As September rolls in, I can’t help but be transported to warm kitchens filled with the rich aroma of spices and baked goods. This season always calls for a little something sweet, and there’s nothing quite like indulging in Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies. These cookies marry the warm, comforting taste of pumpkin with just the right touch of cinnamon and nutmeg, all topped off with a luscious cream cheese frosting. They’re a delightful treat for cozy gatherings or simply when you’re craving a taste of fall! The best part? They come together in a snap and are perfect for sharing—I’m sure they’ll become a fast favorite among family and friends. Ready to bring the essence of autumn to your table? Let’s dive into the scrumptious details!

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Unforgettable Flavor: With each bite, you’ll savor the richness of pumpkin combined with warm spices, creating a taste that defines fall.

Easy to Make: The recipe is designed for all skill levels—just mix, bake, and frost.

Customizable Options: From decorative frostings to variations like apple butter, the choices keep it fresh and fun!

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings and celebrations, these cookies are sure to impress guests and family alike!

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can freeze the dough for a last-minute sweet fix, just like my Almond Snowball Cookies or Chocolate Oat Cookies.

Indulge in these Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies, and experience the warmth of fall in every delicious bite!

Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use salted butter for added flavor.
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and enhances chewiness; dark brown sugar recommended for deeper flavor.
• Pumpkin Butter – Infuses a distinct pumpkin flavor; can be substituted with pumpkin puree if needed.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic sweetness for an inviting taste.
• Egg – Acts as a binder for the cookies; room temperature eggs work best for smooth mixing.
• All-Purpose Flour – Essential for the cookie structure; ensures a tender cookie result.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
• Cinnamon – Adds warm spice; swap with pumpkin pie spice for extra autumn flavor.
• Nutmeg – Complements the cinnamon and pumpkin, elevating the cookie’s profile.
• Salt – Balances and enhances sweetness throughout the dough.
• Cinnamon Sugar – Used for rolling the cookies, providing a sweet crust outside.

For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Forms the creamy base; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and contributes to a smooth texture.
• Fall Sprinkles – Optional decoration to add a festive touch and visual appeal to your cookies.

Enjoy baking these Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies and let the essence of autumn fill your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This preparation is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies. Make sure your oven is fully heated before placing the cookies inside for even baking.

Step 2: Make Dough
In a mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of salted butter with 1 cup of dark brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. Next, add ¾ cup of pumpkin butter, 1 room temperature egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, beating until well combined. Gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until the dough forms a soft mixture.

Step 3: Shape Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Then, coat each ball in a mixture of cinnamon sugar for a sweet, spiced crust. Place the rolled cookies on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 3 inches apart to allow for spreading while baking. This step ensures your Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies come out perfectly round and beautifully topped with frosting later.

Step 4: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes, then rotate the baking sheet to ensure even cooking. Continue baking for an additional 3–4 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the centers are slightly puffy. The cookies will look soft and underbaked in the middle, which is perfect for that chewy texture once cooled on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting by beating 4 ounces of room temperature cream cheese with ¼ cup of softened butter in a mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually mix in 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the frosting is light and fluffy. This luscious frosting will be the finishing touch for your Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.

Step 6: Frost Cookies
Once the cookies have completely cooled, generously frost each cookie with the cream cheese frosting using a spatula or a piping bag for decorative swirls. If desired, sprinkle some colorful fall sprinkles on top for a festive touch. Your Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are now ready to delight friends and family with their soft, cozy flavors!

Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these delightful cookies to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!

Apple Butter Swap: Replace pumpkin butter with apple butter for a fruity twist that brightens the autumn flavor.
Vegan Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter, and substitute the egg with flaxseed meal to make these cookies vegan-friendly without losing any deliciousness.
Cheesecake Frosting: Mix cream cheese with a hint of lemon zest for frosting that tastes like cheesecake—it’s a delightful surprise!
Chocolate Chips: Add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a luscious contrast to the pumpkin and spice.
Spiced Pumpkin Blend: Boost the flavor by adding a teaspoon of ginger or cloves to give your cookies an extra layer of warmth and spice.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, ensuring buddies with dietary needs can enjoy these fall favorites too.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch that complements the soft, chewy texture of the cookies.
Lemon Glaze: Instead of frosting, a light lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice can add a zingy kick that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.

