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Pumpkin Spice Cookies with a Cream Cheese Frosting

Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Delight in soft pumpkin spice cookies topped with cream cheese frosting, perfect for fall gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Cookies
  • 2 cups All-purpose flour Consider using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking soda Ensure it's fresh for best results.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking powder Can be omitted if extra baking soda is used.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Sea salt offers a nice taste if preferred.
  • 1 cup Brown sugar White sugar can be used but will make cookies less chewy.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar Coconut sugar can be substituted for a unique flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons Cinnamon Allspice or chai spice can add complexity.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground nutmeg Skip if you prefer a milder taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground cloves Reduce for a gentler flavor or omit entirely.
  • 2 teaspoons Pumpkin pie spice More cinnamon can be used if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract May substitute with almond extract for a twist.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup Pumpkin puree Both homemade and canned varieties work well.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 ounces Cream cheese Mascarpone can substitute for a milder flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Butter Vegan butter is another option for dairy-free.
  • 2 tablespoons Milk Use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
  • 3 cups Powdered sugar Do not substitute with granulated sugar.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • hand mixer
  • Cookie Scoop

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin puree and vanilla, mixing well. In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients until a sticky dough forms.
  2. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough into 2-tablespoon-sized balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball slightly. Bake for 15 minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers are still soft. Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  3. While cookies cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine room-temperature cream cheese and unsalted butter. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, mixing until fluffy and spreadable. Add a splash of vanilla.
  4. Once cookies are completely cooled, frost each with a generous layer of cream cheese frosting. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookieCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 12gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Freeze in a single layer then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Cookie dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Frosting can be made in advance too.

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