Irresistible Thanksgiving Pumpkin Sugar Cookies Recipe

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious treats. Imagine the warm scent of spices wafting through the air as you bite into a soft and chewy Thanksgiving pumpkin sugar cookie topped with creamy frosting. classic Thanksgiving dessert option These cookies not only taste like a hug on a plate but also bring back memories of holiday gatherings filled with laughter and joy.

Picture this: your loved ones gathered around, smiles all around as they take that first bite. The bright orange color of the pumpkin and the luscious cream cheese frosting make these cookies not just tasty but visually stunning. With every crumb, you’ll be transported to cozy autumn days and heartwarming memories.

I still remember the first time I brought these cookies to our family Thanksgiving dinner. The delighted faces of my relatives were priceless! For more inspiration, check out this creamy Thanksgiving mashed potatoes recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Canned Pumpkin Puree: Use 100% pure pumpkin for the best flavor; fresh pumpkin can be used but requires more prep.

• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies perfectly; feel free to experiment with brown sugar for added depth.

• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sift it to prevent lumps and ensure a light texture.

• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Both are crucial for achieving that perfect rise; check expiration dates for effectiveness.

• Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices add warmth and holiday cheer; fresh ground is always better if you have it!

• Salt: A pinch enhances flavors; don’t skip it even if the recipe seems sweet.

• Eggs: Provides moisture and binds everything together; room temperature eggs work best.

• Unsalted Butter: Softened butter creates a tender cookie; don’t melt it or your dough will be too runny.

• Cream Cheese: For that luscious frosting; use full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor.

• Vanilla Extract: A splash elevates the taste of both cookies and frosting; opt for pure vanilla extract when possible.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat & Prepare Your Space

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking, ensuring an easy cleanup later.

Create That Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and pale—about 3-5 minutes should do. Then mix in canned pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Add Dry Ingredients Gradually

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually blend this mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined—be careful not to overmix!

Scoop & Bake Those Cookies!

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart—this is where their magic happens! Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.

Cool & Frost Your Cookies

Allow cookies to cool on sheets for about five minutes before transferring them to wire racks. In the meantime, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth; frost cooled cookies generously.

Serve & Enjoy!

Now comes the best part! Arrange your beautiful cookies on a serving platter or simply dig in right away! Either way, prepare yourself for compliments from everyone who tastes them.

Thanksgiving pumpkin sugar cookies with cream cheese frosting are sure to become your new holiday tradition! Not only do they capture the spirit of fall with their delightful flavors, but they also create cherished moments around the table with loved ones. essential side dish for Thanksgiving savory pumpkin dish for Thanksgiving Enjoy baking these scrumptious treats! festive appetizer for your gathering.

You Must Know

• These Thanksgiving Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful twist on a classic treat
• Their soft, chewy texture and creamy topping will make your taste buds dance
• Perfect for holiday gatherings, they bring joy and flavor to your festive celebrations

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by creaming butter and sugars until fluffy, then gradually add pumpkin and spices. This sequence ensures the perfect blend of flavors and a lovely texture.



Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out traditional spices for ginger or nutmeg if you want to add a unique twist. You can also experiment with different frostings like maple for extra autumn flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For a warm delight, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips

• Use fresh pumpkin puree for deeper flavor; canned works too but may lack vibrancy
• Always chill your dough before baking to help maintain shape during cooking
• Frost cookies when completely cooled to avoid melting the icing into gooey puddles

I once brought these cookies to a Thanksgiving potluck, and they disappeared faster than I could say “pumpkin spice.” Everyone loved them so much that I was asked for the recipe multiple times!



FAQ

Can I use canned pumpkin for these cookies?

Yes, canned pumpkin works well but ensure it’s pure pumpkin without additives.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

Stored correctly, they can last up to one week in an airtight container.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Absolutely! Freeze them individually wrapped for up to three months for later enjoyment.

Print

Thanksgiving Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
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• Author: Anastasia Chen
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
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Description
Thanksgiving Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect festive treat that brings warmth and joy to your holiday gatherings. These soft, chewy cookies, topped with rich cream cheese frosting, are infused with the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices, making them a delightful addition to your seasonal dessert table. Easy to make and visually stunning, they create cherished moments around the table with loved ones.
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Ingredients
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• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar
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Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Mix in pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
4. Drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake for 12–15 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
5. Allow cookies to cool on sheets for five minutes before transferring to wire racks. Beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth; frost cooled cookies generously.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
Nutrition
• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 110
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 95mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg