10-Minute Irresistible Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies – The Ultimate Fall Dessert Recipe

Posted on June 27, 2025 ·

By Lyndy

pumpkin cheesecake cookies with frosting on top

As the weather cools and the leaves begin to change, there’s nothing more comforting than the smell of freshly baked pumpkin cheesecake cookies. These cookies are the perfect combination of soft, spiced pumpkin cookies and creamy cheesecake filling, making them a must-try for any fall baking enthusiast. If you’re looking for a pumpkin spice recipe or want to elevate your fall cookie recipes, these cookies are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or holiday dinner.

Pumpkin cheesecake cookies combine the richness of cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice cookies. With their creamy, tangy center and soft, pumpkin-flavored cookie exterior, they’re the ideal treat for fall baking recipes. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make and perfect for those who love indulging in pumpkin recipes for dessert.

What Makes Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies So Irresistible

What makes these pumpkin cheesecake cookies irresistible is the rich, creamy cheesecake center that perfectly balances the spiced pumpkin cookie exterior. The cream cheese filling adds a tangy, smooth contrast to the warm and slightly sweet pumpkin spice flavor in the cookie dough. Each bite is a perfect combination of creamy and comforting, making them a fall favorite.

These cookies have the perfect texture: soft, chewy, and just the right amount of decadence. Whether you’re preparing them for a fall party, an autumn dessert spread, or simply baking for yourself, these cookies will quickly become a staple in your baked dessert recipes.

Ingredients You Need for the Best Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to make these pumpkin cheesecake cookies:

For the Cookies:

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These simple ingredients combine to create a mouthwatering cookie that’s full of fall flavor and creamy indulgence.

Essential Tools for Baking Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

To make these pumpkin cheesecake cookies, you’ll need the following tools:

  • Mixing bowls (for both cookie dough and cheesecake filling)
  • Electric mixer (for making the cheesecake filling smooth and creamy)
  • Baking sheet (lined with parchment paper for easy cookie removal)
  • Spoon or ice cream scoop (for portioning the dough)
  • Cooling rack (for cooling the cookies)

These tools will make the baking process quick and easy, allowing you to focus on enjoying your delicious fall baking recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Making these pumpkin cheesecake cookies is simple and takes just a few easy steps. Here’s how to prepare them:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Set aside. In a separate large bowl, beat together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract and beat until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

3. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a small bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Cookies

Scoop a tablespoon of cookie dough and roll it into a ball. Make an indentation in the center of each dough ball and spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling into the center. Top with a bit more cookie dough, pinching the edges to seal the filling inside. Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.

5. Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden and the center is set. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For a twist on this classic, you can also make pumpkin spice cookies for a lighter version without the cheesecake filling.

How to Customize Your Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

While these pumpkin cheesecake cookies are delicious as is, you can easily customize them to suit your tastes:

  • Add nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for extra crunch.
  • Add chocolate chips: For a sweet twist, mix in some chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks into the cookie dough.
  • Make them spicy: For an extra layer of warmth, add more cinnamon, ginger, or cloves to the cookie dough.

For another delightful take on pumpkin spice recipes, try making pumpkin spice muffins for a quick and tasty treat.

Serving Ideas: How to Serve Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies Like a Pro

Here are some fun ways to serve your pumpkin cheesecake cookies:

  • With a cup of coffee or tea: These cookies are perfect with a hot cup of coffee, chai, or pumpkin spice latte.
  • For a fall dessert table: Add them to your holiday cooking spread alongside other festive treats like pumpkin bread or mini pumpkin pies.
  • As an afternoon snack: Serve them with a cup of apple cider or hot chocolate for a cozy fall snack.

If you love pumpkin cheesecake cookies, try making these pumpkin pie bars for another great fall dessert recipe.

Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

To ensure your pumpkin cheesecake cookies turn out perfect every time, follow these tips:

  • Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese, butter, and egg are all at room temperature for a smoother batter and filling.
  • Chill the dough: If you find the dough is too sticky to work with, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes before rolling it into balls.
  • Don’t overbake: These cookies should be soft and chewy, so keep an eye on them in the oven to ensure they don’t get too crispy.

For another pumpkin dessert, try making these pumpkin cheesecake bars for a more decadent option.

How to Store Leftovers from Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

If you have leftovers from your pumpkin cheesecake cookies, here’s how to store and reheat them:

Refrigeration

Store the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They can be enjoyed cold or brought to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies by placing them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and enjoy as fresh as the day they were made.

What to Pair with Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

To complete your meal, try pairing these pumpkin cheesecake cookies with:

  • A cup of pumpkin spice latte or hot chocolate for a cozy fall treat.
  • Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
  • A warm cup of tea like chai or cinnamon to complement the spices in the cookies.

For another great pumpkin dessert, try making pumpkin pie cookies for a bite-sized treat with all the flavors of a traditional pumpkin pie.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?
While cream cheese gives the filling a smooth and tangy flavor, you can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese as a substitute for a different taste.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze well. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container and separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking.

How do I make these cookies spicier?
Add more cinnamon, ginger, or allspice to the dough for an extra spicy kick.

Why Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies Are a Must-Try Fall Dessert

These pumpkin cheesecake cookies are the perfect way to enjoy all the delicious flavors of fall in a fun and creative form. The creamy cheesecake filling pairs beautifully with the spiced pumpkin cookie dough, creating a comforting treat that’s perfect for fall baking. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just treating yourself, these cookies will be a hit every time.

For more fall baking recipes, try making pumpkin pie bars for another easy yet indulgent dessert.

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Delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies – A Perfect Fall Dessert


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Yield: 12 pies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect fall dessert, blending soft, chewy oatmeal cookies with a creamy, pumpkin-infused cheesecake filling. These cookies bring the best of both worlds—spiced pumpkin and rich cheesecake—into one delicious treat that captures the essence of autumn. Whether you’re serving them at a fall gathering or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to be a hit.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookie Dough:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Make the cheesecake filling: In a medium-sized bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and cinnamon with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  3. Make the cookie dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree, and beat until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Stir in the oats.
  4. Form the cookies: Using a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Flatten the dough slightly with the back of a spoon.
  5. Bake the cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges and firm in the center. Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
  6. Make the cream filling: In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
  7. Assemble the pies: Spread a generous amount of the pumpkin cream filling on the flat side of one cookie and top with another cookie. Press gently to sandwich together.
  8. Serve: Serve the Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing the dough can lead to dense cookies. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
  • Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.
  • Use room-temperature cream cheese: For a smoother filling, use room-temperature cream cheese.
  • Customize the filling: Add a bit of maple syrup for a different flavor or use cream cheese frosting for a sweeter, richer filling.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 pie
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies, Fall Pumpkin Cookies, Cheesecake Filled Cookies, Fall Desserts

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