Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

The Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is the ultimate treat for pumpkin lovers! These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with warm spices, making them perfect for any occasion, from cozy fall gatherings to festive holiday parties. With their delightful cream cheese frosting, these cookies will impress both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a rich and comforting taste.
• Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, parties, or an everyday snack; they fit any occasion!
• Frosting Delight: The cream cheese frosting adds a creamy touch that enhances the cookie’s flavor.
• Makes a Lot: With 36 servings, you’ll have plenty to share (or keep for yourself!).

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools make it easy to achieve a creamy mixture when combining butter and sugar.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep wet and dry ingredients separate until you’re ready to mix them together.
• Baking sheets: Using these ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

The perfect recipe for pumpkin season. Kids and adults will absolutely love these pumpkin sugar cookies.

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ⅓ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ginger
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, using an electric mixer:
1. Beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin Mixture

Add the following ingredients:
1. Pumpkin puree,
2. Egg,
3. Vanilla extract.

Beat until combined on low speed. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour,
2. Baking powder,
3. Cinnamon,
4. Salt,
5. Ginger,
6. Nutmeg.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
1. Beat after each addition on low speed.
2. Scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Mixture

While the dough is refrigerating:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for rolling.
2. Set aside.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Remove the dough from the refrigerator:
1. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball.
2. Roll each ball in the sugar/cinnamon mixture.
3. Place on baking sheets lined with parchment paper, leaving about an inch between each cookie.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Press down each ball slightly with a spoon or your palm:
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until edges are slightly brown.

Step 9: Cool Cookies

Remove cookies from the oven:
1. Let them cool completely before icing.

Step 10: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

In a bowl, beat together:
1. Cream cheese,
2. Unsalted butter,
3. Vanilla extract,
4. Salt until combined.

Then add powdered sugar:
1. Beat until smooth.

Step 11: Frost Cookies

Spread cream cheese frosting on top of each cooled pumpkin cookie:
1. Sprinkle additional cinnamon if desired.
2. Enjoy your delicious Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

These soft pumpkin sugar cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any gathering. They can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your fall celebrations.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic and comforting combination.

At a Festive Gathering

• Serve them at parties or gatherings during the fall season; they are sure to disappear quickly!

As a Dessert Bar Item

• Include these cookies in a dessert bar alongside other sweet treats for a delicious variety that guests can enjoy.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea for an afternoon snack that warms the soul.

Gift Them in Mason Jars

• Package the cookies in mason jars tied with ribbons as delightful homemade gifts for friends and family.

How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

To ensure your pumpkin sugar cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing butter, eggs, and cream cheese to room temperature helps them blend better, creating a smoother dough.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the cookie dough for 30 minutes prevents spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.

• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is accurately preheated. An oven thermometer can help maintain the right temperature for even baking.

• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookies. They should be slightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

These pumpkin sugar cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors and textures. Here are some ideas:

1. Cream Cheese Dip: A creamy dip made from softened cream cheese blended with herbs makes a delicious contrast.

2. Spiced Apple Slices: Fresh apples sprinkled with cinnamon provide a refreshing crunch that balances the sweetness of the cookies.

3. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This cozy drink enhances the pumpkin flavor and is perfect for those chilly autumn days.

4. Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted nuts seasoned with spices adds crunch and savory notes alongside the sweet cookies.

5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruits in a cup for a wholesome side that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cookies.

6. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over cookie halves for an indulgent touch that elevates your dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin sugar cookies can be a fun experience, but common mistakes can ruin the batch. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect the texture of your cookies. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Overpacking flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon and level method for precise measurements.
• Skipping the Refrigeration Step: Not chilling the dough may result in cookies spreading too much during baking. Always refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Overbaking the Cookies: Baking them too long will make them hard. Keep an eye on them and remove them when the edges start to brown lightly.
• Ignoring Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too runny, it won’t stick well to the cookies. Adjust with more powdered sugar to achieve a thicker consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• Can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350F and heat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds for soft results.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about our Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe:

What makes these cookies soft?

The combination of butter and pumpkin puree keeps these cookies moist and soft throughout.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just ensure it’s pureed smoothly and not watery.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I customize the frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to add flavors like maple or orange zest to the cream cheese frosting for a twist.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Look for slightly browned edges; they will continue cooking as they cool down.

Final Thoughts

These Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are perfect not only for fall but year-round! Their delightful texture and sweet flavor make them a hit among both kids and adults. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or toppings; the possibilities are endless. Try this recipe today!