Pumpkin-Orange Cookies with a Creamy Topping – A Cozy Autumn Treat

These pumpkin-orange cookies, topped with a delicious cream cheese frosting, are a perfect way to embrace the cozy flavors of fall. Infused with the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, and the refreshing zest of orange, these cookies are soft, flavorful, and irresistible. The creamy topping adds a delightful touch, making them an ideal dessert for any fall gathering or a comforting snack with a cup of tea.

Why You’ll Love This:

You’ll love the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture of these cookies, combined with the zesty sweetness of orange and the earthy warmth of pumpkin and spices. The rich cream cheese frosting adds a luscious finish that perfectly complements the fall flavors. Whether you’re looking for a festive treat to share with friends or a cozy snack to enjoy on a chilly day, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Perfect Occasion:

These cookies are perfect for fall celebrations, family gatherings, or even as a sweet treat to bring to a potluck. Their warm, spiced flavors make them ideal for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or any autumn get-together. You can also bake them as a comforting weekend project to enjoy with your morning coffee or afternoon tea.

Decoration Tips:

For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice over the cream cheese topping. You can also add a small piece of candied orange peel or a sprinkle of orange zest for a pop of color and flavor. If you want to create a more elegant presentation, drizzle the cookies with a simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice.

Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 250g roasted pumpkin
• 100g butter
• 100g sugar
• 5g vanilla sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger (mixed)
• 1 egg
• Zest of 1 orange
• 300g flour
• 1 tsp baking powder

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 400g cream cheese
• Powdered sugar (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pumpkin:
   • Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
   • Cut the pumpkin into large pieces, remove the seeds and skin, and place them on a baking sheet.
   • Roast the pumpkin for about 30 minutes until tender. Let it cool, then blend it into a smooth purée or grate it finely.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, mix the softened butter with sugar and vanilla sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the egg and whisk until fully combined.
   • Stir in the pumpkin purée and the zest of one orange, mixing well.
   • In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger).
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until a soft dough forms.
   • Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 20 minutes.
3. Shape the Cookies:
   • Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) if it’s not already preheated.
   • Divide the dough into portions and roll each portion into a ball (the size of your choice). Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving 3-4 cm of space between each one.
   • Flatten each dough ball slightly with your hand or the back of a spoon.
4. Bake:
   • Bake the cookies for 25-30 minutes until they are golden and firm. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Prepare the Frosting:
   • In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with powdered sugar to taste until smooth and creamy.
   • Once the cookies have cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top of each one.
6. Serve:
   • Optionally, sprinkle the frosted cookies with a dash of cinnamon for an extra warm touch.

Enjoy your delicious pumpkin-orange cookies with a creamy frosting – the perfect autumn treat!