Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

The Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe is a delightful treat perfect for pumpkin season. These cookies are soft and chewy, making them a favorite among kids and adults alike. With their warm spices and creamy frosting, they are an ideal choice for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a cozy evening at home. Enjoy the comforting flavors of fall in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm and inviting taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies can be enjoyed on their own or dressed up with cream cheese frosting for special occasions.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 36 servings, this recipe is great for parties or family gatherings, ensuring there’s enough for everyone.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the little ones in the baking process; they’ll enjoy rolling the dough balls and sprinkling the cinnamon sugar!

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smoother, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to achieve a creamy texture when combining butter and sugar.
• Baking sheets: Ensure even baking and easy transfer of cookies in batches.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

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Ingredients

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 Cinnamon 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

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 granulated sugar until creamy.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat at low speed until all ingredients are well combined. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and nutmeg. Mix well to ensure even distribution of spices.

Step 5: Mix Dry into Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Beat on low speed after each addition to combine thoroughly. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Mixture

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

Step 7: Shape Cookies

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

Step 8: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

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

Step 9: Flatten Slightly

Gently press each cookie down using a spoon or your palm to flatten slightly.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.

Step 11: Cool & Frost

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool completely before preparing frosting. In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until fully incorporated.

Step 12: Decorate

Spread cream cheese frosting generously on top of each cooled cookie. Sprinkle with additional cinnamon if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Soft pumpkin sugar cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Hot Coffee or Tea: Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Spiced Chai Latte: The spices in chai complement the flavors of the cookies perfectly, creating a warming treat.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment: Serve alongside other seasonal cookies for a beautiful dessert platter at gatherings.
• Fruit Garnish: Add slices of fresh apples or pears to the platter for a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies.

For Special Occasions

• Birthday Celebrations: Decorate cookies with colorful frosting and sprinkles for festive birthday treats.
• Holiday Gatherings: Present them on decorative trays during holiday parties to impress your guests.

How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

To ensure your soft pumpkin sugar cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and prevents spreading during baking.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the scoop and level method to avoid dense cookies caused by too much flour.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
• Bake in Batches: If you have multiple trays, bake them one at a time for even cooking and optimal texture.
• Store Properly: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness for several days.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Soft pumpkin sugar cookies pair well with various side dishes that can enhance their flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cream Cheese Dip: A sweet cream cheese dip adds extra richness and is easy to make by mixing softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla.
2. Apple Slices with Caramel Sauce: The sweetness of apples drizzled with caramel complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
3. Roasted Nuts: A mix of spiced roasted nuts offers a crunchy contrast against the soft texture of the cookies.
4. Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream: Serve alongside rich pumpkin spice ice cream for an indulgent fall dessert experience.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and sliced fruit for a light side that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
6. Cheese Board: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda along with honey and dried fruits for an upscale pairing option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes helps the cookies hold their shape and improves texture. Don’t skip this step!
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for best results.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cookies dry. Use a spoon to scoop flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Oven temperatures can vary. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Underbaking: Baking for too short a time may leave cookies doughy in the center. Look for slight browning at the edges as a sign they are ready.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will keep fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

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

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe that many home bakers ask.

Can I use pumpkin spice instead of individual spices?

Yes, you can use pumpkin spice as a substitute! Just replace the cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg with an equal amount of pumpkin spice.

How do I make these cookies dairy-free?

To make dairy-free cookies, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use dairy-free cream cheese for frosting.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! For a delicious twist, fold in some chocolate chips into the dough before chilling.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months if frozen.

What is the best way to decorate these cookies?

You can use cream cheese frosting as given in the recipe or dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish!

Final Thoughts

These Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Their soft texture and delightful spices make them irresistible. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips. Enjoy baking these treats!