Name: Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 3/4 cup pumpkin puree; 1 egg yolk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Soft, spiced, and topped with silky cream cheese frosting, these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are the ultimate fall treat. Imagine a cookie that’s like biting into a pumpkin pie cloud—fluffy, warmly spiced, and just sweet enough to feel indulgent without going overboard. The creamy tang of the frosting brings it all together in a melt-in-your-mouth finish that makes them impossible to resist.

Perfect for autumn gatherings, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or a cozy night in with a warm drink, these cookies are as photogenic as they are delicious. The pumpkin not only adds flavor but gives the cookies a beautiful orange hue and pillowy texture. Whether you’re a pumpkin fanatic or just dipping your toe into fall baking, this recipe is an easy crowd-pleaser.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into mixing bowls and measuring cups, it helps to have the right tools on hand:

Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Essential for creaming the butter and sugar together to create that soft, light cookie texture.
Mixing Bowls: At least two—one for dry ingredients and another for wet—to keep your ingredients properly combined.
Cookie Scoop: Ensures even cookie size, which helps with consistent baking.

Baking Sheets: Use light-colored sheets for even baking without overly browned bottoms.
Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
Cooling Rack: Allows cookies to cool completely before frosting, which is crucial for perfect frosting texture.

Offset Spatula or Piping Bag: For spreading or piping the cream cheese frosting with precision and style.

With these tools, you’re not just baking—you’re setting yourself up for cookie perfection.

Ingredients for the Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Every ingredient in this fall-favorite cookie has a specific job to do, ensuring your results are soft, flavorful, and just sweet enough:

Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and the base for creaming. It also ensures the cookies are tender.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps with the structure of the cookie.
Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of molasses flavor and keeps the cookies moist and chewy.

Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show! Brings flavor, color, and a soft texture.
Egg Yolk: Adds richness without thinning the dough too much.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the spice and sweet flavors.

All-Purpose Flour: The structural backbone that balances wet ingredients.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Gives the cookies their lift.
Pumpkin Pie Spice & Cinnamon: Adds warm, cozy flavor in every bite.

Salt: Enhances all the sweet and spiced flavors.
Cream Cheese: Used in the frosting for that tangy, smooth contrast.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting while keeping it fluffy.

Butter (for frosting): Adds richness to balance the tang of cream cheese.

How To Make the Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Base

In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This creates a soft texture and incorporates air for lift.

Step 2: Mix in the Flavor

Add in the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt.

Step 4: Create the Dough

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Use a cookie scoop to portion dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently press down to flatten slightly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until set but still soft.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully before frosting.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and a dash of vanilla extract, beating until creamy and spreadable.

Step 8: Frost with Flair

Spread or pipe the frosting onto the completely cooled cookies using an offset spatula or piping bag. Optionally, sprinkle with a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish.

Serving and Storing Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These cookies are made for sharing—or savoring all by yourself with a mug of something warm. Serve them chilled or at room temperature for the best texture contrast between the soft cookie and the luscious frosting. They’re especially delightful with a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin spice on top for a bit of flair.

To store, keep the cookies in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If stacking is necessary, place parchment paper between the layers. You can also freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months. Just thaw, frost, and enjoy when ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent excess spreading, especially if your kitchen is warm.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s thick and not too watery. Excess moisture can change the dough’s texture.

Is it possible to make them gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Results may vary slightly in texture but they still taste great.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes. You can refrigerate the frosting for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature and give it a quick whip before using.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can easily make your own by mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of cloves.

Do these cookies need to be refrigerated?

Because of the cream cheese frosting, it’s best to refrigerate them unless you plan to serve within a couple of hours.

If you love these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll probably enjoy these other cozy favorites from Life With Olivia:

• Whipped Shortbread Cookies — light, buttery bites that melt in your mouth.
• Carrot Pound Cake with Vanilla Glaze — not a cookie, but a cousin in flavor and texture.
• Tiramisu Cupcakes — espresso-infused indulgence in cupcake form.
• Brownie Mix Cookies — for a rich chocolate twist that’s incredibly easy.
• Coconut Snowballs — festive, no-bake treats with a snowy finish.

Save This Recipe for Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add a sprinkle of nutmeg or swirl on the frosting with a piping tip? Maybe you gave them a maple glaze twist?

I love seeing how others bring my recipes to life in their own kitchens. Questions are welcome too—let’s bake smarter together.

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 32 minutes

Yield: 24 cookies
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are soft, warmly spiced, and frosted with the perfect tangy-sweet cream cheese layer. Ideal for cozy fall gatherings or simply indulging at home, these cookies offer a perfect balance of comfort and charm.