As I was pulling out the warm, spiced cookies from my oven, an irresistible aroma filled my kitchen, whisking me straight into the heart of autumn. These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are more than just a sweet treat; they are a delightful way to embrace the cozy vibes of Fall without the hassle of lengthy prep. With their soft, pillowy texture and simple mix of ingredients, they are perfect for bakers of every level. Plus, you can whip them up in no time and skip the chilling of the dough—how convenient is that? Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just seeking a soothing snack, these cookies bring a comfort that will warm your heart and your home. Curious about how to make these tasty gems? Let’s dive right into the cozy recipe! Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible? Softness: These cookies are incredibly soft and pillowy, reminiscent of your favorite cake, perfect for those who love a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Simplicity: With just a few basic ingredients and no need for dough chilling, you can whip these up effortlessly, making them ideal for any level of baker. Flavorful: The warm spices combined with creamy cinnamon frosting create a delightful harmony that captures the essence of fall. Versatile: You can easily customize them by adding nuts for crunch or trying a simple glaze if you want to switch things up. For a truly comforting treat, pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for a family gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies are bound to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients For the Cookies • All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture to the cookies; substitute with a gluten-free blend if desired. • Cornstarch – Helps create a soft and tender cookie texture; can be omitted in small quantities if necessary. • Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Ensure cookies rise properly; always check for freshness for best results. • Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Adds aromatic fall spices; adjust to suit your flavor preferences. • Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient offering moisture; homemade puree can be used with minor adjustments for texture. • Vegetable or Canola Oil – Adds moisture; melted, slightly cooled butter can add more flavor. • Granulated Sugar (or Brown Sugar) – Sweetens the cookies; brown sugar contributes a rich flavor. • Eggs – Binds ingredients together; no substitutes recommended for the desired texture. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies. For the Cream Cheese Frosting • Cream Cheese – Must be softened for easy mixing; the key to a creamy and dreamy frosting. • Salted Butter – Provides richness; unsalted can be used with a pinch of salt added. • Powdered Sugar – Adjusts frosting consistency; start with 3 cups and add more for the desired thickness. • Ground Cinnamon – Included for an extra kick of flavor in the frosting; feel free to sprinkle more on top for garnish. Enjoy creating these delectable Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting that will fill your home with the inviting scent of autumn! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Step 1: Preheat Your Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure the cookies don’t stick. This simple preparation creates a perfect base for your Soft Pumpkin Cookies and makes cleanup effortless. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and the fragrant ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Ensure the dry ingredients are well combined to distribute the leavening agents evenly. This step is crucial for creating the soft, tender texture of your cookies. Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar until smooth. Next, whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract, blending everything thoroughly. This wet mixture will add moisture and flavor to your cookies, making them irresistibly soft and delicious. Step 4: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, mixing in two batches until just combined. Avoid over-mixing; you want the ingredients fully incorporated to preserve the soft texture of your cookies. The resulting batter should be thick and slightly sticky—perfect for making Soft Pumpkin Cookies. Step 5: Portion the Dough Using a medium cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spaced a few inches apart. Gently flatten each cookie by banging the sheet on the counter, which helps them bake evenly. These steps ensure the perfect shape and texture for your cookies. Step 6: Bake the Cookies Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes until the tops are set and a light golden color appears. Be careful not to over-bake; the cookies should maintain their soft, pillowy texture. Once done, let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Step 7: Prepare the Frosting While the cookies are cooling, beat together the softened cream cheese, salted butter, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until creamy and smooth. Gradually add in powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting reaches a desired consistency—a spreadable but fluffy texture perfect for topping your cookies. Step 8: Frost the Cookies Once your Soft Pumpkin Cookies are completely cool, generously frost each cookie with the luscious cream cheese frosting. Use a butter knife or an offset spatula for a smooth application. For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit more ground cinnamon on top of the frosting for a delightful visual and aromatic finishing touch. Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is thick and slightly sticky for the best soft texture in your cookies. If it’s too runny, add a touch more flour. Right Temperature: Always bake at 350°F (175°C) for perfectly golden, soft pumpkin cookies. A lower or higher temperature can result in uneven baking. Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to avoid tough cookies. Gentle folding is key to preserving their softness. Flatten Cookies: Gently bang the baking sheet on the counter after placing the dough to help the cookies spread evenly while baking. Frosting Tip: Use softened cream cheese for easy blending and a creamy finish. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency. Storage Reminder: Store your cookies in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to 5 days. Enjoy your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting! Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delightful pumpkin cookies to suit your taste! Add Crunch: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for an earthy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookies. The nutty flavor elevates each bite, making it even more comforting. Glaze Option: For a simpler alternative, top with a quick glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. This lighter option can double as a drizzle over, say, an autumn fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. Chocolate Twist: Mix in chocolate chips for an indulgent surprise in every bite. The melted chocolate brings richness that pairs perfectly with the spices, creating a delightful taste experience. Spiced Up: Increase the ground cinnamon and nutmeg for a bolder flavor profile. More spice means more warmth, enveloping you in that cozy fall feel with every mouthful. Frosting Fun: Experiment with different frosting flavors, like maple or vanilla, to diversify your cookie experience. Each type of frosting gives a unique twist that can turn these cookies into a seasonal favorite. Breakfast Variation: For a less sweet version, omit the frosting and enjoy the cookies for breakfast; they pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Just imagine cozying up with a bowl of fresh fruit alongside! Pumpkin Spice Lovers: Make these cookies even more pumpkin-spicy by adding a hint of ginger or cloves to the mix. It will amplify the fall flavor and keep your loved ones coming back for more. And if you’re looking for more delightful recipes to try, check out my Pumpkin Cream Cheese for a tasty brunch option or bake up a batch of my soft and gooey Chocolate Chip Cookies. What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Imagine basking in the fragrant embrace of fall as you savor a delightful assortment alongside these treat-filled cookies. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, velvety texture of mashed potatoes balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly, making for a comforting meal. Warm Apple Cider: This spiced drink echoes the cookies’ flavors, creating a cozy drink pairing that captures the essence of autumn. Warm up some spiced apple cider to envelop your taste buds in nostalgia. The crispness of the apple base with hints of cinnamon resonates beautifully with the pumpkin cookies. Nutty Trail Mix: The crunchiness from nuts and seeds adds an enjoyable texture contrast to the softness of the cookies. Perfect for snacking! Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over the cookies creates a decadent dessert experience that’s simply irresistible. A delicious ice cream scoop adds a delightful coldness, heightening the sensory pleasure of your soft pumpkin cookies. It’s a sweet way to elevate your dessert game. Peppermint Tea: Refreshing and calming, this tea serves as a delightful beverage complement that cleanses the palate between bites. Pumpkin Spice Latte: An indulgent drink that echoes the pumpkin cookie flavors, creating a seasonal favorite combination that’s wonderfully festive. Make Ahead Options These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly and refrigerate to prevent browning. Additionally, the cookies can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For the best flavor and texture, frost the cookies just before serving to keep the cream cheese frosting fluffy and fresh. Simply remove the dough from the fridge, bake as directed, allow them to cool, and frost when ready. Enjoy the time-saving benefits of these delightful cookies on your busy days! How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh for quick snacking. Fridge: For extended freshness, place baked cookies in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge; they last up to 5 days. Freezer: Freeze un-frosted cookies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting. Reheating: To enjoy your Soft Pumpkin Cookies warm, microwave them for 10-15 seconds. This revitalizes their soft, pillowy texture and flavor. Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs How do I select the best pumpkin puree? Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for a can that contains 100% pure pumpkin with no added sugars or chemicals. If you’re using fresh pumpkin, choose one that’s firm and free of blemishes, preferably a sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin for the best flavor. If there are any dark spots, you may want to skip it! What’s the best way to store leftover cookies? Very! For optimal freshness, store your Soft Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them in a single layer for up to 5 days. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature for a soft bite! Can I freeze these cookies? Absolutely! To freeze your Soft Pumpkin Cookies, allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each un-frosted cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, then frost them once they’re soft again! What if my cookies turn out too dry? Oh no! If your cookies come out dry, it could be due to over-baking or too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour correctly and bake just until the tops set and edges are lightly golden. If they do end up dry, consider serving them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a comforting touch. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Certainly! While this recipe is straightforward, it does contain common allergens such as gluten (from flour) and dairy (in the cream cheese). If baking for someone with food sensitivities, you could try gluten-free flour for a safe alternative, and you can use dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting to accommodate those who are lactose intolerant. Can I make these cookies vegan? Absolutely! To make vegan Soft Pumpkin Cookies, you can replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit until gel-like) and use a plant-based cream cheese alternative for the frosting. Enjoy experimenting! Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Bliss These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful autumn treat that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 37 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookies2 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute with a gluten-free blend if desired.2 tablespoons Cornstarch Can be omitted in small quantities if necessary.1 teaspoon Baking Powder Check for freshness.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Check for freshness.2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon Adjust to suit your flavor preferences.1 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Adjust to suit your flavor preferences.1 cup Pumpkin Puree Homemade puree can be used.1/2 cup Vegetable or Canola Oil Melted butter can add flavor.1 cup Granulated Sugar Brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.2 large Eggs No substitutes recommended.2 teaspoons Vanilla ExtractFor the Cream Cheese Frosting8 oz Cream Cheese Must be softened.1/2 cup Salted Butter Can use unsalted with a pinch of salt.3 cups Powdered Sugar Adjust for desired consistency.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Feel free to sprinkle more on top. Equipment OvenMixing bowlsWhiskCookie ScoopBaking sheetsParchment Paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg.In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar until smooth. Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract.Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture in two batches until just combined.Using a medium cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spaced apart.Bake for 10–12 minutes until the tops are set and lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.While the cookies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese, salted butter, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until creamy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar.Once the cookies are completely cool, generously frost each cookie with the cream cheese frosting. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 80mgSugar: 12gVitamin A: 1500IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
