Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Card

A delightful treat for any occasion, the Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Card brings warmth and flavor to your table. These soft, cakey cookies are infused with the irresistible flavors of pumpkin spice and topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for fall festivities, cozy gatherings, or even a simple afternoon snack, these cookies will surely become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, baking these cookies is a breeze for everyone.
• Flavorful Delight: The blend of pumpkin spice creates an aromatic experience that captures the essence of autumn.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for various occasions, from holiday parties to casual get-togethers.
• Irresistibly Soft Texture: The cakey consistency ensures each bite melts in your mouth, making them hard to resist.
• Customizable Frosting: Adjust the sweetness or add flavors to the cream cheese frosting to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything at hand will streamline the process and make it more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars for a smooth mixture.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cookies to bake uniformly without sticking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet and ensures easy cleanup.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need:

For the Cookies:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• A pinch of salt
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 Tbsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup pumpkin purée

For the Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese (at room temp)
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 1 Tbsp milk
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup powdered sugar

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Card

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
2. Mix in the pumpkin purée and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pumpkin pie spice.
2. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

1. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, roll dough into balls about 2 tablespoons each.
2. Place them on a lined baking sheet; flatten slightly with your hand or a spatula.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a clean mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract; mix until creamy.

Step 6: Frosting and Storage

Once your cookies have cooled completely on a wire rack:
1. Spread cream cheese frosting generously over each cookie.
2. Optionally sprinkle with additional cinnamon for extra flavor.
3. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Card

These delicious pumpkin spice cookies with cream cheese frosting are perfect for various occasions. Serving them creatively can enhance the experience and delight your guests.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee or Tea: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat during cooler months.
• Chai Latte: The spices in chai complement the pumpkin flavor, making it an ideal pairing.

As a Dessert Platter

• Assorted Cookies: Serve these cookies alongside other seasonal treats like gingerbread or sugar cookies for variety.
• Fruit and Nut Board: Add fresh fruits and nuts to create a colorful dessert spread that balances sweetness.

For Celebrations

• Party Favors: Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons for guests to take home after events.
• Birthday Treats: Use these cookies as an alternative to cake, serving them at birthday parties with festive decorations.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Card

Perfecting your pumpkin spice cookies ensures they turn out soft, flavorful, and visually appealing every time. Here are some helpful tips for achieving cookie perfection.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep cookies tender and soft, avoiding tough results.
• Chill the Dough if Needed: If the dough feels too soft, chill it for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Let the cookies cool completely to prevent the frosting from melting off.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Card

Adding side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options that pair well with pumpkin spice cookies.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink that complements the spices in the cookies perfectly; serve hot with cinnamon sticks.
2. Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: Crunchy and salty, these make a great contrast to the sweetness of the cookies; lightly season before roasting.
3. Caramel Sauce Dip: Serve this sweet dip alongside your cookies for an extra layer of indulgence; perfect for drizzling!
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can balance the sweetness; include crackers for added texture.
5. Pecan Pie Bites: Miniature pecan pies offer a nutty flavor that pairs well with pumpkin spice; serve them warm or at room temperature.
6. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is delightful alongside these cookies; consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and avoiding common mistakes will help ensure your Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting turn out perfectly.

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This guarantees a smooth frosting and well-mixed dough.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate flour measurement. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix until just combined to maintain the softness of your cookies. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
• Storing improperly: Use airtight containers to keep your cookies fresh. Improper storage can lead to stale cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Card

• Freeze un-frosted cookies for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Card

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for about 1 minute, covered, to warm through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use whole wheat flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.

How do I make these vegan?

Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use a plant-based cream cheese alternative for the frosting.

Can I freeze these Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Card?

Yes, you can freeze un-frosted cookies. Make sure they are wrapped properly before freezing.

What spices can I add or substitute?

Feel free to add ginger or cardamom for an extra kick or adjust the spice ratios according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delightful but also versatile. They make a perfect treat for any occasion! You can customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips if desired. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its wonderful flavors!