Soft Pumpkin Cookies
These Soft Pumpkin Cookies are the perfect treat for fall! Their fluffy texture and rich flavor, complemented by creamy frosting, make them an ideal dessert for gatherings, cozy nights at home, or holiday celebrations. Whether you’re a pumpkin lover or just looking for a delightful cookie to enjoy, these treats are sure to impress. Plus, they can be customized with colorful sprinkles for an extra festive touch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Soft: The cookies are pillowy and tender, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Flavorful Combination: Pumpkin puree blends beautifully with warm spices, making each bite taste like autumn.
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
- Versatile Toppings: Enjoy them plain or topped with cream cheese frosting and sprinkles for added flair.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these cookies fit right in.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create your soft pumpkin cookies effortlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine ingredients without spilling.
- Electric mixer: This tool saves time and ensures your cookie dough is well-mixed and fluffy.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
Ingredients
These pillowy Soft Pumpkin Cookies are topped with decadent cream cheese frosting creating an irresistible fall dessert. Reminiscent of Pumpkin Lofthouse Cookies, they can be made with or without sprinkles.
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 15oz can pumpkin puree (approximately 1 cup minus 2 tablespoons)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
For the Frosting
- 4 oz softened cream cheese (make sure to sit it out in advance to come to a softened consistency)
- 3 tbsp softened butter
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- pinch salt (optional)
How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Stir in the pumpkin puree until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice.
2. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon:
1. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
3. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar; mix until smooth.
3. Stir in vanilla extract; add a pinch of salt if desired.
Step 6: Frost Your Cookies
Once cooled:
Spread cream cheese frosting generously on each cookie. Optional: sprinkle some colorful decorations on top!
Enjoy your deliciously soft pumpkin cookies!
How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Soft Pumpkin Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season. They can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your dessert experience.
With Cream Cheese Frosting
- The classic way to serve these cookies is with a generous layer of cream cheese frosting. The rich and tangy flavor pairs beautifully with the pumpkin.
With Sprinkles
- Add a fun twist by topping your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with colorful sprinkles. This is especially great for kids or festive gatherings.
As a Dessert Sandwich
- For an indulgent treat, sandwich two Soft Pumpkin Cookies together with cream cheese frosting in between. This makes for a deliciously sweet bite!
Alongside Hot Beverages
- Pair these cookies with hot drinks like apple cider, coffee, or tea. The warm flavors complement each other well.
With Ice Cream
- Serve your Soft Pumpkin Cookies warm and top them with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. This creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
At Holiday Gatherings
- Present these cookies at holiday parties or gatherings as a seasonal snack. Their festive appearance will surely impress guests!
How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies
To ensure your Soft Pumpkin Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and fluffy cookies.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.
- Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances the flavors.
- Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is accurate. Baking at the right temperature is crucial for achieving soft, chewy cookies.
- Keep an eye on baking time: Bake until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Soft Pumpkin Cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options:
- Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp adds a fruity contrast that balances the sweetness of pumpkin cookies.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The rich spices in chai tea pair wonderfully with pumpkin flavors, making it a cozy pairing.
- Maple Pecan Salad: A fresh salad with maple vinaigrette complements the sweetness while adding crunch through pecans.
- Caramelized Pears: Sweet caramelized pears bring out the autumn essence and provide a juicy contrast to the cookies’ texture.
- Cheese Platter: Include creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory touch that contrasts nicely with sweet desserts.
- Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of soup offers comfort alongside these delightful cookies, enhancing your fall-themed menu.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Soft Pumpkin Cookies can be delightful, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.
- Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.
- Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t blend well with sugar. Always start with softened butter for creamy frosting and dough.
- Not measuring pumpkin correctly: Too much or too little pumpkin affects texture. Use precise measurements for best results.
- Skipping the spices: The spices are key to flavor. Don’t omit them to ensure your cookies are fragrant and delicious.
- Not properly cooling the cookies: Cooling too quickly can cause cracking. Allow them to cool completely before frosting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Soft Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Soft Pumpkin Cookies
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze for about 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Soft Pumpkin Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid for about 30 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Soft Pumpkin Cookies.
How do I make my Soft Pumpkin Cookies even softer?
Adding an extra tablespoon of pumpkin puree can enhance moisture, resulting in softer cookies.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option while still keeping them soft.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I freeze the cream cheese frosting?
Yes! You can freeze cream cheese frosting in an airtight container for up to three months. Just let it thaw before using it again.
Final Thoughts
These Soft Pumpkin Cookies are not only perfect for fall, but they also offer endless customization options. You could add chocolate chips, nuts, or even swap out the frosting for something different. Try these cookies today and experience their cozy flavors yourself!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate fall delight with these Soft Pumpkin Cookies, where warm spices and fluffy pumpkin goodness come together in every bite. Topped with rich cream cheese frosting, these cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings, festive celebrations, or a cozy night in. They’re easy to customize with colorful sprinkles or enjoyed plain for a classic taste of autumn. With minimal prep time and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies will quickly become a seasonal favorite for both pumpkin enthusiasts and casual cookie lovers alike.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (approximately)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla; mix well before stirring in pumpkin puree.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually combine with wet ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a cookie scoop to drop rounded tablespoons onto parchment-lined baking sheets and bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Allow cooling before spreading cream cheese frosting generously on each cookie.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
