Why Make This Recipe
Soft Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for fall or any time you crave a soft and chewy treat. With their warm spices and creamy frosting, they bring the cozy flavors of the season right into your kitchen. Plus, these cookies are easy to make and can be enjoyed by the whole family, making them a great choice for gatherings, parties, or just a sweet snack at home.
How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream), for desired consistency
Directions
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl (or stand mixer), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
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Add Pumpkin Puree, Egg, and Vanilla: Beat in the pumpkin puree until well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
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Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours).
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
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Scoop and Shape the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
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Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set.
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Cool the Cookies: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Cream Butter and Cream Cheese (Frosting): In a large bowl (or stand mixer), cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
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Gradually Add Powdered Sugar (Frosting): Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined.
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Add Vanilla Extract and Milk (Frosting): Beat in the vanilla extract. Then, add milk (or heavy cream) one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
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Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them with the cream cheese frosting.
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Optional Decorations: If desired, decorate the frosted cookies with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the frosted cookies immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies
These cookies are delightful on their own or served with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also present them on a festive platter during gatherings, making them a delicious treat to share with friends and family.
How to Store Soft Pumpkin Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to freeze the cookies before frosting and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer bag.
Tips to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- For the best flavor, use pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the cookies maintain their shape.
- Experiment with your favorite spices or add chocolate chips for extra flavor.
Variation
You can add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the dough for added crunch. Additionally, incorporating chocolate chips can give the cookies a delightful twist.
FAQs
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Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. -
How do I know when the cookies are done?
They should be lightly golden on the edges and the centers should look set, but slightly soft. -
Can I use a different frosting?
Absolutely! You can use a simple vanilla glaze or even a chocolate frosting if you prefer.