Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Pumpkin sugar cookies with cream cheese frosting are a cozy, soft-baked treat that wraps up all the flavors of fall in one delicious bite. These cookies are thick and chewy, with just the right amount of spice, and the tangy cream cheese frosting on top takes them to a whole new level. They’re the kind of cookie you’ll want to eat with a mug of hot cider and a blanket on a crisp autumn afternoon.

What makes these cookies truly special is their soft texture and the subtle pumpkin flavor that doesn’t overpower but enhances the cookie experience. The cream cheese frosting balances everything with a luscious, creamy finish. Whether you’re baking for a fall party, Thanksgiving dessert table, or just need something sweet on a chilly day, these pumpkin sugar cookies are it.

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

If you’re a fan of frosted sugar cookies, prepare to fall hard for this pumpkin twist. They stay soft for days, making them perfect for make-ahead baking. You get that comforting pumpkin pie vibe with the ease of a handheld cookie. Plus, they don’t require any chilling, so you can go from mixing bowl to oven without the wait.

Do I Need to Use Canned Pumpkin or Fresh?

Canned pumpkin puree is the best option here. It delivers consistent results in both moisture and flavor. Fresh pumpkin puree tends to be more watery and can change the texture of your cookies unless properly drained. Just make sure you grab 100% pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

Ingredients for the Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

This cookie dough comes together quickly with simple pantry staples, plus a few seasonal must-haves. You’ll love how each ingredient brings something important to the table.

Pumpkin puree — This is the heart of the flavor and moisture. Make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling.

Unsalted butter — Adds richness and keeps the cookies soft and buttery.

Granulated sugar — Sweetens and helps create that classic sugar cookie texture.

Brown sugar — Adds a hint of molasses depth and helps keep the cookies chewy.

Egg yolk — Enhances the structure and richness without adding too much moisture.

Vanilla extract — A must for warmth and flavor depth.

All-purpose flour — The base of the cookie, providing the needed structure.

Baking powder & baking soda — Help the cookies rise and stay soft.

Salt — Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Pumpkin pie spice — Infuses every bite with cozy fall flavor.

Cream cheese — The star of the frosting, offering a creamy tang.

Powdered sugar — Sweetens the frosting to smooth perfection.

Milk — Just a splash to thin the frosting to your liking.

How To Make the Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Start by beating together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This helps set up a soft cookie base.

Step 2: Add the Pumpkin and Egg Yolk

Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until well combined. The dough will look a little soft, and that’s exactly what you want.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Don’t overmix.

Step 4: Scoop and Bake

Scoop dough into rounded tablespoons onto a lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes. The cookies should look slightly underdone in the center – they’ll finish setting as they cool.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

While cookies cool, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then drizzle in a bit of milk to reach your desired consistency. Whip it until fluffy.

Step 6: Frost and Enjoy

Once cookies are fully cooled, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting on top. Sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Serve and Store Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

These pumpkin sugar cookies are ideal for sharing and gifting because they stay soft and flavorful even after a few days. They can be served plain or frosted, but the frosting really makes them shine.

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If stacking, place parchment between layers. Let them come to room temp before serving for the best texture. This recipe makes about 18 to 20 cookies, depending on how big you scoop them.

What to Serve With Pumpkin Sugar Cookies?

Hot Apple Cider

The spice of cider pairs so well with the pumpkin and cream cheese flavors.

Chai Latte

That spiced tea brings extra cozy vibes to your cookie moment.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Try sandwiching two cookies with a scoop of vanilla for a fall twist on an ice cream sandwich.

Maple Glazed Pecans

Crunchy, sweet, and slightly salty nuts are a perfect contrast.

Butterscotch Sauce

Drizzle a little over the cookies if you’re feeling indulgent.

Whipped Cream and Cinnamon

Serve cookies with a dollop on the side for a deconstructed dessert plate.

Espresso

For a bolder pairing, serve with a shot of espresso or a small cappuccino.

Fall Fruit Platter

Grapes, apples, and pears make a refreshing and light complement.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If these pumpkin sugar cookies stole your heart, you’ll definitely want to check out these deliciously creative treats:

• Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars
• Ooey Gooey Bars: A Decadent Treat You Can’t Resist
• Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons
• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a twist to the frosting? Maybe tried cinnamon instead of pumpkin spice? I love hearing how others make these cookies their own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and sweet treats on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to dessert lineup!

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