Introduction to Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing wafting through the house. These delightful treats are not just a dessert; they’re a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy moms and professionals like us. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a fall gathering or simply want to indulge in a sweet moment after a hectic day, this recipe is your go-to solution. Trust me, once you try these cookies, they’ll become a cherished favorite in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing
These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing are a dream come true for busy lives. They come together in just 35 minutes, making them a quick treat for any occasion. The soft, fluffy texture paired with the rich cream cheese icing creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing, so you can spread the joy of fall with friends and family!
Ingredients for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show! It adds moisture and that lovely pumpkin flavor.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the cookies, balancing the spices perfectly.
- Brown sugar: This adds a hint of caramel flavor and keeps the cookies soft and chewy.
- Butter: Softened butter is essential for a rich, tender texture. It helps create that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Egg: A large egg binds everything together and contributes to the cookies’ fluffiness.
- Vanilla extract: This adds a warm, comforting flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the cookies, providing structure while keeping them soft.
- Baking soda and baking powder: These leavening agents help the cookies rise, giving them that fluffy texture.
- Ground cinnamon: A must-have spice for that classic fall flavor, warming your soul with every bite.
- Ground nutmeg: This adds a subtle depth of flavor, enhancing the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making them pop!
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of cloves or ginger for an extra kick. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of making these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be rewarded with cookies that are soft, fluffy, and utterly irresistible!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. If the oven isn’t hot enough, your cookies might spread too much or not rise properly. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is the secret to cookie perfection!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is vital because it incorporates air into the batter, giving your cookies that light, airy texture. Aim for a pale, creamy consistency—this is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Mix in the Pumpkin and Egg
Next, add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. The pumpkin puree is the star ingredient here, adding moisture and that signature soft texture. It’s what makes these cookies so delightful and perfect for fall!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This step is essential for evenly distributing the leavening agents and spices. Just remember, don’t over-mix! We want to keep that fluffy texture intact.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to dense cookies. We want to keep them soft and airy, so a few flour streaks are perfectly fine!
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space between each cookie, as they will spread a little while baking. This is your chance to create perfectly shaped cookies, so have fun with it!
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden, but the centers still look soft. Remember, they will continue to cook a bit after you take them out, so don’t overbake!
Step 8: Cool and Ice the Cookies
Once baked, let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling time is essential for achieving the right texture. While they cool, whip up your cream cheese icing. Once the cookies are cool, spread the icing generously on top. Enjoy the delightful combination of soft pumpkin cookies and rich cream cheese icing!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the icing set perfectly.
- For a thicker icing, add more powdered sugar gradually.
- Experiment with spices to find your perfect flavor balance.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
- Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a whisk can do the job too!
- Baking sheet: Use a standard cookie sheet or a jelly roll pan.
- Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking; aluminum foil is a good alternative.
- Cookie scoop or spoon: For evenly sized cookies, but a tablespoon works just fine!
Variations of Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing
- Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies: Add a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free treat.
- Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter.
- Spiced Pumpkin Cookies: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cloves, ginger, or allspice to the dry ingredients.
- Nutty Pumpkin Cookies: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing
- Pair these cookies with a warm cup of spiced chai or pumpkin spice latte for a cozy treat.
- Serve them on a festive platter, garnished with cinnamon sticks and fall leaves for a seasonal touch.
- For a fun twist, sandwich two cookies with cream cheese icing in between!
FAQs about Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, just cook and puree it until smooth. It will work beautifully in these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just thaw before serving!
Can I make the cream cheese icing ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese icing a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and give it a quick stir before spreading it on your cookies.
What can I substitute for the egg in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, try using a flax egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the cookie dough?
Definitely! Adding nuts or chocolate chips can elevate the flavor and texture of your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing. Just fold them in gently before baking.
Final Thoughts
Making Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of pulling warm cookies from the oven fills your home with a comforting aroma that invites everyone to gather around. Each bite is a delightful blend of soft pumpkin goodness and creamy icing, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the fall spirit, and let these cookies become a cherished tradition in your home!
Print
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing: A Must-Try Delight!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft and fluffy pumpkin cookies topped with a rich cream cheese icing, perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely before icing.
- For the cream cheese icing, beat together 8 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spread the icing on cooled cookies and enjoy!
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cloves or ginger.
- These cookies freeze well; just thaw before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg