When the air turns crisp and the leaves turn golden, nothing quite matches the cozy comfort of pumpkin-spiced cookies fresh from the oven. These Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting bring together soft, tender cookies infused with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, topped with a rich, tangy frosting that balances sweetness perfectly. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, afternoon treat, or a casual dessert, these cookies feel like autumn on a plate.

The combination of pumpkin puree and cream cheese frosting elevates classic fall flavors to a new level of deliciousness, with a soft texture and luscious topping that everyone will love.

Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The cookies are soft and moist, thanks to pumpkin puree and brown sugar
Warm, cozy spices create a perfect fall flavor profile
Cream cheese frosting adds a tangy, creamy contrast to the sweet spices
Simple ingredients, easy instructions, and quick bake time make it beginner-friendly
Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee

Ingredients

Yip: you can find a full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup pumpkin puree
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Add the pumpkin puree, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly.

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops no longer look wet. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting: beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.

Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable. Adjust consistency with more powdered sugar or a drop of milk if necessary.

Once the cookies are completely cool, frost generously and serve.

Variations

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for crunch
Substitute maple syrup for vanilla in frosting for a richer flavor
Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a subtle crunch
Use gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version
For extra spice, add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the dough

Heating and Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. Allow cookies to come to room temperature before serving. You can also freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months—frost after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Yes! Use plain canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.

Why use an egg yolk instead of a whole egg?

Egg yolks add richness and tenderness without extra moisture, helping keep cookies soft.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure the butter is softened but not melted, and avoid overmixing the dough.

Can I make these dairy-free?

You can substitute vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives, but texture may vary slightly.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the frosting a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature and re-whip before spreading.

What if I don’t want to use cream cheese frosting?

Try a simple powdered sugar glaze or a cinnamon sugar dusting as alternatives.

How do I keep the cookies soft longer?

Store with a slice of bread or an apple wedge in the container to maintain moisture.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, freeze unfrosted cookies in an airtight container. Thaw and frost before serving.

Is it okay to use fresh spices?

Yes! Freshly ground spices often provide more flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and bake in batches.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting capture the essence of fall in every bite. Their soft, spiced crumb paired with a creamy, tangy frosting makes them an irresistible treat for chilly afternoons or festive gatherings. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they’re a wonderful way to celebrate the season and share warmth with friends and family.