Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Delight

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Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that perfectly encapsulates the essence of fall. Imagine the warm aroma of spices filling your kitchen as you bake these delectable cookies. These cookies are not just soft and fluffy; they are also incredibly moist and rich in pumpkin flavor. Topped with creamy frosting, they become an irresistible addition to any gathering or cozy night in. Let’s dive into the world of these amazing cookies and learn how to make them!

Why You’ll Love This Soft Pumpkin Cookies with

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these soft pumpkin cookies. First, they are incredibly easy to make, making this an easy pumpkin cookie recipe for bakers of all levels. Second, the blend of spices, including cinnamon and nutmeg, creates a deliciously comforting flavor reminiscent of pumpkin spice cookies. Third, the addition of cream cheese frosting elevates these cookies to a whole new level of indulgence. Fourth, they are soft-baked and chewy, perfect for anyone who enjoys chewy pumpkin cookies. Fifth, they are perfect for the fall season, making them ideal for gatherings and celebrations. Lastly, these cookies can be made healthier or even vegan, accommodating various dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with

Gather these items:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (for cookies)
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cookies)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter until creamy. Add granulated sugar and beat for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until combined, then mix in pumpkin puree until just incorporated.
Step 3: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined (do not overmix). Cover dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Step 4: Scoop rounded spoonfuls of chilled dough onto prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and centers are soft. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Ensure cream cheese and 1/2 cup unsalted butter are at room temperature. In a clean large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar on low speed, then increase speed to medium-high and beat for 1-2 minutes until fluffy. Stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until combined.
Step 6: Once cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous dollop of cream cheese frosting on top of each. Store frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best flavor, let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies with

Keep these in mind:

Chill the dough for best results.
Use room temperature ingredients for the frosting.
Store cookies in an airtight container.
For a fun twist, try adding pumpkin cookies with chocolate chips or nuts.

Best Ways to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with

These cookies are perfect on their own, but they can also be paired with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For an extra touch, consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also create a delightful dessert platter featuring other fall treats like pumpkin cookies with cinnamon and nutmeg.

How to Store and Reheat Soft Pumpkin Cookies with

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply microwave them for a few seconds before serving. Remember, these cookies are great for meal prep; you can make a batch ahead of time for busy weeks!

Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Pumpkin Cookies with

What’s the secret to perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies with?

The secret to perfect soft pumpkin cookies lies in chilling the dough and ensuring that you don’t overmix the ingredients. This helps achieve that delightful cakey softness.

Can I make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and chill it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste of your moist pumpkin cookies.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to measure your flour correctly, and don’t skip the chilling step. These tips will help you create fluffy pumpkin cookies every time.

Creative Variations of Soft Pumpkin Cookies with You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:
1. For a healthier option, try making healthy soft pumpkin cookies using whole wheat flour.
2. You can also create vegan soft pumpkin cookies by substituting the egg with a flaxseed mixture.
3. If you are gluten-sensitive, use a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free soft pumpkin cookies.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Pumpkin Muffins or Apple Bundt Cake. If you’re interested in healthy options, visit our Healthy Banana Bread recipe. You can also explore Ghostly Peanut Butter Balls for a fun treat!