Description
These soft pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are a delightful autumn treat, combining the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger with a moist pumpkin base. Topped with a creamy, tangy frosting, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a cozy, flavorful dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender texture in the cookies. Add pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined for a smooth batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the cookies tough.
- Scoop and Bake: Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly golden around the edges. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare Frosting: While cookies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frost Cookies: Once cookies are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top of each cookie for a rich, tangy finish.
Notes
- Ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother frosting.
- Do not overmix the dough to maintain soft and tender cookies.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For added texture, consider sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on the frosting before it sets.
- If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce powdered sugar slightly to taste.
