Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Fall is synonymous with the comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and warm spices. If you’re searching for a treat that captures the essence of autumn, look no further than Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. These soft, chewy cookies, bursting with pumpkin flavor and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, are the perfect seasonal delight. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make these cookies, including tips, nutritional information, and answers to common questions.

Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are not your average cookies. The combination of warm spices, sweet pumpkin, and the tangy cream cheese frosting creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a fall party, Thanksgiving, or simply want to enjoy a cozy treat, these cookies are sure to impress.

The Unique Flavor Profile of Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

What sets these cookies apart is their unique blend of flavors. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and a subtle earthiness, while the spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—bring warmth and depth. The cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, tangy contrast that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These cookies are incredibly versatile. They can be dressed up with sprinkles for a festive occasion or enjoyed as a simple, comforting treat. The recipe is straightforward, making it a great option for both novice and experienced bakers.

Ingredients

To create the perfect Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pumpkin Sugar Cookies:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: orange or autumn-colored sprinkles for decoration

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This step ensures that the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. These spices will give your cookies that quintessential autumn flavor.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure your cookies remain soft and tender.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Coat each ball in granulated sugar for an added crunch. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the cookies are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is thick and fluffy. If needed, add a teaspoon of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top of each one. Decorate with orange or autumn-colored sprinkles if desired.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are now ready to be enjoyed! Whether you’re serving them at a fall gathering or indulging in a sweet treat at home, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

Notes and Tips

Choosing the Right Pumpkin Puree

Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that can alter the taste and texture of your cookies.

Storage Tips

Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The frosting is perishable, so refrigeration is essential.

Freezing the Dough

If you want to prepare these cookies ahead of time, you can freeze the dough balls before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Customizing the Recipe

Feel free to add your own twist to this recipe! Chopped pecans, white chocolate chips, or a dash of maple syrup in the frosting can add extra layers of flavor.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies offer more than just a sweet treat. Pumpkin is packed with vitamins and nutrients, making these cookies a slightly healthier indulgence. Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A, which is essential for good vision and immune function, and also provides a good source of fiber.

Nutrition Details

Serving: 1 cookie
Calories: 150

Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g

Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 85mg

Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g
Vitamin A: 25% DV

Calcium: 2% DV
Iron: 4% DV

FAQs

Can I Make These Cookies Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and freeze it as mentioned in the tips. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Can I Use Store-Bought Frosting?

While homemade cream cheese frosting is recommended for its rich flavor and creamy texture, you can use store-bought frosting in a pinch.

Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or white chocolate chips would be delicious additions to these cookies. You can even sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top for an extra burst of flavor.

What If I Don’t Have Pumpkin Puree?

If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can substitute with sweet potato puree or even mashed bananas, though the flavor will differ slightly.

How Do I Know When the Cookies Are Done?

The cookies are done when the edges are set and lightly golden. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create the perfect batch of Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. Enjoy this delightful treat throughout the fall season and share the warmth of these flavors with friends and family!

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