Name: Soft Pumpkin Cookies: Irresistibly Chewy Autumn Treats
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 102 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Swap for gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Acts as a leavening agent.); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Adds warm autumn flavor.); 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 0.25 teaspoon ground cloves (Omit for less intensity.); 0.5 teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness.); 0.5 cups unsalted butter (Can use dairy-free for vegan.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Brown sugar adds depth.); 1 cup pumpkin puree (Avoid using pumpkin pie filling.); 1 large egg (A flax egg works for vegan alternative.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 ounces cream cheese (Swap for Neufchâtel for lighter version.); 2 cups powdered sugar (Less sugar yields less sweet treat.); 2 tablespoons milk (Use alternative milk for vegan.)

As the leaves start to dance in the crisp autumn air, I find myself rummaging through my kitchen for comforting recipes that capture the season’s essence. Enter my Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting – they are divine little bites that effortlessly embody fall. With their tender, chewy texture and a harmonious blend of warm spices, these cookies are a celebration of everything we love about pumpkin season. What’s more, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Whether you’re cozying up at home or hosting a gathering with friends, these cookies are sure to charm everyone around the table. Curious how to make these delicious fall treats yours? Let’s get started!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Melt-in-your-mouth texture: These Soft Pumpkin Cookies are perfectly chewy, making each bite feel like a warm hug.
Autumn spice blend: The harmonious mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a rich flavor profile that encapsulates fall.
Decadent cream cheese frosting: Topped with velvety frosting, the sweetness perfectly balances the spiced cookie for a truly delightful treat.
Endless variations: Personalize your cookies by adding chocolate chips or experimenting with unique spices like cardamom or ginger to find your favorite flavor.
Quick and simple: With straightforward instructions, these cookies are ideal for bakers of all skill levels and make great last-minute additions to any gathering.
If you’re looking for more comforting treats, check out these Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies or Bakery Style Cookies.

Soft Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients

• Here’s everything you’ll need to create these soft pumpkin cookies from scratch!

For the Cookie Batter

All-purpose flour – Provides structure; swap for gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent for light, fluffy cookies.
Ground cinnamon – Adds that warm autumn flavor; consider pumpkin pie spice for variety.
Ground nutmeg – Enhances the cozy, spiced profile of the cookies.
Ground cloves – Offers a distinctive spiced aroma; omit for less intensity.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Unsalted butter – Contributes richness and moisture; use dairy-free butter for a vegan touch.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps achieve the perfect texture; brown sugar adds moisture and depth.
Pumpkin puree – Keeps the cookies moist while imparting delightful flavor; avoid using pumpkin pie filling.
Egg – Binds the ingredients together for a perfect consistency; a flax egg works for a vegan alternative.
Vanilla extract – Elevates the overall flavor profile of the cookies.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese – The star of the frosting, adding a tangy twist; swap for Neufchâtel cream cheese for a lighter version.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens and adds smoothness to the frosting; less sugar can yield a less sweet treat.
Milk (or heavy cream) – Adjusts the frosting’s thickness; omit for a thicker consistency or use alternative milk for vegan.

With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating wonderfully soft pumpkin cookies that are sure to captivate your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until evenly mixed. This step is essential for distributing the leavening agents and spices, ensuring your Soft Pumpkin Cookies have a consistent flavor and rise. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes. The goal is to incorporate air into the butter, which will create a tender texture in your Soft Pumpkin Cookies.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until all the ingredients are well combined and smooth. This wet mixture adds richness and moisture to the cookies, giving them that delightful softness.

Step 4: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula or a spoon. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to tough cookies. You want the dough to be soft and slightly sticky, perfect for your Soft Pumpkin Cookies.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours. Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, helping retain their soft, chewy texture.

Step 6: Preheat Oven
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your Soft Pumpkin Cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the trays.

Step 7: Shape Cookies
Once chilled, scoop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The dough should hold its shape; this will ensure your cookies are nicely round and have a delightful thickness after baking.

Step 8: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft. Keep an eye on them; overbaking can dry out your Soft Pumpkin Cookies.

Step 9: Cool Cookies
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period allows the cookies to firm up slightly while still retaining their soft, chewy texture.

Step 10: Prepare Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add in powdered sugar while continuing to mix, and then incorporate milk to reach the desired frosting consistency. This deliciously creamy frosting complements the spiced flavors of the Soft Pumpkin Cookies beautifully.

Step 11: Frost Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, generously frost the tops with your cream cheese frosting and consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or chocolate chips for extra flair. The creamy and tangy frosting will elevate your Soft Pumpkin Cookies to the next level of deliciousness.

