Name: Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Creamy Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 73 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup melted butter (or margarine); 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (pure pumpkin); 1 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar); 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature); 2 cups powdered sugar (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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As autumn dances in with its crisp air and colorful leaves, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a plate of warm Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies. These delightful little gems are not only incredibly quick to whip up, thanks to a handy can of pumpkin puree, but they also provide the perfect blend of comforting spices that wrap you in a cozy embrace. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting that offers a delightful tang, these cookies are destined to charm anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or indulging after dinner, these cookies are your go-to fall dessert. Curious to see how easy it is to create these scrumptious treats? Let’s get started!

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Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Warm, Autumnal Flavors: The blend of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice brings a cozy feeling that’s perfect for the fall season.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, these cookies can be made in no time!
Creamy Frosting Delight: The luscious cream cheese frosting not only enhances their flavor but also provides a delightful texture contrast.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, they’re a wonderful addition to holiday gatherings or a sweet pick-me-up on a chilly day.
Crowd-Pleaser: Friends and family alike will rave about these scrumptious cookies, making them a hit wherever you share them!

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cookies; use for the best texture.
Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise and achieve that fluffy feel.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds the perfect warm spice flavor; substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if needed.
Salt – Enhances the cookie flavors and balances the sweetness.
Melted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; margarine works as a good substitute.
Canned Pumpkin Puree – This key ingredient delivers the pumpkin flavor and keeps the cookies moist; ensure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; for a richer taste, use brown sugar.
Egg – Binds the ingredients and contributes to the cookie’s delightful texture.
Vanilla Extract – Provides an additional layer of flavor that enhances everything.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – The star of the frosting, giving it a rich, tangy flavor; use softened for best results.
Unsalted Butter – Adds smoothness to the frosting; be sure it’s at room temperature.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust based on your sweetness preference.
Vanilla Extract – Just a splash adds a delightful depth to the frosting’s flavor.

These delicious Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are sure to become your newest fall favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies bake evenly. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Using a whisk or electric mixer, blend these ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. This mixture is the heart of your cookies, packing them with flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Once combined, gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. You should see a sticky, cohesive mixture that embodies the essence of fall.

Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 25 minutes. Chilling the dough is essential for helping the Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies maintain their shape and preventing them from becoming too sticky. This little wait will be worth it!

Step 5: Form the Cookies
After chilling, remove the dough from the fridge. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, roll the dough into 1.5 to 2 tablespoon-sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Pop the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 18 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time; they should be firm but still soft to the touch. Your kitchen will soon fill with the delightful aroma of fall spices.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cookies cool on a wire rack, make the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and an extra splash of vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined and fluffy.

Step 8: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of the cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. The frosting provides a rich, creamy contrast to the soft textures of your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, making them irresistible!

Step 9: Add a Final Touch
For a beautiful finishing touch, dust a little cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice over the frosted cookies. This simple step enhances the flavors and makes your cookies look even more enticing.

Step 10: Serve and Share
Now that your delicious Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are ready, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying during a cozy evening at home. These treats capture the warmth of autumn in every bite!

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Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while keeping the delightful flavors intact! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, the cream cheese frosting can be made up to 3 days ahead—store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creaminess. When you’re ready to bake, just roll the chilled dough into balls and follow the baking instructions as usual. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy a cozy autumn treat anytime!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Fridge: Store your cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh and intact.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies (frosted or unfrosted) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, gently reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds after thawing. This enhances the pumpkin spice flavor!

Make-Ahead: Prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to a month before baking when you’re ready for fresh Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies.

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookies and make them your own with these fun twists!

Cream Cheese Alternative: Swap cream cheese frosting for a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk for a lighter option.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Roll cookie dough balls in cinnamon sugar before baking for a delightful crunchy exterior that adds an extra layer of sweetness.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice.
Maple Syrup Sweetness: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup in the dough for a unique flavor. Just reduce the butter slightly to maintain the right texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This way, gluten-sensitive friends can also join in the pumpkin spice fun!
Pumpkin Spice Swirl: Add a swirl of pumpkin puree to the cream cheese frosting for an extra pop of flavor and to enhance the overall pumpkin experience.
Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the dough for a gentle warm kick that complements the sweetness wonderfully.
Flavor Fusion: For a chocolatey twist, mix in some mini chocolate chips to the dough, balancing the flavors of pumpkin spice with rich chocolate goodness.

Enjoy experimenting with these variations, and don’t forget to share your tasty creations with loved ones! If you’re interested in another sweet treat, consider trying my Browned Butter Cookies for a delightful indulgence.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Indulging in these sweet treats is just the beginning; let’s explore the perfect pairings to elevate your autumn experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich and buttery flavor of mashed potatoes perfectly balances the sweet spices in your cookies.
Warm Apple Cider: A steaming cup of apple cider, spiced with cinnamon, complements the pumpkin flavors beautifully.

Imagine sipping on this aromatic cider while savoring a freshly baked cookie—pure bliss!

Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty crunch of pecan pie bars adds a delightful contrast to the soft texture of your cookies, making for a festive dessert tray.
Ginger Tea: The spiciness of ginger tea harmonizes with the pumpkin spice cookies, creating a soothing and cozy pairing.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Offer a classic twist and a variety of flavors with another fan-favorite cookie on the table.

My friends love mixing different cookies during gatherings, showcasing unique flavors side by side—it’s a real hit!

Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season fully with a pumpkin spice latte, amplifying that warm, fall vibe with every sip.

These delectable pairings will surely enhance your enjoyment of Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, making every bite a moment to cherish!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies

Chill the Dough: This step is crucial for managing stickiness and helps cookies hold their shape while baking. Don’t skip it!
Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheets prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies without the hassle.
Check Baking Time: If your cookies don’t spread, they may need a little more chilling time or adjustments in baking to achieve the perfect texture.
Cool Before Frosting: Always let cookies cool completely before adding cream cheese frosting; this prevents the frosting from melting and losing its fluffy texture.
Store Properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container in the fridge due to the cream cheese frosting; they’ll stay fresh for up to a week!

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely! Make sure to use pure canned pumpkin puree for these Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, not pumpkin pie filling. The filling contains added sugars and spices that could unbalance the cookie’s flavor and moisture levels.

How should I store my cookies after baking?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This keeps the cream cheese frosting fresh and prevents the cookies from drying out. I recommend placing a piece of wax paper between layers if you’re stacking them to avoid sticking!

Can I freeze these cookies? How?
Yes, you can freeze both frosted and unfrosted cookies! For best results, allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separated by parchment paper if stacking. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, and if you want them warm, microwave for 10-15 seconds.

What if my cookie dough turns out too sticky?
Don’t fret! If your dough is too sticky, chilling it for a longer period (up to 45 minutes) can help firm it up. Keep in mind that sometimes a little flour can be added, but be cautious as too much can alter the texture. If they still don’t spread while baking, they may need a few extra baking minutes.

Does this recipe contain allergens?
Yes, these Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies contain common allergens such as wheat and dairy from flour and butter. If you’re baking for someone with a nut allergy, be sure to check that all ingredients are nut-free. You can also substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, and use dairy-free cream cheese for a lactose-free option.