Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Why Make This Recipe

There’s something special about soft pumpkin cookies that makes them a hit at any gathering. Not only do they bring the warm, inviting flavors of fall to your kitchen, but they also make for an incredibly delicious snack or dessert any time of the year. The blend of spices, the sweet notes of pumpkin, and the creamy cinnamon frosting create a treat that is both comforting and delightful. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or just want a tasty treat, these cookies are sure to please.

Pumpkin is a versatile ingredient that adds moisture and flavor without being overwhelming. Thanks to the vegan butter, these cookies are plant-based, yet they remain soft and chewy, which is a quality that many people cherish in a cookie. The cinnamon frosting adds a sweet and spiced character that complements the pumpkin perfectly. Each bite is a balance of soft bread-like cookie with creamy frosting that coats your tastebuds with sweetness and warmth.

You’ll also find that this recipe is accessible to everyone, even if you’re new to baking. The steps are straightforward, meaning you will enjoy making these cookies just as much as you will enjoy eating them. Best of all, they can be shared, gifted, or savored all by yourself!

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Making soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting requires just a few steps. The process is simple and enjoyable, making it suitable for bakers of all levels, including children. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious treat from scratch.

Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting:

For the Cookies:

• 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup vegan butter
• 3 teaspoons vanilla paste (or extract)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or more cinnamon)
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 3 1/4 cups powdered sugar

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, take your softened vegan butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Cream these ingredients together until they become light and fluffy. This step will take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are well combined to ensure a uniform texture in your cookies.

3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain the dough’s light texture.

4. Chill the Dough: Once your dough is mixed, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it chill overnight enhances the vibrant flavors and helps the cookies set better.

5. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This step prevents the cookies from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

6. Shape the Cookies: After chilling, take scoops of the dough and shape them into 2-inch balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Remember to flatten them slightly, as they will spread while baking!

7. Bake: Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should be set while the centers might still look a little soft. This leads to that perfect soft texture once cooled.

8. Cool: After baking, remove the cookies and let them sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential so that when you frost them, the frosting doesn’t melt.

9. Make Frosting: While your cookies are cooling, you can whip up the icing. In a bowl, beat together the vegan butter, vanilla paste or extract, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and powdered sugar until you have a fluffy frosting.

10. Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, generously spread or pipe the cinnamon frosting onto the cookies. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little pumpkin pie spice on top for decoration.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

These soft pumpkin cookies are perfect for serving at gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying at home with a cup of coffee or tea. You can present them on a decorative plate, stack them in a mason jar, or package them as gifts for friends and family. When serving, consider pairing cookies with a warm beverage like apple cider, hot chocolate, or a spiced latte.

Additionally, if you’re hosting a party or gathering, feel free to make a batch of these cookies in advance and have them ready to serve. People will appreciate the delightful dessert after a meal, and they can easily grab one to enjoy.

How to Store Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

To keep your pumpkin cookies fresh, it’s essential to store them properly:

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cookies within a few days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This method retains their soft texture and moistness.

• Refrigeration: If you want to keep them for a bit longer, you can refrigerate the cookies. Ensure they are in an airtight container to avoid drying out.

• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and let them freeze. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you want to eat them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Tips to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

1. Check the Freshness of Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh to get the best flavor and rise from your cookies.

2. Measure Ingredients Carefully: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure your dry and wet ingredients are accurately measured.

3. Avoid Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for the best texture.

4. Chill the Dough: Chilling isn’t just a recommendation; it helps with the dough consistency and enhances flavor.

5. Decorate Wisely: When frosting, you can get creative with decorations. Use sprinkles or chopped nuts for an added crunch!

Variation

If you’re interested in mixing things up, consider adding some extras to your pumpkin cookie dough.

• Chocolate Chips: Fold in vegan chocolate chips for a delicious contrast to the pumpkin flavor.

• Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch that complements the soft cookie texture.

• Dried Fruits: Chopped dried cranberries or raisins can add a fruity burst.

Feel free to experiment with spices, too! Cardamom or nutmeg can be excellent additions or substitutions for pumpkin pie spice if you want a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

Yes, you can substitute regular butter if you’re not following a vegan diet. Just be sure to keep the amounts the same.

2. How long do these cookies stay fresh?

At room temperature in an airtight container, these cookies last about 4-5 days. If refrigerated, they can last longer, up to a week. In the freezer, they can be stored for up to three months.

3. Can I make the frosting in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cinnamon frosting a few days ahead of time. Just keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and give it a quick whip before using.

4. What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?

You can substitute with applesauce or mashed bananas, but keep in mind that this will change the flavor. Ensure the ratio remains the same for consistency.

5. Are these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free pumpkin cookies, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend. Also, make sure your baking powder is gluten-free to keep the recipe compliant.

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are a delightful treat that embodies the flavors of fall while being easy to make. Enjoy every bite and share them with your loved ones for pure comfort. Happy baking!

Print