Name: Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies: The Best Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 68 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1/3 cup pumpkin puree; 1 cup white sugar; 2 cups all purpose flour; 1 large egg; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1.5 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1/4 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; Cinnamon; 4 oz cream cheese (softened); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Introduction to Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

As the leaves start to turn and the cozy sweaters come out, there's one flavor that quickly makes its way into fall: pumpkin spice. It's no wonder that pumpkin spice cookies have become a beloved seasonal treat. They're not just cookies; they encapsulate the warmth and comfort of autumn in every bite.

What makes pumpkin spice cookies so special is their delightful combination of spices—think cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—that perfectly complement the rich sweetness of pumpkin puree. The result? A soft, pillowy cookie that brings back memories of family gatherings and crisp October afternoons. But don’t just take my word for it! According to food enthusiasts, pumpkin flavors saw a surge in popularity, with over 60% of fall dessert recipes featuring this fantastic ingredient.

Plus, these cookies are incredibly versatile. Whether you're enjoying them with your morning coffee or sharing them at a potluck, they're sure to be a hit. Top them off with a luscious cream cheese frosting for an indulgent finish, and you'll have a treat that reminds you of everything wonderful about fall. Are you ready to bring that fall magic into your kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe for pumpkin spice sugar cookies with cream cheese frosting!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Essential ingredients for the cookies

When it comes to making pumpkin spice sugar cookies, having the right ingredients is crucial for creating that perfect blend of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter: ½ cup, melted for a soft texture
Pumpkin puree: ⅓ cup to infuse rich flavor
White sugar: 1 cup for sweetness
All-purpose flour: 2 cups for the cookie base
Large egg: 1 for binding the ingredients
Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoon for warmth
Pumpkin pie spice: 1 ½ teaspoon for that classic fall taste
Baking powder: ¼ teaspoon to help them rise
Salt: ½ teaspoon to enhance flavors

Key ingredients for the cream cheese frosting

The crowning glory of your cookies is the cream cheese frosting, providing a smooth contrast to the soft cookies:

Cream cheese: 4 oz, softened for a creamy consistency
Unsalted butter: ¼ cup, also softened for easy mixing
Powdered sugar: ¼ cup for sweetness and smoothness
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon for that lovely vanilla flavor

These ingredients will not only delight your taste buds but also give your pumpkin spice sugar cookies that irresistible appeal. Don't forget to check for the freshness of your ingredients, especially the spices!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Baking pumpkin spice sugar cookies is not just about following a recipe; it's an experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas and coziness. Ready to embark on this baking adventure? Let’s go step by step!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you begin, make sure you have everything ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

½ cup unsalted butter, melted
⅓ cup pumpkin puree
1 cup white sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 large egg
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
¼ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Cinnamon for garnish

For the cream cheese frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, pumpkin puree, white sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until these ingredients form a smooth, creamy mixture. If you find yourself tempted to lick the spoon, you’re not alone! The combination of pumpkin and butter is simply irresistible.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix into your wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. It should be thick and somewhat sticky—just how a good cookie dough should be.

Need some tips on pumpkin spice ratios? Check out this spice guide for a deeper dive!

Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in your refrigerator for about 25 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld and the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Trust us, this step is crucial!

Shape and Bake the Cookies

Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the dough out of the fridge and roll it into tablespoon-sized balls—aim for 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons for the perfect bite. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them. Bake for about 18 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cookies are cooling, whip up the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Chill the frosting in the fridge to firm it up a bit, making it easier to spread later.

Frost and Finish

Once your cookies are completely cool, it’s time for the tasty finale. Spread about a tablespoon of cream cheese frosting on each cookie. For an extra touch, sprinkle with a bit of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon—because who doesn’t love a little extra flair?

Now, take a moment to admire your creation before indulging. These pumpkin spice sugar cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings, or simply to enjoy as a treat with your morning coffee. Happy baking!

Variations of Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Chocolate Chips

For a delightful twist on the classic pumpkin spice sugar cookies, try adding chocolate chips! Fold in about 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into your dough before chilling. The rich chocolate flavor beautifully complements the warm spices, creating a cozy treat that's hard to resist. It’s the perfect way to elevate your cookie game—who wouldn’t love the combination of pumpkin and chocolate?