Enjoy experimenting with these variations! And if you’re looking for delicious cookie ideas that resonate with the season, you might also love my Lemon Raspberry Cookies and Sugar Cookie Fruit Pizzas. Let your baking journey be flavorful and fun!

Expert Tips for Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This step is crucial for a smooth texture in your Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be soft and slightly underbaked in the center to maintain their chewy texture.
Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky to shape, chill it for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.
Customize Your Frosting: Experiment with different frostings! Substitute cream cheese frosting with vanilla buttercream or add spices for a twist.
Bake in Batches: If baking multiple trays, rotate them halfway through to ensure even baking; this helps every cookie achieve that perfect golden edge!

Make Ahead Options

These Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies are wonderful for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dough, shape it into balls, and refrigerate. The unbaked cookie dough can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. To maintain the cookies’ soft, chewy texture, bake them on the same day they’re made. Once baked and cooled, the cookies can be frosted and stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature, ensuring they remain just as delicious for your gatherings or cozy treats!

How to Store and Freeze Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. Avoid exposure to heat or direct sunlight.

Fridge: If you prefer softer cookies, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: Freeze cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy warm Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies, microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will slightly melt the frosting and enhance the cozy flavors.

What to Serve with Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

The sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for gathering with loved ones.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich cocoa pairs beautifully with the spiced flavors of the cookies, making for a cozy drink to sip on.
Gingerbread Latte: A flavorful blend of coffee, ginger, and spices addresses the warm notes in your cookies while providing a delightful caffeine boost.
Cranberry Salad: This tart and sweet salad brightens your dessert table, balancing the sweetness of the Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies perfectly.
Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider to enhance the autumn theme while its sweetness pairs perfectly with cookie flavors.
Pecan Pie: The nutty richness of pecan pie creates a delightful contrast to the soft pumpkin cookie, making it a festive dessert duo.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle on top for an added layer of flavor that elevates each bite of your cookies and offers a charming presentation.
Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Bars: For an extended pumpkin experience, these bars blend cheesecake and pie, delighting fans of seasonal sweets.
Autumn Fruit Platter: Include apples, pears, and grapes as a refreshing touch—crisp fruits complement the soft cookie texture beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Create a dessert sandwich by pairing warm cookies with creamy vanilla ice cream, merging flavors and textures for a heavenly treat.

Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies, I recommend using pumpkin butter, as it provides a rich and distinct taste. If you can’t find pumpkin butter, pumpkin puree is a suitable alternative. Just be sure to use 100% pure pumpkin, avoiding any spiced versions or mixes containing added sugars.

How long can I store Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies?
You can store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To keep them fresh and chewy, avoid exposing them to heat or sunlight. If you prefer a softer texture, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze the Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze these cookies, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag layered with parchment paper, which prevents sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds for a warm treat.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky to shape?
If your dough turns out sticky, don’t worry! It’s an easy fix. Just cover it and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the dough, making it easier to roll into balls and coat in cinnamon sugar. Alternatively, you can lightly flour your hands while shaping the cookies to curb the stickiness.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Very! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for proper texture. Just like that, you can enjoy delightful Frosted Soft Pumpkin Sugar Cookies without gluten. Always check individual ingredient labels to confirm they’re gluten-free!

Are there any allergies I should be aware of before serving?
You should definitely consider dietary restrictions. The recipe contains common allergens such as wheat, eggs, dairy, and the potential for nut cross-contamination if you’re using specific brands. Always ask guests about allergies, and feel free to experiment with dairy-free options, like using plant-based butter and cream cheese, if needed.