Name: Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
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 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1/4 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; Cinnamon, for sprinkling; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 26 reviews

If you’re ready to dive into the flavors of fall with a cookie recipe that delivers warmth, sweetness, and a touch of spice, then the Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. These cookies are soft and thick, bursting with the cozy essence of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice. Topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting, every bite feels like a celebration of the season. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed fall favorite that’s easy to whip up and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows baking ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface. There is a white bowl filled with white flour in the center. To the left of the bowl, there is a single white egg resting on the surface. Above the flour bowl, a measuring cup filled with dark maple syrup is placed next to a metal measuring cup filled with white sugar. To the right of the sugar, there is a stick of butter with a light cream wrapper. On the lower right side, two metal measuring spoons hold a small amount of white baking powder and a brown spice, possibly cinnamon. The arrangement is simple and neat, with soft natural light illuminating the ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, fundamental ingredients is the first step to these delightful cookies. Each one plays a vital role in delivering the perfect taste, texture, and that unmistakable autumnal color that makes these cookies so inviting.

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds richness and moisture while helping create a tender crumb.
Pumpkin puree (1/3 cup): Infuses natural pumpkin flavor and moisture for that soft, dense texture.
White sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cookies and balances the spices perfectly.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides structure to keep the cookies soft but sturdy.
Large egg (1): Binds ingredients together and contributes to the cookie’s texture.
Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances overall flavor with a smooth, warm note.
Pumpkin pie spice (1 1/2 tsp): Packs in the signature fall spice blend for that classic pumpkin taste.
Baking powder (1/4 tsp): Helps the cookies rise just enough for a thick, tender bite.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
Cinnamon: For sprinkling, adding a warm and fragrant finish.
Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): The star of the frosting, bringing tanginess and creaminess.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, softened): Blends with cream cheese for a smooth frosting texture.
Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens and thickens the frosting for easy spreading.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a tender, aromatic note to the frosting.

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

Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, pumpkin puree, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir these together until everything is smooth and well combined. This mix sets the base for your cookies and ensures the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 2: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Next, add in your flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms. The pumpkin pie spice is key here—it’s what makes these sugar cookies distinctively fall-inspired, marrying perfectly with the pumpkin puree for a flavor explosion.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Cover your dough with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for 25 minutes. This chilling step is crucial—it firms up the dough so that when baked, the cookies hold their shape but still remain soft and tender in the center.

Step 4: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Once chilled, roll the dough into balls about 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons each. Arrange them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper—you should get 12 to 14 cookies. Bake for 18 minutes until set but still soft. Your kitchen will instantly be filled with a warm, inviting aroma.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cookies are baking, whip together the cream cheese and softened butter in a medium bowl. Once smooth, beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Chill this frosting until the cookies are completely cooled. This tangy frosting adds the perfect balance to the spicy sweet cookies.

Step 6: Frost and Finish

Spread about one tablespoon of frosting on each cooled cookie. For a final touch, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice atop the frosting. This extra sprinkle not only looks beautiful but also enhances the fall flavors even more.

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

The image shows eight round, golden-brown cookies arranged in two rows on a white parchment-lined baking sheet with a white marbled textured surface underneath. Each cookie has one layer of smooth, creamy white frosting on top covering most of the cookie’s surface. Light brown powder, likely cinnamon, is sprinkled unevenly over the frosting and the parchment paper around the cookies, adding a soft texture contrast. The cookies have a soft, thick look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or extra pumpkin pie spice right on top of your frosted cookies gives them a lovely rustic, autumn feel. You could also experiment with finely chopped toasted pecans or a light drizzle of caramel sauce to bring a contrasting texture and sweetness.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of chai tea, pumpkin spice latte, or even a creamy mug of hot chocolate. Offering a refreshing glass of cold milk is always a classic choice that balances and soothes the spice and sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, arrange your cookies on a tiered serving tray alongside fall foliage or tiny pumpkins as decorations. Alternatively, stack them in clear cellophane bags tied with twine for charming gift-giving. You can also create a cookie sandwich by spreading extra frosting between two cookies—pure indulgence!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your baked and frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. They will stay delicious for up to 4 days, making them a great make-ahead treat for busy fall weeks or special gatherings.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the unfrosted cookie dough balls on a baking sheet first. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw and bake as usual. You can also freeze baked cookies without frosting, then frost right before serving for a fresh taste.

Reheating

When enjoying leftovers, let refrigerated cookies come to room temperature for a few minutes or warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This little step revives their softness and the frosting’s creamy texture without melting it too much.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin puree works well, but ensure it’s cooked and pureed smoothly. Keep in mind fresh pumpkin has more moisture, so you may want to slightly reduce other liquid ingredients to maintain the right cookie texture.

Is pumpkin pie spice necessary, or can I use other spices?

Pumpkin pie spice is a convenient blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice that perfectly complements pumpkin. If you don’t have it, mixing your own spices or just cinnamon will still make tasty cookies, but the classic pumpkin spice flavor is what makes these special.

Can this Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just be sure it includes xanthan gum or a similar binder to help keep the cookies tender and cohesive.

How do I make the frosting less sweet?

To reduce sweetness in the cream cheese frosting, simply cut back on the powdered sugar gradually and taste as you go. Adding a small pinch of salt can also help balance the sweetness nicely without sacrificing flavor.

Can I decorate the cookies with other toppings?

Definitely! Try adding chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or even edible gold flakes for a sparkle effect. These toppings can add texture and extra flair to your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough giving this Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe a try this season. It’s such a comforting treat that perfectly captures the essence of pumpkin and spice in every bite. Plus, the creamy frosting takes these cookies from simple to sublime. Whether for cozy nights in or festive gatherings, these cookies will surely become a beloved staple in your fall dessert lineup.