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 is sure to impress your family and friends. These cookies are soft, cakey, and infused with a rich blend of aromatic spices, making them perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as an indulgent snack. The creamy frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the spiced cookie base.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible flavor: The blend of pumpkin spice creates a warm, comforting taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these cookies can be whipped up in no time.
• Versatile dessert: Perfect for holidays, parties, or casual get-togethers; they fit any occasion.
• Creamy frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a deliciously rich layer that elevates these cookies.
• Great for sharing: With 12 cookies per batch, they’re ideal for sharing with friends or family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process and ensure a successful baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all your ingredients without any mess.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and ensures a smooth batter.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides even heat distribution while baking your cookies.

Ingredients

A wonderfully soft and cakey cookie with a rich blend of pumpkin spice and a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting.

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: Cream Butter and Sugars

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 the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

1. Roll the dough into balls using about 2 tablespoons of dough each.
2. Flatten each ball slightly before placing them on a lined baking sheet.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the edges are set.

Step 5: Make Frosting

1. In a clean mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to the mixture; mix until creamy.

Step 6: Frost and Store

Once your cookies are completely cool:
1. Generously frost each cookie with cream cheese frosting.
2. Sprinkle with additional cinnamon if desired.
3. Store leftover cookies in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Enjoy your delightful Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting!

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

These delightful pumpkin spice cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their soft, cakey texture paired with creamy frosting makes them an irresistible treat. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a comforting afternoon snack. The rich spices in the cookies complement the coffee’s flavor beautifully.

As a Dessert Platter

• Include these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other sweet treats. Their vibrant color and creamy frosting will catch the eye and delight guests at parties or gatherings.

For a Holiday Celebration

• Serve pumpkin spice cookies during fall festivities or holiday celebrations. Their seasonal flavors make them an ideal choice for Thanksgiving or Halloween.

At a Bake Sale

• These cookies are great for bake sales. Their unique taste and appealing appearance can attract buyers looking for something special.

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

Perfecting your pumpkin spice cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and frosting, ensuring even mixing.

• Don’t overmix the dough: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies instead of the light, cakey texture you want.

• Chill the dough: If you have time, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and can improve the cookie’s texture.

• Check for doneness: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done.

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

To round out your dessert experience, consider pairing these pumpkin spice cookies with complementary side dishes. Here are some tasty options:

1. Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider pairs perfectly with the flavors of pumpkin spice, enhancing the autumnal vibe.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that balances out the spiced cookies, creating a delightful contrast in temperatures.

3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese on your platter. The creaminess of cheese contrasts nicely with sweet flavors.

4. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the cookies, adding brightness to your dessert spread.

5. Chocolate Ganache Dip: Serve chocolate ganache as a dip alongside your cookies for those who enjoy combining chocolate and pumpkin flavors.

6. Hot Chocolate: A cup of rich hot chocolate enhances the cozy experience while providing a chocolatey contrast to spiced sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with cookies. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Boldly measuring ingredients: Accurate measurement is crucial. Use the spoon and level method for flour instead of scooping directly from the bag.
• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Creaming butter and cream cheese at room temperature helps achieve a smooth texture. Take them out of the fridge ahead of time.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
• Overmixing dough: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies soft and cakey. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Not using parchment paper: Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Always line your baking sheets.

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 cookies without frosting for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• For frosted cookies, freeze individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a container.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Card

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie for 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, for a couple of minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Card.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?

You can use pumpkin pie filling, but it contains added spices and sugar. Adjust the recipe accordingly if you do.

How do I make my cookies softer?

Ensure you don’t overbake them. Remove them from the oven when they are still slightly undercooked in the center.

Can I substitute other types of flour?

Yes, you can try whole wheat or gluten-free flour blends, but this may alter the texture slightly.

What is the best way to frost these cookies?

Use an offset spatula for even spreading or pipe frosting onto each cookie for a decorative look.

How long will these cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will last about 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips if desired. Enjoy making these delightful treats that capture the essence of fall!