Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies: A Cozy Fall Treat

As the weather turns cooler and the leaves begin to change, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices to usher in the fall season. These Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are the perfect way to enjoy the cozy flavors of autumn. With a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich cream cheese frosting, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. They’re easy to make and ideal for sharing, whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/3 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For Rolling:

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Directions

1. Make the Cookies

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Wet Ingredients:
   Add 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 large egg, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat on low speed until well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/3 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg.
5. Combine and Chill:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in a few additions, mixing on low speed after each addition until fully combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
   Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

2. Roll and Bake

1. Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture:
   While the dough is chilling, prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture for rolling. In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Set aside.
2. Shape the Dough:
   Once the dough has chilled, scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Then, roll the ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat it evenly.
3. Bake the Cookies:
   Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Gently press down on each dough ball with a spoon or your palm to slightly flatten them.
   Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to brown slightly.
   Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheets.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter:
   In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 4 tablespoons of softened butter, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Powdered Sugar:
   Gradually add 2 1/2 cups of powdered sugar, beating on low speed until fully incorporated. Once all the sugar is added, increase the speed to medium and beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

4. Frost and Serve

1. Frost the Cookies:
   Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie.
2. Optional Garnish:
   For an extra touch, sprinkle the frosted cookies with a little additional cinnamon.
3. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

These Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall. The combination of warm spices and creamy frosting makes them irresistible, while the soft, pillowy texture keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or enjoying them on your own, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour, 2 minutes (including chilling time)
Calories: 220 kcal | Servings: 24 cookies

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