Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

There is something truly magical about Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting that makes them an irresistible treat for fall and beyond. These cookies bring together the warm, cozy flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pumpkin pie spice, all hugged by a soft pumpkin-infused dough. Topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting, every bite delivers a perfect balance of spice and sweetness that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring one quietly with a cup of tea, these cookies have a way of making moments extra special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each adding a unique element to the taste, texture, and vibrant look of these Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting.

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base gives structure and chewiness to your cookies.
• ½ tsp baking soda & ½ tsp baking powder: Both work in harmony to give your cookies a light, tender crumb.
• A pinch of salt: Enhances all the cozy spice flavors and balances sweetness.
• ½ cup brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and moisture for soft cookies.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps achieve a slight crisp edge.
• 1 Tbsp cinnamon: The star spice that creates warmth and aroma.
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg and ¼ tsp ground cloves: These spices add complexity and perfect autumn vibes.
• ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice: A delicious blend that highlights the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings it all together with a mellow, fragrant hint.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Provides richness and tender crumb.
• 1 cup pumpkin purée: The heart of the recipe, giving moisture, color, and that signature fall flavor.
• 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature): Essential for the smooth, tangy frosting topping.
• 2 Tbsp butter: Adds richness to the frosting’s creamy texture.
• 1 Tbsp milk: Helps achieve a spreadable frosting consistency.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the frosting.

How to Make Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures the oven is hot and ready, so your cookies start baking immediately and develop a perfect texture. Having everything at hand really makes the process smoother.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a mixer, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for about three minutes. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, leading to light, tender cookies. The sugars dissolve, giving the dough a beautiful texture and that irresistible caramelized flavor.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Vanilla

Next, mix in the pumpkin purée and vanilla extract. The pumpkin not only adds moisture but also gives the cookies their gorgeous warm color and signature fall flavor. Vanilla adds that classic, sweet aroma that blends perfectly with the spice mix.

Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and pumpkin pie spice in a separate bowl. Then gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms. Take care not to overmix—this step ensures the cookies stay tender and don’t become tough.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Roll the dough into 2-tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Gently flatten each ball to help them bake evenly. Slide them into the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes until they’re set with a lightly crisp edge but still soft inside. This is where the magic really happens as the spices bloom.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cookies cool, create the dreamy frosting by creaming together the room-temperature cream cheese and butter. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until it’s smooth and spreadable. This frosting is rich, tangy, and the perfect balance to the spiced cookie base.

Step 7: Frost and Enjoy

Once your cookies are completely cooled, generously frost each one and sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top for an added touch of warmth. Store any leftovers in the fridge to keep that frosting fresh and luscious.

How to Serve Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

If you want to heighten their charm, consider sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg on top of the frosting. For a bit of crunch and color, chopped toasted pecans or walnuts make delicious garnishes that complement the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with warm beverages like chai tea, coffee, or a creamy latte. For a festive touch, serve alongside a small bowl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy richness juxtaposes naturally with the spiced sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the cookies to create a charming tower tied with a rustic ribbon for gift-giving. You can also sandwich cream cheese frosting between two cookies for a delightful treat that looks and tastes special. Another fun idea is to serve them on a wooden board with cinnamon sticks and dried orange slices to highlight their seasonal flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled and frosted cookies in an airtight container and refrigerate. They keep wonderfully for up to 5 days, maintaining their soft texture and fresh frosting. This makes them perfect for baking ahead of time for a party or holiday gathering.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. Simply freeze them flat on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Once thawed, whip up the cream cheese frosting fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy these cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds (without frosting). This softens the cookie bunch and enhances the cozy spice aroma. Add frosting after warming to keep its creamy consistency intact.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin purée?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin purée works perfectly in this recipe and maintains the moist texture and rich flavor these spice cookies need.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, you can enjoy these cookies without gluten. Just be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to keep the texture right.

Can I swap the cream cheese frosting for something else?

If you prefer, a simple vanilla buttercream or a maple glaze also complements these spice cookies beautifully and offers a different flavor profile for variety.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted when creaming, and don’t overwork the dough. Chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking can help the cookies keep their shape better.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Definitely! Making the dough a day ahead and refrigerating it allows the spices to meld even more deeply. Just shape and bake the cookies fresh when ready.

Final Thoughts

These Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are truly a little bite of seasonal happiness. Simple ingredients come together to create something so comforting, special, and versatile. I genuinely encourage you to try baking these, whether for a cozy afternoon treat or a festive celebration. Once you’ve tasted that tender, spiced goodness paired with the creamy frosting, you’ll understand why they deserve a permanent spot on your cookie list.

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