Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
- Beat in the egg and vanilla until well combined.
- Mix in the pumpkin purée.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
- Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually beat in the powdered sugar.
- Add the vanilla and cinnamon and mix until light and fluffy.
- Spread or pipe the frosting onto the cooled cookies.
Optional Toppings
- A sprinkle of cinnamon
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Caramel drizzle
- White chocolate shavings
Storage
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months.
These cookies are incredibly soft, lightly spiced, and topped with a rich cinnamon cream cheese frosting—perfect for fall gatherings, holiday baking, or enjoying with a warm cup of coffee or tea. 🍂🎃
