices and pumpkin creates a warm flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the creamy frosting. Remember to gather all necessary ingredients and follow proper storage techniques to keep your cookies fresh longer. Whether you enjoy them yourself or share with friends and family, these cookies are sure to be a hit! Enjoy baking and indulging in this delicious recipe!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate fall indulgence, blending cozy pumpkin flavors with a rich, creamy frosting. These soft, chewy cookies are infused with warm spices and topped with a delightful cream cheese frosting that makes them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Ideal for Halloween parties or Thanksgiving gatherings, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your home. Bake up a batch today and enjoy the taste of autumn in every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat brown sugar, granulated sugar, and pumpkin puree until fluffy. Mix in melted butter and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized mounds onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until set but soft in the center. Cool on a wire rack.
- For frosting, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and frost cooled cookies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (38g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
