Name: Soft Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Creamy Cheese Frosting Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free option.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Leavening agent.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Additional leavening.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor.); 3/4 cup Brown Sugar (Substitute with coconut sugar for a natural sweetener.); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (May use another granulated sweetener.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Primary spice for flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Can be omitted.); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves (Can be replaced with allspice.); 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (Substitute with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (No substitutions needed.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Substitute with margarine for dairy-free.); 1 cup Pumpkin Purée (Ensure it's pure puree.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened for ease of mixing.); 2 tablespoons Milk (Adjusts frosting consistency.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (No substitutions for best results.)

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As I walked through the bustling farmers’ market last fall, the scent of pumpkin and warming spices wafted through the air, drawing me closer to a cozy booth filled with autumn produce. It was there that I was inspired to create my Soft and Cakey Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. These delightful cookies boast a melt-in-your-mouth texture and are stunningly easy to whip up—perfect for satisfying cravings during busy weeknights or impressing guests at gatherings. Each bite delivers the warmth of fall flavors, while the tangy frosting adds a creamy finish that sets these cookies apart from traditional recipes. Are you ready to bring home that market charm and elevate your baking game? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

Why Are Pumpkin Spice Cookies Irresistible?

Warm, Cozy Flavors: The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin creates a seasonal hug in each bite, making these cookies a delightful treat for sweater weather.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up even on a busy day.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Soft and cakey with a fluffy cream cheese frosting, these cookies are akin to enjoying dessert and comfort food in one.
Perfect for Gatherings: Whether for brunch or holiday parties, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family—just like my Honey Cheesecake Salted for a sweet finish!
Storage-Friendly: You can prep the dough in advance, allowing you to bake fresh cookies effortlessly whenever the craving strikes.
Indulge in the season with these delicious Pumpkin Spice Cookies with a Cream Cheese Frosting that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Pumpkin Spice Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the cookie structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Baking Soda – A necessary leavening agent that helps cookies rise for a delightful texture.
Baking Powder – Additional leavening to achieve that perfect cakey cookie consistency.
Salt – Enhances flavor, making it an essential ingredient in baked goods.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a rich caramel flavor; can substitute with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetener.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and texture; you may use another granulated sweetener if desired.
Cinnamon – The primary spice for flavoring these soft pumpkin spice cookies; feel free to include other warming spices for variety.
Ground Nutmeg – Contributes depth of flavor; can be omitted if you don’t have it on hand.
Ground Cloves – Adds a rich, aromatic note; can be replaced with allspice for a quick substitution.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – A blend of warming spices; substitute with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if necessary.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the richness of flavor; no substitutions needed here.
Unsalted Butter – Provides moisture and flavor; margarine can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
Pumpkin Purée – The key ingredient for moistness and authentic pumpkin flavor; ensure it’s pure puree, not pumpkin pie filling.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – The creamy base for the frosting; remember to soften for ease of mixing.
Milk – Adjusts the consistency of the frosting; use any fat content you prefer.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; no substitutions are necessary for the best results.

These ingredients lend themselves beautifully to the warmth and comfort of Pumpkin Spice Cookies with a Cream Cheese Frosting, perfect for satisfying any autumn craving!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Cookies with a Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Pumpkin Spice Cookies bake evenly from the moment you place them inside. While the oven heats up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper—this will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together your softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, taking on a pale color. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, providing a light texture for your cookies.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Vanilla
Next, add in the pumpkin purée and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on medium speed until well combined and smooth. The pumpkin should be fully blended with the creamed mixture, contributing to the moist texture and rich pumpkin flavor of your Pumpkin Spice Cookies.

Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and pumpkin pie spice. This step is essential to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices. Once thoroughly mixed, gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a sticky dough begins to form.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, take about 2 tablespoons of the sticky dough and roll it into a ball. Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between them to allow for spreading. Flatten each ball slightly with your palms to encourage even baking—these will ensure your cookies are soft and cakey.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. The cookies should appear soft to the touch and lightly golden around the edges when done. Avoid overbaking; the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes on the tray before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and a bit of unsalted butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and milk while mixing, and continue until you achieve a fluffy, spreadable frosting consistency. The cream cheese frosting complements the rich flavors of the Pumpkin Spice Cookies beautifully.

Step 8: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over each one using a spatula or knife. For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top of the frosted cookies, enhancing the fall flavors. This final touch adds a delightful visual appeal and an extra hint of spice!

Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Variations

Feel free to get creative with these treasured cookies, customizing their flavor and texture to suit your palate!

