There is nothing quite like the cozy feeling of autumn captured in a single treat, and this Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe does just that. Soft, moist pumpkin-spiced cookies are topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting, making each bite an irresistible harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge yourself on a crisp afternoon, this recipe brings warmth and sweetness together in the most delightful way.

Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the first step to these wonderfully flavorful pumpkin cookies. Each ingredient plays an important role, from warming spices that evoke fall’s essence to butter and pumpkin that ensure softness and moisture.

All-purpose flour (2 cups): Forms the sturdy base of the cookie, giving structure and a tender crumb when measured carefully.
Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps the cookies rise just enough for that perfect fluffy texture.
Baking powder (1/2 tsp): Works alongside baking soda for subtle lift and softness.
Salt (3/4 tsp): Balances the sweetness and deepens flavor complexity.
Ground cinnamon (1 1/2 tsp): Infuses the cookies with that iconic warm spice note.
Ground nutmeg (1/2 tsp): Adds a hint of earthy sweetness that complements pumpkin beautifully.
Ground ginger (1/2 tsp): Brings a subtle zing that rounds out the spice profile.
Ground cloves (1/8 tsp): Offers rich, aromatic depth in small but impactful amounts.
Unsalted butter, softened (10 Tbsp): Ensures tender, rich cookies with melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the dough and helps with browning.
Light brown sugar, packed (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and subtle molasses flavor for chewiness.
Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients while contributing to the cake-like texture.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with its warm, sweet aroma.
Canned pumpkin (1 cup): Provides moisture, flavor, and that signature pumpkin hue.
Unsalted butter, nearly at room temperature (5 Tbsp): Used specifically for the frosting’s creamy base.
Cream cheese, nearly at room temperature (4 oz): Creates the signature tangy richness of the frosting.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting with a smooth texture.
Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp): Adds aromatic notes to perfectly balance the frosting’s flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it reaches the ideal temperature for baking. Line your baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Taking these little prep steps early sets the stage for success!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Getting these spices evenly mixed is key to a uniform flavor in every cookie bite, so take a moment here to blend them thoroughly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and well combined. Then add the egg, canned pumpkin, and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth and homogenous. This vibrant mixture holds the magic that makes these cookies so tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Combine until just incorporated to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cookies. You’ll notice the dough thickening to a luscious, inviting texture, ready for scooping onto the sheet.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake the Cookies

Drop spoonfuls of the dough about 2 inches apart on the lined baking sheets. Bake for around 12-15 minutes, or until edges are set and tops are lightly golden. Expect your kitchen to fill with pumpkin spice goodness as these cookies bake to soft perfection.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cookies cool completely, beat together the 5 tablespoons of room temperature butter and cream cheese until fluffy and airy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well to achieve a silky, spreadable consistency. This frosting is the crowning glory that turns these cookies into a decadent treat.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once the cookies are fully cooled, generously spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting over each cookie. The creamy, tangy layer is the perfect contrast to the warming spices, creating a cookie that’s rich, balanced, and utterly delicious.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra-special touch, consider sprinkling the frosted cookies with a few chopped toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar. The crunch and added aroma elevate each bite and make your presentation pop with rustic charm.

Side Dishes

Pair these pumpkin cookies with a steaming mug of chai tea or cinnamon-spiced coffee for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up. For gatherings, serving alongside a warm apple cider or even a glass of creamy milk creates a lovely balance and complements the cookie’s sweet and spicy notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the cookies in a clear glass jar tied with a ribbon for gifting, or arrange them on a festive platter adorned with autumn leaves and small pumpkins. You can pipe the frosting in pretty swirls or add edible gold dust for a bit of sparkle when hosting a special get-together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, these cookies are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. They’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days, making them perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the pumpkin cookies without frosting by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature, then spread with frosting just before serving for a freshly made taste.

Reheating

If you prefer your cookies slightly warm, gently microwave an unfrosted cookie for about 10-15 seconds before frosting, or warm a frosted cookie briefly for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth experience—just be careful not to melt the frosting completely.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just make sure to roast and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth, then measure one cup for the recipe. Homemade pumpkin puree might have a slightly different moisture content, so keep an eye on the dough consistency.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

Look for lightly golden edges and a set but soft center. The cookies will firm up more as they cool, so avoid overbaking to keep them soft and chewy.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

With a few substitutions—like using vegan butter, a flax egg instead of a chicken egg, and a dairy-free cream cheese—you can create a fantastic vegan version that maintains that wonderful pumpkin spice flavor.

What’s the best way to achieve a smooth frosting?

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are both at nearly room temperature and beat them well before adding powdered sugar gradually. This prevents lumps and results in the creamiest frosting.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the cookie dough?

Yes! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or mini chocolate chips can add delightful texture and flavor contrasts. Fold them in gently during the final mixing step to distribute evenly.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is truly a keepsake in the world of cozy seasonal treats. It’s an absolute joy to bake, full of rich flavors that remind you of crisp autumn days, and every bite offers the perfect balance between soft, spiced cookie and creamy frosting. I can’t wait for you to try it and make this heartwarming recipe a cherished favorite in your own kitchen.