Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These soft pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are a delightful autumn treat. Made with pumpkin puree and warm spices, they are light, cake-like, and perfectly complemented by a smooth cream cheese frosting. Ideal for holidays, gatherings, or simply enjoying with a warm drink, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are incredibly soft, moist, and flavorful, thanks to the pumpkin puree and aromatic spices. The cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the cookie. They are simple to make, versatile for different occasions, and a crowd-pleaser for anyone who loves pumpkin-flavored desserts.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Ground cinnamon

• Ground nutmeg

• Ground cloves

• Salt

• Unsalted butter

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Egg

• Pumpkin puree

• Vanilla extract

• Cream cheese

• Powdered sugar

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Beat in the egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

7. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops spring back when touched.

8. Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

9. To prepare the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until creamy.

10. Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled cookies and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies.

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Bake time: 12 minutes per batch

• Cooling and frosting: 20 minutes

• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add chocolate chips or white chocolate chips to the dough for extra sweetness.

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for added crunch.

• Use a maple glaze instead of cream cheese frosting for a different flavor profile.

• Mix in a pinch of ginger to enhance the spiced flavor.

storage/reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If stacking, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. These cookies can also be frozen (unfrosted) for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and frost before serving. For best texture, avoid reheating after frosting.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, but make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth, then drain excess liquid to avoid overly moist cookies.

Can I make these cookies without frosting?

Absolutely. The cookies are delicious on their own, but the frosting enhances the flavor.

How do I make the cookies more chewy instead of cake-like?

Reduce the pumpkin puree slightly and add one more egg yolk for a chewier texture.

Can I freeze frosted pumpkin cookies?

It is not recommended, as the frosting can become watery after thawing. Freeze unfrosted cookies instead.

Can I substitute gluten-free flour?

Yes, a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend can be used in place of all-purpose flour.

Can I make the frosting less sweet?

Reduce the powdered sugar and add a touch more cream cheese for a tangier, less sweet frosting.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.

What type of pumpkin should I use?

Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Yes, substitute dairy-free butter and vegan cream cheese alternatives.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients. Be sure to bake in batches to avoid overcrowding the oven.

Conclusion

Soft pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are the ultimate fall dessert, offering a tender, spiced bite with a luscious creamy topping. They are easy to prepare, versatile for gatherings, and perfect for satisfying seasonal cravings. Whether served plain or dressed up with variations, these cookies will quickly become a cherished recipe in your collection.

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