Dairy-Free: Replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use margarine instead of butter for a deliciously inclusive treat!
Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a delightful crunch that complements the spice beautifully. The nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the pumpkin, enhancing every bite.
Chocolate Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a rich, chocolatey twist. The combination of chocolate and pumpkin spice creates a heavenly dessert that’s hard to resist!
Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Different Spice: Swap pumpkin pie spice for 2 teaspoons of ginger and 1 teaspoon of allspice. This variation brings a warm depth that’s beautifully aromatic, perfect for those cozy evenings.
Applesauce Substitute: For a lighter cookie, substitute 1/2 cup of pumpkin purée with applesauce. This twist not only adds a unique flavor but also makes the cookies slightly moister and lower in calories.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy! The taste remains delicious, allowing all bakers to partake in the joy of these cookies.
Frosting Variations: Add 1 teaspoon of orange zest to the cream cheese frosting for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens the flavors of the cookies, creating a delightful balance with fall spices.
Caramel Drizzle: For a decadent touch, drizzle melted caramel over the tops of frosted cookies. It adds an indulgent sweetness that will leave everyone reaching for one more cookie!

These variations can help elevate your Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting to fresh new heights. For even more inspiring ideas, check out my Blueberry Cookies Soft or indulge in a sweet slice of Honey Cheesecake Salted for your next gathering!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft and Cakey Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the cream cheese frosting can be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the fridge—just remember to bring it to room temperature before frosting for easy spreading. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and shape the chilled dough, then bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy fresh, warm cookies any night of the week with minimal effort, while keeping the delightful texture and flavor intact!

Storage Tips for Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and delicious.
Fridge: For extended freshness, place cookies in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for optimal texture.
Freezer: You can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag a must-have for those unexpected cravings later.
Frosting Storage: Cream cheese frosting can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. Bring it to room temperature before frosting the cookies for the best spreadability and flavor!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Cool Completely: Ensure cookies cool entirely before frosting; warm cookies can cause the cream cheese frosting to melt and run.
Use Wet Hands: When handling the sticky dough, wet your hands to prevent the dough from sticking, making shaping easier.
Adjust for Texture: For a thinner cookie, flatten the dough balls more before baking; this gives you a delightful difference in texture while still enjoying your pumpkin spice cookies with a cream cheese frosting.
Don’t Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until a sticky dough forms; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add extra spices, like ginger or cardamom, for a burst of flavor—personalize your pumpkin spice cookies!

What to Serve with Soft and Cakey Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These delectable cookies bring the essence of autumn straight to your kitchen, and pairing them with delightful accompaniments can elevate your experience even more.

Warm Apple Cider: This spiced drink complements the cookies’ flavors while offering a delightful warmth that makes each bite feel like a cozy embrace.
Chai Tea: The rich, aromatic spices of chai provide a perfect balance to the sweet pumpkin spice cookies, enhancing their warm notes.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing contrast to the soft texture of the cookies, while the creaminess harmonizes beautifully with the cream cheese frosting.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: The earthy flavors of a smooth butternut squash soup make an elegant starter that resonates with fall vibes, creating a lovely dinner experience.
Ginger Snaps: These crunchy cookies introduce a delightful textural contrast while sharing similar warming spice notes, making for a perfect snack combination.
Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty sweetness of pecan pie bars serves as a contrasting dessert that complements the soft cookies and gives a festive flair to your dessert table.
Honey Lemonade: A refreshing glass of honey lemonade can add a zesty, bright note to your pumpkin-flavored treats, clearing the palate perfectly.
Spiced Nuts: A small bowl of spiced nuts offers a crunchy, savory snack that contrasts wonderfully with the cookie’s sweetness, making your gathering more inviting.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: It’s a classic match! This seasonal drink plays on the same flavors as the cookies, enhancing the overall cozy experience.

Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin purée for my cookies?
Absolutely! It’s important to choose pure pumpkin purée, which is often found in cans labeled as “100% pumpkin” rather than “pumpkin pie filling,” which contains added sugars and spices. If you prefer, you can also make your own by roasting and puréeing fresh pumpkins. Look for vibrant, smooth purée without any added ingredients for the best flavor and moisture.

What’s the best way to store pumpkin spice cookies?
Very simple! Store your baked pumpkin spice cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to stay fresh longer, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture!

Can I freeze pumpkin spice cookies?
Definitely! You can freeze your baked cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, let the cookies cool completely. Then, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature, and they’ll taste almost as fresh as the first day!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries at all! If your cookie dough is too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This helps firm it up, making it easier to scoop and shape. Alternatively, you can wet your hands before rolling the dough into balls. This trick prevents sticking and keeps things manageable.

Is there a way to make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This helps mimic the texture of traditional flour, so your pumpkin spice cookies have that soft, cakey consistency you love. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the gluten-free flour package for best results!

Can I give these cookies to my pets as treats?
It’s best to avoid giving these soft pumpkin spice cookies to pets, particularly because of the cream cheese frosting, which is rich and may upset their stomachs. If you’d like to treat your furry friends, consider making a simple pumpkin treat without sugar or spices, as plain pumpkin can be a great addition to their diet!

Enjoy these delightful tidbits about your Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting—a joyful treat for everyone!