Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to embrace the warmth of pumpkin season, you’ve found it! This Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is a delightful way to bring the flavors of fall into your kitchen. The cookies are soft, sweet, and frosted with a creamy layer of goodness that everyone will adore. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a busy weeknight dessert, or just because, these cookies are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!

What makes these pumpkin sugar cookies special is their tender texture combined with warm spices that fill your home with an irresistible aroma. Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up on any day, making them a great recipe to share with friends and loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps, these cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for any baking level.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will enjoy the soft texture and sweet flavor. They’re great for kids’ snacks or holiday treats!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake when you’re ready for fresh cookies.
• Deliciously spiced: The warm flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg create the perfect fall vibe in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find everything you need for this recipe right in your pantry! These ingredients are not only simple but also wholesome and delicious.

• 1 cup 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 (for rolling)
• ½ tsp cinnamon (for rolling)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in some chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
• Include nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and flavor.
• Use different spices: Try swapping out cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice for an even more robust taste.
• Make them smaller: Roll smaller balls of dough for bite-sized delights that are perfect for sharing.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly soft.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy. This step is important because it incorporates air into the mixture, creating fluffy cookies!

Step 3: Mix in Pumpkin and Egg

Next, add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat these together at low speed until well combined. The pumpkin not only adds flavor but also keeps the cookies moist.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and nutmeg. Whisking these dry ingredients helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout your cookie dough.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture. Beat on low speed after each addition while scraping down the bowl’s sides. This ensures everything is well mixed. Once combined, cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps keep your cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Mixture

While your dough chills, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This sugary coating will add sweetness and flavor to the outside of each cookie.

Step 7: Shape Your Cookies

After chilling, scoop about two tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Then roll each ball in the sugar/cinnamon mixture before placing them on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Leave about an inch between each cookie ball so they have room to spread as they bake.

Step 8: Bake Them Up!

Gently press down on each ball using your palm or a spoon before popping them into the oven. Bake for about 10–12 minutes or until the edges are slightly browned but the centers remain soft—a sign they’ll be chewy!

Step 9: Cool & Frost

Once baked, let your pumpkin sugar cookies cool completely on wire racks before frosting them with cream cheese frosting made by beating together cream cheese, softened butter, vanilla extract, salt, and powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Spread that luscious cream cheese frosting on top of each cooled cookie—don’t forget an extra sprinkle of cinnamon if you like! Now sit back, relax and enjoy every delightful bite of these Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies!

With this easy recipe in hand, you’re all set to create memories around delicious homemade cookies. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Baking is an art, and with these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to creating the most delightful soft pumpkin sugar cookies!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures that the butter creams smoothly with the sugar, leading to a light and fluffy dough.

• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading while baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.

• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly browned on the edges but still soft in the middle. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies.

• Make sure your baking sheets are lined: Using parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also helps achieve even baking and easy cleanup.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon, nutmeg, or add a pinch of cloves for a more robust flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Presenting these soft pumpkin sugar cookies can be a delightful experience! Whether it’s for family gatherings or just a cozy evening at home, here are some fun serving ideas.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top of the frosting adds a warm touch and enhances the visual appeal.
• Chopped nuts: Finely chopped walnuts or pecans can provide a crunchy contrast to the softness of the cookies.

Side Dishes

• Spiced apple cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider pairs beautifully with these cookies, creating a comforting autumn treat.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream balances out the spices in the cookies and makes for a delightful dessert combo.
• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast and lightens up your dessert spread, making it ideal for any occasion.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing these cookies with your favorite brew enhances their flavors and makes them even more enjoyable during snack time.

With these serving suggestions, your soft pumpkin sugar cookies will not only taste amazing but also look inviting on any table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make the dough ahead of time or even bake them in advance, making it easy to enjoy fresh cookies whenever you want.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you have frosted cookies, keep them in the fridge to maintain the cream cheese frosting’s freshness for about a week.

Freezing

• To freeze unbaked cookie dough, scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
• For baked cookies, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen baked cookies, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Warm them in the oven at 350F for about 5-7 minutes if you prefer them slightly warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make this Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives.

How should I store my Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies?

Store your Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If frosted, keep them refrigerated for longer freshness!

What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?

Using canned pumpkin puree is most convenient and ensures consistent results. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin without additives!

Can I add chocolate chips to this Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some chocolate chips or nuts into your cookie dough before baking for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies as much as I do! They’re truly special with their soft texture and delightful spices that capture the essence of fall. Whether you’re sharing them with family or keeping a stash just for yourself, these cookies are bound to bring joy. Happy baking!