Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to celebrate pumpkin season, then you’ve found it! This Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is one that has been passed down and cherished in my family. The cookies are soft, tender, and bursting with warm spices that will wrap you in a cozy embrace. Whether it’s a chilly fall afternoon or a festive gathering with friends and family, these cookies are sure to put smiles on everyone’s faces.

What makes this recipe so special is not just the delicious flavor but also how easy they are to make. Kids can get involved too, making it a perfect project for busy weeknights or weekends. Plus, they’re fantastic for sharing at potlucks or enjoying during movie nights at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have these cookies baked in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves these soft pumpkin sugar cookies—kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake when you’re ready.
• Delicious flavor: The perfect blend of pumpkin and spices makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these wonderful cookies. Each one adds its unique touch to the overall flavor, making them extra special!

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 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 customize your cookies:

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in some dark or dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
• Include nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
• Change up the frosting: Try a maple cream cheese frosting for an autumnal twist.
• Make them spiced: Add more spices like cloves or allspice for an extra kick of warmth.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350F. This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly as soon as they’re ready to go in.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until creamy using an electric mixer. This step is crucial as it creates air pockets that help your cookies rise and gives them that fluffy texture we love.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together on low speed until combined. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor while keeping your cookies soft.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and nutmeg. Mixing them separately ensures that all ingredients are evenly distributed before combining with the wet mixture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed. It’s important to scrape down the sides of the bowl as you go to ensure everything is well combined. Once mixed, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes—this helps firm up the dough.

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Mixture

While your dough chills, mix together granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl for rolling later on. This simple step adds an extra layer of flavor to each cookie.

Step 7: Shape Your Cookies

Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Scoop about 2 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; they will spread slightly while baking.

Step 8: Bake Them Up

Lightly press each ball down using your palm or a spoon before baking. Pop them into the oven for about 10-12 minutes or until their edges are just slightly browned. Keep an eye on them—they bake quickly!

Step 9: Cool Down & Make Frosting

Once baked, let your pumpkin sugar cookies cool completely before making your cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

Step 10: Frost Your Cookies

Finally, add powdered sugar to your frosting mixture and beat until creamy! Spread it generously on top of each cooled cookie and sprinkle with additional cinnamon if desired.

Enjoy these delightful treats any time of year! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering—and maybe even become a new family favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these simple tips, you’ll achieve the perfect soft pumpkin sugar cookies every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with butter, eggs, and cream cheese at room temperature ensures they mix together smoothly, resulting in a light and fluffy cookie.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes not only helps to firm it up but also intensifies the flavors, making your cookies even more delicious.

• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven—this will help maintain that soft texture.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste! Adding a little more cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor and make these cookies truly your own.

• Consider using different toppings: While cream cheese frosting is a classic choice, you can also try drizzling caramel or chocolate sauce over the cookies for an extra special treat.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Once your cookies are baked and frosted, it’s all about presentation! Here are some fun ideas for serving them that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon over each cookie adds an aromatic touch and enhances the fall flavor profile.
• Chopped nuts: Consider topping the frosted cookies with finely chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and richness.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: The warm spices in apple cider complement the pumpkin cookies perfectly, making for a cozy fall pairing.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside these cookies creates a delightful contrast between warm and cold.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or cranberries adds brightness to your dessert spread.
• Coffee or chai tea: Pairing these cookies with a cup of coffee or spiced chai brings out their flavors beautifully while creating a comforting afternoon treat.

Enjoy baking and sharing these scrumptious soft pumpkin sugar cookies this season!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy days or festive gatherings. You can easily store them or even freeze the dough for later use!

Storing Leftovers

• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to 1 week.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe that might help you out!

Can I make these Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it. Just remember to let it chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.

How should I store the Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies after baking?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh for several days!

What can I substitute if I don’t have pumpkin puree?

You can use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute if you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand. It will keep the cookies moist and delicious!

Can I freeze these Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies?

Yes, these cookies freeze beautifully! Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies! With their delightful flavor and soft texture, they’re sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them solo with a cup of tea, may each bite remind you of cozy autumn days. Happy baking!