Step 12: Serve
Enjoy your freshly baked Soft Pumpkin Cookies either immediately or store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They make for a cozy treat alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea, perfect for sharing with friends and family during the beautiful fall season.

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough and chill it for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. To do this, simply combine the ingredients as directed, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you want to take it a step further, you can also shape the cookies on the baking sheet, freeze them, and then bake them straight from the freezer within 3 days. When ready to serve, just bake the cookies directly from the fridge or freezer until golden, ensuring they remain just as delicious and chewy as fresh-baked cookies!

Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Chill the Dough: Refrigerating your dough prevents spreading, resulting in fluffy cookies. Don’t skip this step for the best Soft Pumpkin Cookies!
Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your butter and cream cheese to room temperature ensures a smoother frosting. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix your ingredients until just combined to prevent tough cookies. This keeps your Soft Pumpkin Cookies soft and chewy.
Taste Test the Spices: Adjust the spice levels to your preference. Fewer spices for milder flavor, or more for a bolder taste, it’s all about your unique touch!
Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Always use pure pumpkin puree instead of pie filling for an authentic flavor; it makes a world of difference in your cookies.
Decorate with Joy: Get creative with your frosting! Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or mini chocolate chips on top for a festive and delicious finish.

What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies?

Savor the warmth of autumn with delightful pairings that enhance the cozy flavors of these treasured cookies.

Cold Milk: Perfectly complements the spices, providing a refreshing balance to the creaminess of the frosting.
Hot Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee contrast beautifully with the soft sweetness of the cookies, making each bite a comforting experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream elevates the cozy cookie, creating a delightful fusion of flavors and temperatures.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai will echo the warm notes of the cookies, creating a harmonious sip alongside your sweet treat.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season by pairing your cookies with this delightful coffee drink, enhancing the pumpkin essence in every bite.
Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider adds a festive vibe and a hint of tartness that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Caramel Sauce Dip: Drizzling these cookies with silky caramel sauce creates an indulgent flavor dimension that’s simply irresistible.
Cheese Platter: A mix of creamy cheeses brings a savory contrast to the dessert, enriching the overall experience during gatherings.
Chocolate Chai Cookies: For a playful twist, serve with a side of chocolate chai cookies to explore blending flavors and spices in delightful bites.

How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Fridge: Store your Soft Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and moist. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Dough: You can prepare the cookie dough in advance, chill it for up to 24 hours, and scoop it onto baking sheets for fresh cookies whenever you wish.

Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their soft, chewy texture before serving.

Soft Pumpkin Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and make these Soft Pumpkin Cookies your own with these delightful twists and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with dairy-free butter and cream cheese with a vegan alternative for a delicious vegan treat.
Chocolate Lovers: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, sweet contrast to the spiced cookies. It’s the perfect blend of flavors!
Spice It Up: Experiment with cardamom or ground ginger to elevate the spice profile. A dash of nutmeg can also add a unique warmth.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture. The added nuttiness enhances every bite.
Pumpkin Spice Cookies: Use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices to create an easier and just-as-delicious alternative.
Frosting Variations: Mix in a splash of maple syrup with the cream cheese frosting for a sweet and earthy flavor that goes perfectly with the pumpkin.
Fruit Twist: Fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy, fruity addition that brightens the flavors!
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use these cookies to create irresistible ice cream sandwiches; simply add a scoop of your favorite flavor between two cookies!

For even more delicious cookie inspiration, don’t miss out on our Peanut Butter Cookies or Blueberry Cookies Vegan to discover new flavor combos that will spice up your baking repertoire!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely, for the best results, use pure pumpkin puree! This keeps the cookies moist and flavorful. Make sure to avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can alter the taste of your cookies.

How should I store these cookies, and how long will they last?
Store your Soft Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps them maintain their fresh, soft texture. If you’d like to keep them for a longer period, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Can I freeze the cookies, and if so, how?
Of course! To freeze your Soft Pumpkin Cookies, first allow them to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the cookies to a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.

What if my dough is too sticky to manage?
No worries, this sometimes happens! If your cookie dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes. If it’s still too sticky, you can add a bit more flour (one tablespoon at a time) while mixing until it’s manageable, but be careful not to overmix to keep your cookies soft.

Can I adjust the spices in these cookies?
Very much so! I encourage you to tailor the spice levels to your taste. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the ground cinnamon or nutmeg. Alternatively, if you enjoy a richer spice profile, try adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice for a unique twist.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan version, use dairy-free butter, a flax egg in place of the regular egg, and plant-based milk in your frosting. The result will be just as delicious and accommodating for dietary needs.