Nothing quite says “cozy season” like a batch of soft pumpkin spice cookies wafting their aromatic embrace through your home. As the first crisp leaves tumble to the ground, I find myself drawn to the warmth of my kitchen, where the alluring scents of cinnamon and nutmeg converge. Just last weekend, I had friends over, and the craving for something sweet led me to whip up this delightful treat. Their eyes lit up as they bit into the soft, tender cookies, each topped with a luscious layer of cream cheese frosting that perfectly balanced the spices.

This recipe isn’t just easy to make; it’s versatile enough to become your go-to for everything from cozy family gatherings to festive autumn potlucks. With just a few simple ingredients, you can bring a taste of fall to your table—and trust me, these cookies will vanish in no time! So, grab your apron, and let’s transform that can of pumpkin into pure magic.

Why will you love these pumpkin spice cookies?

Indulgent experience: These pumpkin spice cookies are soft, fluffy, and bursting with autumn flavors, making them a perfect treat for cozy gatherings.

Creamy frosting: Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, each cookie offers a delightful contrast of textures that is sure to impress.

Simple preparation: The recipe is straightforward, ideal for bakers of all skill levels; you can whip up a batch in no time!

Versatile delights: Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or a dessert at a holiday gathering, these cookies are sure to satisfy every palate.

Seasonal joy: Capture the magic of fall right in your kitchen and share it with loved ones. For more delicious ideas, check out my other seasonal recipes for a taste of autumn!

Pumpkin Spice Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Pumpkin Puree – Key flavor and moisture; can substitute with applesauce for a different fruitiness.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; can replace with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic sweetener.
• Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness and texture; substitute with honey or agave syrup (adjust liquid content).
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
• Pumpkin Spice – The signature seasoning blend; can substitute with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if unavailable.
• Eggs – Binds ingredients together and contributes to rise; replace with flax egg for a vegan option.
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor; use unsalted, but for dairy-free, substitute with coconut oil.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Base for frosting, providing tanginess; vegan cream cheese can be an alternative.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust quantity for desired sweetness.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cookies bake evenly and reach that perfect soft texture.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until everything is smooth and well incorporated.
Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This helps create a lovely, airy batter that results in fluffy cookies.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and pumpkin spice. This ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients throughout the dough.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix; a few flour streaks are perfectly okay!
Scoop Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop generous mounds of dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each for spreading.
Bake: Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. The edges should be firm, while the centers remain soft and slightly puffy.
Make Frosting: While the cookies cool, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
Frost Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, generously frost each one with the creamy frosting for a delightful finish!

Optional: For an extra kick, sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on top of the frosting.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor.

Refrigerator: If you prefer them chilled, you can store the pumpkin spice cookies in the fridge for up to 7 days; just be sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Frosting Tip: If frosted, consume within 3 days at room temperature; for frozen cookies, frost them after thawing for the best flavor experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance, simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the cream cheese frosting, it can be made up to 3 days ahead; keep it in the fridge as well. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and place the chilled dough directly onto a lined baking sheet, and bake as directed. This not only saves you time but ensures the cookies are just as fresh and delicious, giving you that comforting homemade treat with minimal effort when the craving strikes!

What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Indulging in these cookies brings the warmth of autumn into your home, creating the perfect setting for delightful pairings.

Chai Tea: The spices in chai harmonize beautifully with pumpkin, creating an aromatic experience that complements each sweet bite. Enjoying these cookies with a steaming cup of chai can elevate your cozy moments to new heights.
Apple Cider: This classic fall beverage’s sweet and tart flavor pairs perfectly with the soft cookie’s warmth, reinforcing the seasonal spirit in every sip and bite.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream adds a creamy, dreamy element to your cookie experience, creating a luscious contrast against the spiced flavors in the cookie.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese can bring a savory touch that contrasts the cookie’s sweetness, especially when drizzled with honey for extra flair.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Keep the pumpkin theme strong with this lusciously creamy coffee drink. The combination of flavors will give you that warm, comforting hug from both your cup and your cookies.
Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with some granola and a sprinkling of cookie crumbs creates a delightful dessert that feels lighter yet satisfying, perfect for a brunch or light dessert.
Chocolate Stout Cake: For a more indulgent option, a rich chocolate stout cake can act as a decadent counterpart, balancing the sweetness of the cookies with its deep, chocolatey flavor.
Mixed Berry Salad: Fresh berries provide a burst of tartness that complements the sweet spices in the cookies, making for a refreshing contrast while keeping things light and healthy.
Whipped Cream: A simple dollop can elevate your cookie experience, adding a cloud of silky flavor that enhances the pumpkin cookies’ delightful textures and spices.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit of warm caramel on top or alongside the cookies can add a rich, buttery sweetness that takes the experience to the next level.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Softening Butter: Allow butter to soften at room temperature for easier mixing. This ensures better incorporation of sugars, leading to a delightful texture.

Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough until just combined to prevent tough cookies. Overmixing can develop gluten, making your soft pumpkin spice cookies dense.

Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal rise. Stale baking soda will lead to flat cookies that lack that classic puffiness.

Cool Before Frosting: Be patient and allow cookies to cool completely before frosting. This helps prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting and maintains its perfect texture.

Scoop Size Matters: Use a cookie scoop to maintain uniformity in size, ensuring even baking and consistent textures across your pumpkin spice cookies.

Personalize with Mix-ins: Don’t be afraid to add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture. Swirl in a bit of maple extract for an exciting twist!

Pumpkin Spice Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore these creative variations to elevate your pumpkin spice cookies and make them uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a delicious gluten-free option.
Vegan: Replace eggs with a flax egg and use coconut oil instead of butter to craft a delightful vegan treat.
Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture beautifully.
Choco-Chunky: Mix in dark chocolate or white chocolate chunks for a rich, decadent flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin spice.
Maple Frosting: Swap out powdered sugar for maple syrup in your frosting for a unique, autumn-inspired sweetness.
Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for an unexpected, warm kick that enhances the spices.
Fruit-Filled: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins into the batter for a fruity burst that brings a festive element to each bite.
Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: Before baking, roll the cookie dough in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet, spiced crust that adds extra flavor.

Soft Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! Choose 100% pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor and moisture. I recommend checking labels to avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. If you find yourself without pumpkin puree, unsweetened applesauce can be a delightful substitute, giving your cookies a fruity twist!

How should I store the pumpkin spice cookies?
Store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’re looking to keep them fresh for longer, placing them in the refrigerator will extend their life up to 7 days, just remember to wrap them well to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these pumpkin spice cookies! Simply place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, ensuring they’re well wrapped, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw them at room temperature. If they’re frosted, frost them after they’ve thawed to maintain that lovely cream cheese texture.

Why did my cookies turn out flat?
Very often, flat cookies are caused by either using cold butter rather than softened or stale baking soda. To troubleshoot, ensure your butter is room temperature, which makes blending smoother, and always check that your baking soda is fresh—an expired leavener won’t give your cookies the rise they need.

Are these cookies safe for my pets?
It’s best to avoid sharing these cookies with your pets. The sugar and cream cheese frosting aren’t suitable for animals, and the spices may upset their stomachs. Always keep your furry friends safe and stick to dog- or cat-friendly treats when you want to share the love!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To convert this recipe for a gluten-free diet, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I often use blends that contain xanthan gum as it helps mimic the texture of traditional flour, giving you soft and chewy cookies that everyone will enjoy!