Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

The Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is the perfect treat for pumpkin season, delighting both kids and adults alike. With their soft texture and warm spices, these cookies are ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to festive celebrations. The unique blend of flavors will make them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a delightful flavor that captures the essence of fall.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies can be enjoyed on their own or dressed up with cream cheese frosting for a special touch.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 36 servings, these cookies are great for parties, potlucks, or just sharing with friends and family.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved in rolling the dough and decorating the cookies; it’s a fun way to spend time together in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures that your butter and sugar blend quickly into a creamy mixture without much effort.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, ensuring perfectly baked cookies every time.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 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 Rolling the Cookies

• 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

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F. This ensures your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened butter and sugar until creamy.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat at low speed until fully combined. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and nutmeg.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in a few additions. Beat on low speed after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Mixture

While your dough is chilling, prepare the sugar mixture by mixing together sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 7: Shape Cookie Dough

Remove the dough from refrigeration. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball.

Step 8: Roll in Sugar Mixture

Roll each ball in the sugar/cinnamon mixture before placing them onto two baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Leave about an inch between each cookie.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Press down slightly using a spoon or your palm before baking them in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes or until edges are very lightly browned.

Step 10: Cool Cookies

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool completely on wire racks before frosting.

Step 11: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

In a clean bowl, beat together cream cheese, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt until combined. Gradually add powdered sugar while beating until smooth.

Step 12: Frost Cookies

Spread cream cheese frosting generously over each cooled pumpkin cookie. Finish with a sprinkle of additional cinnamon if desired!

Now you have delicious Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies ready to share! Enjoy their delightful flavors this pumpkin season!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your pumpkin cookie experience.

With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie for added sweetness and a creamy texture.

Garnished with Cinnamon

• Sprinkle additional cinnamon over the frosted cookies for an aromatic touch that complements the pumpkin flavor.

Pair with Hot Beverages

• Serve these cookies alongside warm beverages like chai tea or hot apple cider for a cozy fall experience.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter with other seasonal treats, making them perfect for gatherings or parties.

Gift in Decorative Bags

• Place the cookies in clear bags tied with ribbon as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.

How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

To ensure your Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even mixing.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading while baking.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to dense textures.
• Measure flour accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can make cookies dry.
• Watch baking time closely: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly browned at the edges but still soft in the center.
• Store properly: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies pair well with various side dishes. Here are some ideas that complement their sweetness beautifully.

1. Spiced Chai Latte
   A warm, spiced drink that enhances the flavors of pumpkin and adds cozy vibes.

2. Caramel Apple Slices
   Fresh apple slices drizzled with caramel sauce provide a sweet and crunchy contrast.

3. Cinnamon Hot Chocolate
   Rich chocolate with a hint of cinnamon makes for a comforting beverage choice.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   These add a savory element, balancing out the sweetness of the cookies and offering seasonal flavors.

5. Pumpkin Soup
   A smooth, creamy soup that echoes pumpkin flavors while providing warmth on chilly days.

6. Pecan Pie Bars
   A rich dessert option that pairs well with pumpkin flavors, bringing different textures to your spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and making soft pumpkin sugar cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Using Cold Butter: Cold butter makes it hard to achieve a creamy mixture. Always use room temperature butter for the best texture.
• Skipping the Refrigeration Step: Not refrigerating the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Allowing the dough to chill helps maintain their shape.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can make the cookies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a soft texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can alter the cookie’s outcome. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Ignoring Bake Times: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies and adjust bake times as necessary to prevent over-baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your soft pumpkin sugar cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about soft pumpkin sugar cookies, here are some frequently asked questions.

Can I use other types of flour in this Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe?

You can experiment with gluten-free flour blends or whole wheat flour but expect slight changes in texture and taste.

How do I achieve a softer cookie with this recipe?

Make sure not to overbake your cookies; keep an eye on them and remove them when they’re just set at the edges.

What can I substitute for cream cheese frosting?

You can use a simple vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar and water if you prefer something lighter.

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

Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips would add a delicious contrast to the pumpkin flavor without overpowering it.

How long does it take for these cookies to cool before frosting?

Allow your cookies to cool completely, which usually takes around 30 minutes.

Final Thoughts

These soft pumpkin sugar cookies are perfect for fall gatherings and cozy evenings at home. Their delightful flavor and fluffy texture make them irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even different spices. Enjoy making them!