Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing: A Fall Favorite 🎃🧁🍂
1. Introduction
Welcome to your new go-to recipe for fall easy dessert recipes and Thanksgiving recipes dessert cookies. These soft pumpkin cookies with cream cheese icing are the perfect combination of moist, tender pumpkin-flavored cookies topped with rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. As an easy sweet dessert, this recipe is ideal for celebrating the season with your family or impressing guests at your Next Thanksgiving platter ideas. Whether you’re after easy fall sweet treats or a simple addition to your Thanksgiving platter ideas, these cookies are a must-try.
2. Ingredients for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
3. Cream Cheese Icing
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4. Step-by-Step Instructions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing
Preparation of the Pumpkin Cookie Dough
**Combine Dry Ingredients**
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
**Cream Butter and Sugars**
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer on medium speed until creamy. Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, then beat until light and fluffy.
**Add Egg, Vanilla, and Pumpkin**
Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until well combined.
**Incorporate Dry Ingredients**
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Do not overmix.
Forming and Baking the Cookies
**Portion the Dough**
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded spoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
**Bake**
Preheat your Cuisinart compact automatic bread maker or standard oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
**Cool the Cookies**
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Icing
**Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter**
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer with the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
**Add Sugar and Vanilla**
Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Frosting the Cookies
Once cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese icing on each cookie. For a decorative touch, pipe the icing or add a sprinkle of cinnamon.
5. Storage Tips and Serving Suggestions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best taste, allow the cookies to come to room temperature before serving. These easy dessert thanksgiving treats pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, making them perfect for a festive fall or Thanksgiving celebration.
Looking for more fall easy dessert recipes to complement your pumpkin cookies? Check out our strawberry cheesecake-stuffed cookies or the irresistible salted caramel variations for a complete dessert table.
6. Variations and Tips for Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies
- For no chocolate dessert recipes, skip adding chocolate chips—these cookies are flavorful enough on their own.
- Adjust spices like ginger or cloves for extra warmth and flavor.
- Use cookie cutters for fun shapes—perfect for kids’ parties or festive platters.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes these pumpkin cookies soft and moist?
The addition of pumpkin puree keeps the cookies moist and tender, while careful baking prevents them from drying out. Be sure not to overbake—12-15 minutes is ideal.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting for the best texture.
What other fillings or toppings can I add?
Feel free to add chopped pecans, walnuts, or a drizzle of caramel on top for extra flavor. If you love pumpkin spice roll cake, try incorporating some spices into the cream cheese frosting.
8. Conclusion
These soft pumpkin cookies with cream cheese icing are a delightful addition to any fall gathering or Thanksgiving feast. Their perfect blend of warm spices, moist pumpkin flavor, and creamy frosting makes them a crowd favorite among easy fall sweet treats and thanksgiving dessert cookies. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time—making them an ideal choice for your upcoming holiday table or cozy afternoon snack. Don’t forget to explore other delicious easy dessert thanksgiving options to complement your festive spread!
Print
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing
- Total Time: 27-30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing are a perfect fall treat that combine tender pumpkin cookies with rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. Ideal for Thanksgiving and fall dessert tables, these cookies are moist, flavorful, and easy to make, making them a favorite seasonal recipe for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with a mixer until creamy. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar, and beat until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until fluffy.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting on cooled cookies. Decorate as desired.
Notes
- Ensure not to overbake the cookies to maintain their moist texture.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For extra flavor, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough or frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150 Kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
