As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to turn golden, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of fresh-baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting while searching for a way to embrace the season’s flavors. Imagine sinking your teeth into a pillowy-soft cookie, each bite infused with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, perfectly complemented by a luscious cream cheese frosting.

These little treats are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of everything we love about fall—cozy evenings, gatherings with friends, and just the right touch of sweetness. Whether you’re looking to impress at a cookie swap or simply treat yourself after a long day, these cookies are incredibly easy to whip up and are guaranteed to evoke smiles. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into the delightful world of pumpkin goodness!

Why are Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting irresistible?

Irresistible flavors: Each cookie is a warm hug of pumpkin and spice that brings fall right to your tastebuds.
Smooth frosting: The velvety cream cheese frosting provides a delightful tang that perfectly balances the sweetness.
Easy to make: Simple steps allow even beginner bakers to create delicious cookies that wow friends and family.
Perfect for any occasion: Be it a cozy night in or festive gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress every time.
Time-saving treat: Whip up a batch in no time and enjoy the aroma that fills your kitchen.

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Pumpkin Puree – 100% pure pumpkin puree is key to achieving that moist texture and rich flavor.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies while ensuring a tender crumb; don’t skimp!
Brown Sugar – Adds depth and a hint of molasses that enhances the pumpkin flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Ensures a rich, soft texture; stick to unsalted for better control over salt levels.
Egg Yolk – Contributes to a chewy structure without making the cookie too cake-like; consider a flax egg for a vegan option.
Vanilla Extract – Boosts the overall flavors, harmonizing beautifully with the pumpkin and spices.
All-Purpose Flour – The foundation of the cookie dough; don’t overmix to keep them tender.
Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise and maintain their soft, chewy texture.
Salt – Balances the sweetness for a more rounded flavor experience.
Ground Cinnamon – Provides a warm, cozy flavor that screams fall.
Ground Nutmeg and Cloves – These spices deepen the flavor profile and enhance the pumpkin experience.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – Adds that rich, tangy flavor which perfectly offsets the sweetness in the frosting.
Powdered Sugar – Essential for sweetness and contributing to the fluffiness of your frosting.
Unsalted Butter (for frosting) – Ensures a smooth, spreadable consistency; don’t substitute with margarine for best results.
A Pinch of Salt (for frosting) – Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness.

Dive right into the world of Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting and experience the joy autumn brings!

How to Make Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Preheat Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to warm up while you prepare the cookie dough.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, softened butter, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until evenly mixed.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender cookie!
Scoop and Shape: Using a tablespoon, drop rounded amounts of cookie dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Bake: Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
Cooling: After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make Frosting: While the cookies cool, beat the cream cheese and softened butter together with the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.
Frost Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie.

Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle the frosted cookies with a pinch of cinnamon before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

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

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container alongside the cookies.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container to avoid sticking. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Reheating: For a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel, pop the cookies in a microwave for a few seconds. Just ensure the frosting is removed, as heat can cause it to melt!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

As you savor the heavenly combination of spice and sweetness, consider what delightful pairings will elevate your cookie experience even more.

Warm Apple Cider: The festive flavors of spiced apple cider harmonize beautifully with the cookies, enhancing the autumnal spirit of your treat.
Chai Latte: This creamy, spiced beverage complements the warm spices in the cookies, creating a cozy duo perfect for chilly evenings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream offers a creamy contrast to the pumpkin cookies, making each bite even more indulgent and delightful.
Ginger Snap Cookies: For an extra kick of spice, serve alongside ginger snaps to create a delightful cookie spread that everyone will love.
Candied Pecans: These crunchy, sweet toppings add texture and depth, making every bite of your cookie feel like a festive celebration.
Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate: Dive deeper into the season with a rich pumpkin spice hot chocolate that echoes the flavor profile of the cookies, creating a warming treat.
Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: Whip up a creamy dip using the same cream cheese frosting to slather on fresh fruit like apples or pears, bridging flavors beautifully.
Maple Walnut Scones: Treat your tastebuds to flaky scones drizzled with maple syrup. The sweet nuttiness pairs perfectly with the spiced cookies, adding new dimensions to your dessert table.
Autumn Fruit Salad: A mix of apples, pears, and pomegranates provides a fresh, zesty contrast that lightens the sweet richness of the cookies.
Coffee: A cup of rich, freshly brewed coffee balances the sugariness of the cookies, invigorating the senses while leaving a warm impression.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Use Pure Pumpkin: Always opt for 100% pure pumpkin puree; it ensures the best flavor and texture for your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the tender ones you desire.
Cool Before Frosting: Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before adding the frosting; warm cookies can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
Store Wisely: Keep your cookies fresh in an airtight container for up to a week. Adding a slice of bread helps maintain moisture and softness.
Chill Dough for Ease: If the dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before scooping; it makes shaping easier and neater.

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Variations

Feel free to sprinkle some creativity into your baking with these delightful options!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour or a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Vegan Delight: Use plant-based butter and vegan cream cheese for a completely dairy-free treat that maintains its deliciousness.
Healthier Sweetness: Reduce the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup for a lower-sugar cookie that still delivers sweet satisfaction.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough to add a delightful crunch and enhance the autumnal flavors.
Chocolate Twist: Mix in chocolate chips, either dark or white, for a luscious, sweet surprise that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin spice.
Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of ground black pepper for a surprising kick that elevates the cookie’s flavor profile.
Zesty Flavor: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the frosting for a fresh citrusy brightness that complements the spices.
Frosting Fun: Experiment with a maple cream cheese frosting instead of traditional cream cheese frosting for a new sweet twist that adds another layer of deliciousness.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it together, then covering it tightly and refrigerating it. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and shape the dough directly from the fridge, and bake as directed for fresh cookies. The frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick whip before spreading it on your cooled cookies to ensure it’s fluffy and smooth. This way, you can enjoy delightful, homemade treats with minimal effort on a busy weeknight!

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! Always use 100% pure pumpkin puree for your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor and texture of your cookies. Look for the can that clearly states “pure pumpkin” on the label for the best results!

How should I store these cookies to keep them fresh?
To retain their soft and chewy texture, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For an extra trick, add a slice of bread to the container; this helps maintain moisture and keeps cookies soft. If you’d like, you can also refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Very much so! To freeze your cookies, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or a freezer bag. This will help prevent them from sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator and savor the rich flavors!

What if my cookies come out too cakey or dry?
If your cookies turn out too dry or cakey, it often means they were overmixed or baked for too long. Make sure to mix your dough just until combined and check for doneness at around 10 minutes. The cookies should have set edges and soft centers. If you find your dough too sticky while handling, consider chilling it in the fridge for 30 minutes before scooping.

Can I make this recipe vegan or gluten-free?
Absolutely! For a vegan version, swap the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, set aside for 5 minutes). If you’re looking to make them gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour for almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind you’ll want to adjust baking times based on your chosen flour!