Soft Pumpkin Cookies

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With their pillowy texture and rich cream cheese frosting, they make for a wonderful dessert at any gathering or celebration. Whether you’re hosting a cozy autumn get-together or simply craving something sweet, these cookies will surely impress with their delicious flavor and soft bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies plain, with cream cheese frosting, or topped with festive sprinkles for a fun twist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These Soft Pumpkin Cookies are ideal for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving feasts, or just a cozy evening at home.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates an irresistible taste that captures the spirit of fall.
• Make Ahead Option: Bake in advance and store them in an airtight container to enjoy later, keeping your treats fresh and ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving the perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl helps combine ingredients thoroughly for a smooth cookie dough.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for optimal fluffiness.
• Baking sheet: A heavy-duty baking sheet ensures even baking, preventing cookies from burning on the bottom.

Ingredients

These delicious Soft Pumpkin Cookies require simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Gather everything you need before starting.

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 15oz can pumpkin puree (approximately 1 cup minus 2 tablespoons)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

For the Frosting

• 4 oz softened cream cheese (make sure to sit it out in advance to come to a softened consistency)
• 3 tbsp softened butter
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• pinch salt (optional)

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the egg, pure vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Use a cookie scoop to portion out dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each cookie as they will spread during baking.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 12–15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cooling on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While cookies cool, beat together softened cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar followed by vanilla extract and optional pinch of salt. Mix until creamy.

Step 9: Frost Cookies

Once cookies are completely cooled, generously frost each cookie with cream cheese frosting using a spatula or piping bag. Enjoy your delicious Soft Pumpkin Cookies!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Soft Pumpkin Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just indulging yourself, these cookies offer versatility that makes them a favorite among dessert lovers.

With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Rich and creamy frosting pairs perfectly with the soft texture of the cookies, enhancing their pumpkin flavor.

Add Sprinkles

• Colorful sprinkles add a festive touch, making these cookies perfect for parties or holidays.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your Soft Pumpkin Cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.

Use as Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two Soft Pumpkin Cookies for an irresistible dessert experience.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top adds an extra layer of creaminess and sweetness.

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How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies

To achieve the ultimate softness in your Soft Pumpkin Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensures even mixing and contributes to a better texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Mixing just until combined keeps the cookies tender and fluffy.
• Chill the dough briefly – Letting the dough rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes can improve flavor and texture.
• Measure flour correctly – Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies; too much flour can lead to dryness.
• Bake until just set – Remove from the oven when they are slightly underbaked for maximum softness.
• Store properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Soft Pumpkin Cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spiced Apple Cider – A warm drink that pairs beautifully with the spices in the cookies.
2. Maple Glazed Pecans – Sweet and crunchy nuts that provide a delightful contrast to soft textures.
3. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup – This savory dish offers a lovely balance to the sweetness of pumpkin cookies.
4. Cheddar Cheese Scones – The sharpness of cheese contrasts nicely with sweet flavors, creating an interesting pairing.
5. Caramel Dipping Sauce – Drizzle this over your cookies for an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress.
6. Fresh Fruit Salad – A refreshing option that lightens up your dessert spread while adding color and nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Soft Pumpkin Cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense texture instead of soft and fluffy cookies.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of soft pumpkin cookies.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon and level method when measuring flour. Adding too much flour can make your cookies dry.
• Skipping the spices: Don’t overlook the importance of spices like cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice. They add warmth and depth to your cookies’ flavor.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. Overbaking will lead to cookies that aren’t soft and chewy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Soft Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to one week.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Cookies

• Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds. Watch closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Soft Pumpkin Cookies.

How do I make my Soft Pumpkin Cookies even softer?

Adding an extra tablespoon of pumpkin puree can enhance moisture and softness in your cookies.

Can I use a different frosting for my Soft Pumpkin Cookies?

Yes! While cream cheese frosting is popular, you can experiment with chocolate ganache or vanilla buttercream for variety.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can easily make your own by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice in equal parts!

How long do Soft Pumpkin Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies last up to one week in the fridge or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings or mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Whether for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home, they’re sure to bring joy and comfort. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite!