Irresistible Pumpkin Pie Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling

If you’re craving a cozy autumn treat that melts in your mouth and brings together rich, warm spices with a luscious creamy center, look no further than these Pumpkin Pie Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling. This delightful recipe takes classic pumpkin pie flavors and transforms them into bite-sized cookies, perfect for sharing or enjoying with a steaming cup of tea. Each soft cookie boasts a burst of sweet pumpkin paired with an irresistible cream cheese filling (plant-based) that will have you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in Every Bite: These cookies combine the tender, spiced pumpkin base with a smooth cream cheese filling (plant-based) for a perfect cozy experience.
• Easy to Make: With simple pantry staples and a few basic steps, you can whip up these treats quickly and effortlessly.
• Versatile Flavor: Balanced spices and natural sweetness make these cookies ideal for fall celebrations or anytime snack cravings.
• Plant-Based Friendly: Using plant-based cream cheese (plant-based) means everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert without compromise.
• Perfect for Gifting: These adorable cookies are great for sharing with friends and family or packaging as thoughtful homemade gifts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to creating Pumpkin Pie Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling that deliver both taste and texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role in bringing out the warmth, softness, and creamy satisfaction of this recipe.

• Pure Pumpkin Purée: Provides the rich, earthy pumpkin flavor and moist texture essential for soft cookies.
• Brown Sugar (natural): Adds deep sweetness and subtle molasses notes, enhancing the pumpkin’s natural flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of the cookies for a tender but stable bite.
• Warm Spices: Includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, blending together to evoke classic pumpkin pie aroma and taste.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder (natural): Work together to create lightness and perfect rise in the cookies.
• Smoked Turkey Bacon: Crispy bits add subtle smoky undertones and contrast to the sweet pumpkin (optional).
• Plant-Based Cream Cheese (plant-based): Whipped smooth to create a luscious, creamy filling for each cookie.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural): A splash in the filling mix for subtle depth and complexity.
• Vanilla Extract (natural): Brings comforting warmth and rounds out the flavor.

Variations for Pumpkin Pie Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling

One of the best parts of this recipe is how easy it is to tailor it to your mood or dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment with these variations to make the recipe your own.

• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cookie dough for added texture and flavor.
• Chocolate Swirl: Fold in dairy-free chocolate chips or swirl nut butter (natural) through the cream cheese filling.
• Maple Infusion: Substitute brown sugar (natural) with maple syrup (natural) for a sweet, earthy twist.
• Spice It Up: Increase the amount of ginger and cloves for a bolder, warming flavor profile.
• Fruit Boost: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins to the dough for bursts of sweetness in every bite.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by mixing together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder (natural), and warm spices in a bowl. In a separate larger bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, brown sugar (natural), vanilla extract (natural), and a pinch of smoked turkey bacon bits if using. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet, stirring until fully incorporated into a soft cookie dough that holds together but is not too sticky.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In another bowl, beat the plant-based cream cheese (plant-based) with a touch of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and vanilla extract (natural) until smooth and creamy. This filling will be placed between cookie layers to add that dreamy texture and tangy sweetness.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Using a spoon or your hands, scoop a tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly. Add a dollop of cream cheese filling on top, then sandwich it with another flattened ball of dough. Seal the edges well to prevent filling from leaking out while baking.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Place the sandwich cookies on a parchment-lined baking tray spaced evenly apart. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 12-15 minutes until the edges turn golden and the filling is set. Allow to cool completely before enjoying, so the flavors meld perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures smooth mixing and an even dough texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir flour gently to avoid tough cookies.
• Seal Filling Well: Properly closing the dough around the filling avoids oozing during baking.
• Chill Dough if Needed: If dough feels too sticky, refrigerate for 30 minutes before assembling.
• Watch Oven Time Closely: Slightly underbaking helps keep the cookies soft and moist.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling

Garnishes

Sprinkle a dusting of cinnamon sugar or a light drizzle of caramel sauce (natural) over the cookies to enhance their inviting aroma and sweetness. A few toasted pumpkin seeds add an extra festive crunch.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of chai tea or a glass of spiced grape juice for the ultimate autumn snack experience, perfectly complementing the spices and creamy filling.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board alongside small jars of seasonal jams or apple butter (natural) for guests to enjoy. Wrapping them in parchment paper tied with cinnamon sticks also makes a charming gift presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pumpkin Pie Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to preserve the creamy filling’s freshness.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a tray to freeze first, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Warm the cookies gently in a low oven or microwave for a few seconds to enjoy the soft texture and creamy filling at its best.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup for best results while maintaining the soft texture.

What if I don’t have plant-based cream cheese?

You can use any soft dairy-free cream cheese alternative or even coconut cream whipped smooth for a rich filling.

Can I prepare the dough and filling ahead of time?

Yes, both dough and filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated separately to make assembly quicker on baking day.

How can I make these cookies less sweet?

Simply reduce the brown sugar (natural) slightly in the dough and decrease the sweetener in the filling to suit your taste.

Are these cookies suitable for children?

Definitely! The gentle spices and creamy filling make them a kid-friendly treat perfect for school lunches or parties.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the charm of Pumpkin Pie Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling to brighten your day during any season when you need a touch of comfort. Soft, spiced, and creamy, these cookies are guaranteed to become a go-to favorite whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones. Give them a try and enjoy every bite of this cozy autumn delight!

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