Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, then this Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is just what you need! These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with warm spices that make them perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to cozy family gatherings. I love how they fill the house with a sweet aroma, creating memories that linger long after the last bite. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or sharing them with loved ones, these pumpkin cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

What makes this recipe extra special is not only its delicious flavor but also how easy it is to whip up! You can make a big batch in no time, making it a fantastic option for potlucks and parties. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these tasty treats.
• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and ingredients, anyone can make these cookies!
• Make-ahead convenience: The dough can be refrigerated ahead of time, perfect for busy schedules.
• Deliciously spiced: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting flavor.
• Perfectly frosted: Topped with cream cheese frosting, these cookies are irresistibly good.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These cookies are made from simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you need to create these delightful Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies!

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 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 variations to consider:

• Add nuts: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Change the spice: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique twist.
• Chocolate chip boost: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Frosting twist: Swap out the cream cheese frosting for a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and plant-based milk.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step 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 process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps make your cookies light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Egg

Next, add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat on low speed until combined. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor—an essential component of this Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and nutmeg. Mixing dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution when combined with wet ingredients.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in several additions. Beat at low speed after each addition while scraping down the sides of the bowl. This helps achieve a smooth dough without overmixing!

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Cover your dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking and enhances flavor.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture

While waiting for the dough to chill, mix together granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This mixture will give your cookies a delightful sweet crunch.

Step 8: Shape Your Cookies

Once chilled, scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into balls. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them on baking sheets lined with parchment paper—leaving about an inch between each cookie.

Step 9: Bake Them Up!

Gently press each ball down slightly using your palm or a spoon. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are just slightly browned. Keep an eye on them; they should look soft but set!

Step 10: Cool Down & Make Frosting

After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on wire racks while you prepare the cream cheese frosting.

Step 11: Frost Your Cookies

In a separate bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Gradually add powdered sugar until smooth. Spread this creamy goodness over each cooled cookie!

Step 12: Enjoy!

Sprinkle additional cinnamon on top if desired. Now take a moment to admire your work before indulging in these scrumptious Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies! Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself—no judgment here!

Pro Tips for Making Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Creating the perfect batch of pumpkin sugar cookies can be a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature allows for better mixing and a smoother dough, resulting in soft and fluffy cookies.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes helps it firm up, making it easier to handle and preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

• Don’t overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is different! Start checking your cookies at the 10-minute mark and remove them when the edges are slightly browned; they will continue cooking as they cool.

• Store properly: To keep your cookies soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also layer them with parchment paper if you’re stacking them to prevent sticking.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

These delightful pumpkin sugar cookies can be presented beautifully for any occasion! Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or an elegant autumn party, you’ll want to make them shine.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top of each cookie adds a warm spice touch that complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly.
• Chopped nuts: Finely chopped pecans or walnuts can provide a lovely crunch while enhancing the fall flavors.
• Chocolate drizzle: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle some melted dairy-free chocolate over the frosted cookies.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: The sweet and spiced flavors of warm apple cider make for a comforting beverage pairing that enhances the cozy vibes of your cookie feast.
• Vanilla bean ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream alongside your warm pumpkin cookies creates a delicious contrast in temperatures and textures.
• Autumn salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, dried cranberries, and candied pecans offers a bright and tangy complement to the rich sweetness of the cookies.
• Caramel popcorn: The crunchy sweetness of caramel popcorn provides a fun contrast and makes for an enjoyable snack alongside your pumpkin treats.

Enjoy these soft pumpkin sugar cookies with friends and family this season; they’re sure to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness throughout the week or share them with friends and family during the festive season.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week.
• Always ensure they are completely cooled before storing to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• You can also microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I make Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup). Both options will help bind the ingredients while keeping your cookies soft.

How do I know when my Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is done baking?

Your cookies are done when the edges start to turn very lightly golden. Remember that they will continue to firm up as they cool, so it’s best to take them out of the oven slightly underbaked for that perfect soft texture.

What can I use instead of pumpkin puree in this Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe?

If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can use mashed sweet potatoes or butternut squash as great substitutes. They provide similar moisture and sweetness, ensuring your cookies remain delicious!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies as much as I do! They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall and create special moments with loved ones. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and have fun in the kitchen! I can’t wait for you to taste these yummy cookies!