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Cookies

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can easily substitute almond flour or a gluten-free blend for the all-purpose flour in the recipe. Just ensure you adjust the baking time slightly, as gluten-free cookies can bake more quickly. These gluten-free pumpkin spice sugar cookies are just as delicious and perfect for sharing at gatherings—no one will even guess they’re gluten-free!

Experiment with these variations and find your favorite take on pumpkin spice sugar cookies. Happy baking!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Ensure Proper Chilling of Dough

Chilling your dough is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your pumpkin spice sugar cookies. After mixing, let the dough sit in the refrigerator for at least 25 minutes. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances their flavor. If you're pressed for time, a quick 10-minute chill can work, but the longer rest really pays off!

Tips for Perfect Frosting Consistency

For that dreamy, spreadable cream cheese frosting, start with fully softened cream cheese and butter. Beat them together until creamy before gradually adding powdered sugar. Avoid lumps for smooth frosting by sifting the sugar. If it's too thick, add a splash of milk; if it’s too runny, sprinkle in more powdered sugar until you reach that perfect velvety texture.

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Enjoying Them with Coffee or Tea

There's nothing like the cozy combo of pumpkin spice sugar cookies and a warm beverage. Pair these delightful treats with a steaming cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea. The spices in the cookies perfectly complement the flavors in your drink, whether you're enjoying a rich espresso or a soothing chamomile. Invite friends over for a little coffee chat, and showcase your baking skills—these cookies will surely impress!

Packaging Them as Gifts

Looking for a heartfelt gift idea? Package your pumpkin spice sugar cookies in a decorative tin or a cute box, adding a personal touch with a handwritten note. Consider wrapping them in parchment paper tied with twine for an artisanal feel. Not only do they taste heavenly, but they also make a thoughtful gesture for holidays, housewarmings, or just because! Share a piece of your culinary success and spread some joy. For packaging ideas, check out resources like Boxed Gifts to find the perfect containers.

Time Breakdown for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Preparation Time

Get your cozy vibes on with just 10 minutes of prep time. This includes gathering your ingredients, mixing the wet and dry components, and rolling your cookie dough into delightful balls. Don't rush through this—engage with the process, and maybe even sip on some pumpkin spice coffee!

Baking Time

Once you've set your cookies on the baking sheet, they’ll need 18 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye (and nose) out for that delectable smell wafting through your kitchen—it's the first sign of your soon-to-be-perfect pumpkin spice sugar cookies!

Cooling and Frosting Time

After baking, allow your cookies to cool completely, which takes another 10-15 minutes. While they cool, whip up the creamy frosting. Once everything has cooled down, it’s time to generously frost each cookie. Don’t be shy—this is the cherry on top of your pumpkin spice masterpiece!

With a little patience, you'll have a scrumptious tray of pumpkin spice sugar cookies ready to impress friends and family!

For more tips on cookie baking, check out The Kitchn or consider experimenting with variations at Food Network.

Nutritional Facts for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Approximate Calories per Cookie

When enjoying these delightful pumpkin spice sugar cookies, each one comes in at around 120 calories. They’re the perfect treat to savor without blowing your calorie budget for the day!

Breakdown of Sugars and Fats

These cookies offer a sweet balance, with about 8 grams of sugar and 5 grams of fat per cookie. The cream cheese frosting adds an extra touch of indulgence and creaminess, with an addition of approximately 3 grams of sugar. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while celebrating the flavors of fall!

For more nutritional insights, you can check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central for in-depth breakdowns of common ingredients used in baking.

FAQs about Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

How can I make these cookies softer?

To achieve perfectly soft pumpkin spice sugar cookies, consider slightly reducing the baking time. Check them at around 15 minutes; they should have a gentle golden edge while remaining soft in the center. Another tip? The moisture from your pumpkin puree can help, so make sure you’re using fresh, not overly dry, puree!

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! Freezing the cookie dough is a great way to prepare ahead. Simply portion the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, just add an extra minute or two to the cook time while baking from frozen.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?

To keep your pumpkin spice sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll usually stay good for about a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them; just remember to bring them back to room temperature before enjoying their flavorful, frosted goodness!

Conclusion on Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Indulging in these pumpkin spice sugar cookies with cream cheese frosting is a delightful way to embrace the cozy flavors of fall. Homemade treats not only fill your kitchen with warmth and spice but also create special moments to share with friends and family. Enjoy every bite!