Ingredients
Pumpkin Cookies
- 1 (15 ounce) can 100% pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 (15.25 ounce) box spice cake mix
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch salt
- 2-3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree and the large egg until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Gradually add in the spice cake mix and stir gently until everything is just incorporated, forming a soft dough.
- Shape and Arrange: Using a heaping tablespoon, scoop balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Space each dough ball about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Bake until the edges appear firm and the centers are set but remain soft. Once done, remove from the oven and let the cookies rest on the sheets for 5 minutes to firm up.
- Cool Completely: Transfer the cookies onto a wire rack to cool fully before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating continuously until the frosting reaches a smooth, fluffy consistency.
- Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies have completely cooled, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. Optionally, sprinkle with cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for extra flavor and decoration.
- Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy these deliciously moist and flavorful pumpkin cookies as a perfect fall dessert or snack.
Notes
- Use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best results.
- Adjust powdered sugar in the frosting to achieve your preferred sweetness and consistency.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Optionally sprinkle cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on frosting for added seasonal flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
