Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate treat to celebrate the pumpkin season, look no further! This Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is a true delight that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a cozy night in, or just to enjoy with your favorite cup of tea, these cookies are sure to be a hit. With their soft texture and hint of spices, they capture the essence of fall in every bite.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. You’ll find that both kids and adults will absolutely love joining in on the fun of shaping and decorating these delightful cookies! So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started on something sweet that everyone will rave about.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The steps are simple, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Get everyone involved in rolling and decorating these cookies!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates an irresistible taste.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake when ready.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for parties, holidays, or just because!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delightful pumpkin sugar cookies. You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

For the 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

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar

Variations

This Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to change things up:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
• Incorporate Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices like allspice or cardamom for extra flavor.
• Swap the Frosting: Use a glaze or even a dairy-free frosting if you prefer.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect soft texture we all love.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine your softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until creamy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that light texture.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Egg

Next, mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat at low speed until fully combined—this will enhance the flavor throughout your dough.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and nutmeg. Combining these dry ingredients separately helps ensure they blend evenly into the dough later.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry mix to the wet ingredients in several additions. Beat gently after each addition while scraping down the sides of the bowl. Once everything is well mixed together, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough for easier handling.

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Mixture

While your dough chills, mix together sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This will be used to roll your cookie balls before baking—adding an extra layer of sweetness!

Step 7: Shape Your Cookies

Remove the chilled dough from the fridge. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Then roll each ball in your prepared sugar/cinnamon mixture before placing them on lined baking sheets with about an inch apart.

Step 8: Bake Your Cookies

Gently press each cookie down with a spoon or your palm before sliding them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until just slightly browned at the edges—this ensures they stay soft inside!

Step 9: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

Once baked cookies have cooled completely, it’s time to whip up that delicious cream cheese frosting! In a bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and salt before gradually mixing in powdered sugar until creamy.

Step 10: Frost Your Cookies

Spread that luscious cream cheese frosting over each cooled pumpkin cookie generously! To finish off with a flourish, sprinkle additional cinnamon on top for that perfect touch.

Now you’re ready to share these delightful Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with everyone around you! Enjoy every bite as you relish this beautiful fall treat!

Pro Tips for Making Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Baking is a joy, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your pumpkin sugar cookies turn out soft, delicious, and utterly irresistible!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures that the butter mixes well with the sugar, creating a creamy texture that’s essential for soft cookies.

• Don’t skip refrigerating the dough: Allowing the dough to chill for 30 minutes helps to firm it up, making it easier to shape and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

• Check for doneness carefully: Since these cookies are soft and pale in color, look for very slightly browned edges as your cue that they’re done. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice can bring an exciting twist to the flavor profile.

• Store properly: To keep your cookies soft longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

These delightful pumpkin sugar cookies are perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just enjoying a cozy evening at home, here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top adds an extra hint of warmth and aroma that complements the pumpkin flavor.

• Chopped nuts: Consider adding finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for a crunchy texture contrast.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: This classic fall beverage pairs wonderfully with sweet pumpkin cookies, enhancing their flavors while keeping you warm and cozy.

• Pumpkin spice latte: A creamy latte infused with pumpkin spice creates a delightful pairing; both treats celebrate the essence of autumn.

• Creamy vanilla ice cream: For an indulgent treat, serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the freshly baked cookies.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy every bite of your soft pumpkin sugar cookies this season.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store or freeze them for later. Here’s how to keep your cookies fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate the cookies to extend freshness by another week.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the completely cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, frost the cookies after thawing.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

What makes these Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies so soft?

The combination of butter and pumpkin puree keeps these cookies incredibly moist and tender, ensuring each bite melts in your mouth.

Can I modify the Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences as well.

How long do Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to 5 days at room temperature or even longer if refrigerated.

Is there a dairy-free option for the frosting?

Yes! You can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use vegan butter for a delightful frosting that remains creamy and delicious.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies as I am! They truly embody the essence of fall with their warm spices and sweet flavor. Enjoy baking these delightful treats with family or friends, and let each bite bring joy to your day. Happy baking!