Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

The Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is the ultimate treat for pumpkin lovers! These delightful cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with seasonal flavors. Perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations, this recipe will be a hit with both kids and adults alike. The warm spices and creamy frosting make these cookies stand out, ensuring they will be a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: These cookies combine the sweetness of pumpkin with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a comforting taste.
• Easy to Make: The step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice bakers can whip up these delicious treats without any hassle.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, holidays, or simply as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
• Frosted Delight: The cream cheese frosting adds a rich and creamy texture that complements the soft cookies perfectly.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Baking these cookies can be a fun activity for kids. They’ll love rolling the dough and decorating their own cookies!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Before you start making your Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies, gather the necessary equipment.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: This tool speeds up the creaming process, giving your dough a light and fluffy texture.
• Baking sheets: Quality baking sheets ensure even cooking of your cookies while preventing sticking.

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Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 cup 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;
– ⅓ cup granulated sugar (for rolling);
– ½ tsp cinnamon (for rolling);
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened;
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened;
– ½ tsp vanilla extract (for frosting);
– ¼ tsp salt (for frosting);
– 2 ½ cups powdered sugar.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together the softened butter and sugar until creamy. This should take about two minutes.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Beat at low speed until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and nutmeg. Stir well to ensure that all dry ingredients are mixed evenly.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

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

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Mixture for Rolling

While the dough is chilling, mix together ⅓ cup granulated sugar and ½ tsp cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside for later use.

Step 7: Form Cookie Dough Balls

Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball using your hands.

Step 8: Roll in Sugar Mixture

Roll each dough ball in the sugar/cinnamon mixture until fully coated. Place them on two baking sheets lined with parchment paper, leaving about an inch between each cookie.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Use a spoon or your palm to press each cookie down slightly. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are just lightly browned.

Step 10: Cool Cookies

Remove from oven and let cool completely on baking sheets before adding frosting.

Step 11: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

In a bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to mix until creamy.

Step 12: Frost Cookies

Spread cream cheese frosting over each cooled pumpkin cookie. Sprinkle with additional cinnamon if desired before serving!

Enjoy your delicious Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

These delicious Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season. Here are some fun and creative ways to serve them.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee or Tea: Pair these cookies with a cup of hot coffee or herbal tea for a cozy treat.
• Apple Cider: The sweet and spiced flavor of apple cider complements the pumpkin perfectly.

At a Festive Gathering

• Serve on a Platter: Arrange cookies on a decorative platter for parties or gatherings to impress your guests.
• Cookie Sandwiches: Spread cream cheese frosting between two cookies for an extra indulgent treat.

As a Dessert Option

• With Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies alongside vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delightful dessert combination.
• Drizzled with Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.

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: Allow butter, eggs, and cream cheese to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps prevent spreading while baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking; remove them when the edges are slightly browned for soft centers.
• Store Properly: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness, or freeze for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here’s a list of great options.

1. Spiced Chai Latte: A warm beverage that pairs well with the cookie’s spices, adding comfort and warmth.
2. Pumpkin Soup: A smooth, creamy pumpkin soup can enhance the pumpkin flavor theme in your meal.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese; they balance the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a light contrast to the richness of the pumpkin cookies.
5. Roasted Nuts: Spiced roasted nuts offer a crunchy texture that complements the soft cookie well.
6. Sweet Potato Mash: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes aligns with pumpkin flavors, creating a harmonious pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making soft pumpkin sugar cookies can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Boldly skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial for texture. If you skip this step, your cookies may spread too much while baking.
• Boldly overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined after adding dry ingredients for a softer texture.
• Boldly ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients can affect how well they combine. Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for best results.
• Boldly neglecting oven temperature accuracy: Oven temperatures can vary. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your cookies bake evenly and achieve the desired softness.
• Boldly not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure accurately.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially.
• Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Boldly using the Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes.
• Boldly using the Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Boldly using the Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the soft pumpkin sugar cookies recipe:

What makes these Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies so delicious?

These cookies are soft due to the perfect balance of moist pumpkin puree and butter, making them rich and flavorful.

Can I customize this Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even different spices like cloves for a unique twist.

How should I store leftover Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

What is the best way to frost these Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies?

A cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with these cookies, enhancing their flavor. Just remember to frost once they are completely cooled!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute with whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Start with half whole wheat and half all-purpose if you’re unsure!

Final Thoughts

This soft pumpkin sugar cookies recipe is perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave something sweet and comforting. With its delightful blend of spices and creamy frosting, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Feel free to customize your batch with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for extra fun!