There’s nothing quite like the start of fall, when the air turns crisp and the aroma of baking wafts through the house, signaling the return of cozy treats! Recently, while savoring a cup of spiced chai, I was struck by a sudden craving for something sweet yet wholesome. That’s when these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting came to mind—turning a simple pantry staple into a delightful dessert that’s perfect for the season.
These cookies, made with velvety pumpkin puree and a swirl of creamy cinnamon frosting, capture the essence of autumn in every bite. When shared with friends or enjoyed alongside a warm beverage, they make any gathering feel special. The best part? They come together quickly and easily, making them ideal for when the pumpkin spice cravings strike. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and bring a little comfort into your kitchen!
Why love Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?
Delightful flavor: The warm spices and sweet pumpkin create a heartwarming taste that encapsulates fall.
Vegan-friendly: Perfect for everyone to enjoy, these cookies cater to vegan diets without sacrificing flavor.
Effortless preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they come together in no time.
Versatile serving options: Pair them with a hot drink or serve at gatherings for an instant crowd-pleaser!
Cozy aroma: Baking these cookies fills your home with an inviting scent that’s sure to warm hearts.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor; can substitute with applesauce for a different taste.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; white sugar can be used in a pinch but will alter the flavor profile slightly.
- Cinnamon – Integral for flavor, enhancing the fall spirit; consider using pumpkin pie spice for a more complex taste.
- Flour – Sets structure for the cookies; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version if needed.
- Baking Soda – Leavening agent that helps cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
- Non-Dairy Milk – Moistens the batter; any plant-based milk (e.g., almond, oat) works.
- Vegan Butter or Coconut Oil – Adds fat for tenderness; coconut oil can impart a subtle coconut flavor.
For the Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and a smooth texture; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a less refined option.
- Vegan Butter – Creates a creamy frosting consistency; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Cinnamon – Enhances the flavor of the frosting, tying it beautifully with the cookies.
These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting will surely become a favorite in your fall baking repertoire!
How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even bake for your cookies, resulting in the perfect soft texture.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and non-dairy milk, mixing until smooth. This mixture will be the flavorful base for your cookies.
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Whisk Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. This step helps distribute the dry ingredients evenly, contributing to a consistent texture throughout the cookies.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just blended; be careful not to overmix to keep your cookies soft and tender.
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Scoop Dough: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Flatten them slightly to ensure they bake evenly.
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Bake Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Your kitchen will start to smell divine!
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Cool on Rack: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. This helps set their texture, making them easier to frost later.
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Prepare Frosting: For the frosting, mix powdered sugar with softened vegan butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon until smooth. Spread the creamy frosting generously over the cooled cookies.
Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or crushed nuts on top of the frosting for added flavor and texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?
Treat your senses to a delightful autumn gathering by pairing these sweet, spiced cookies with cozy accompaniments.
- Pumpkin-Spiced Latte: The warm spices in this creamy drink complement the cookies perfectly, creating a blissful harmony of flavors.
- Apple Cider: Hot or cold apple cider brings a refreshing sweetness that enhances the pumpkin goodness and warms the heart.
- Chai Tea: A cup of spiced chai adds aromatic warmth, making it the ideal beverage as you savor these fall treats.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The contrast between soft cookies and cold ice cream creates a delightful treat that’s hard to resist. Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for flair!
- Candied Pecans: These crunchy bites introduce a sweet nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the tender cookies’ texture and flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dark chocolate can elevate the cookies, offering a rich balance to their sweetness with added decadence.
- Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and fluffy, this non-dairy alternative adds a luscious topping to the cookies, making them feel indulgent while still being vegan.
- Maple Syrup Dipping Sauce: A warm, maple-infused sauce can add a sweet, luxurious touch that complements the spiced flavors in the cookies.
- Cinnamon-Spiced Hot Chocolate: For extra comfort, serve these cookies with a mug of rich hot chocolate infused with a touch of cinnamon, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimum mixing and to achieve the best texture in your Soft Pumpkin Cookies.
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Prevent Melting Frosting: Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting; this avoids the frosting melting and losing its creamy texture.
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Even Cookie Sizes: Use an ice cream scoop for uniform cookie sizes to ensure even baking. Consistency leads to beautifully accommodating the taste and texture.
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Avoid Overmixing: Stir the batter gently until just combined to retain that soft, moist texture that makes these cookies irresistible.
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Spice It Up: For extra depth, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cookie dough. This elevates the autumn flavor profile beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
- Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain their softness and delicious flavor.
- Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, store the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure they are properly wrapped to avoid drying out.
- Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies or dough in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before frosting and serving.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, gently reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This warms them perfectly without drying them out.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are perfect for busy cooks wanting to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients as instructed and refrigerate the dough until you’re ready to bake. While the dough is chilling, you can also whip up the frosting and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days; just give it a quick stir before using to ensure it’s smooth and creamy. When you’re ready to enjoy your cookies, scoop the dough onto a lined baking sheet and bake as directed, ensuring you’re still rewarded with that delightful softness and warmth that autumn is all about!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Variations
Feel the joy of making these cookies unique to your taste! Embrace your creativity and let these variations inspire you.
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Nuts Galore: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The nuts bring a lovely texture that complements the softness of the cookies.
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix in vegan chocolate chips for an indulgent treat. The sweet chocolate adds a rich contrast to the spiced pumpkin flavors.
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Pumpkin Spice Magic: Swap out cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a bolder, aromatic kick. This variation enhances the seasonal essence beautifully.
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness and chewiness. They create little bursts of flavor in every bite.
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Maple Glaze Surprise: Use maple syrup instead of powdered sugar for a glaze. This will infuse a warm, caramel-like flavor just perfect for fall.
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Coconut Cream: Replace vegan butter with coconut cream in the frosting for a tropical twist. This adds an exotic flair while keeping it wonderfully creamy.
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Zesty Citrus: Add orange zest to the frosting for a refreshing brightness. This uplifted flavor balances the rich spices perfectly, making each bite refreshing.
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Heat it Up: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cookie dough for a surprising warmth. This bold twist can elevate the entire experience.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for a brand that lists 100% pure pumpkin without any added spices or fillers. The color should be a vibrant orange, indicating ripeness. If you decide to use fresh pumpkin, opt for sugar pumpkins, which are sweeter and less watery. Simply roast, scoop, and puree them until smooth!
How should I store leftover cookies?
For the best freshness, store your soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, just make sure to wrap them well to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Definitely! To freeze your soft pumpkin cookies, I recommend you do it unfrosted. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, and store them for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw on the counter and frost as desired!
What should I do if my cookies turn out dry?
To avoid this pitfall, ensure that you’re not overbaking your cookies. They should be soft to the touch when you take them out of the oven; they will continue to firm up as they cool. Additionally, check your ingredient measurements; a little too much flour can lead to dryness. If this happens, you can drizzle some non-dairy milk over your cookies to add moisture back!
Are these cookies okay for those with nut allergies?
Yes, indeed! These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting can easily cater to nut allergies. Just use a nut-free non-dairy milk like oat or rice milk, and if you’re using butter alternatives for the frosting, ensure they are made from soy or coconut. Always check labels to be certain that all ingredients align with dietary restrictions.
Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
While you can use white sugar as a substitute, I suggest using brown sugar because it adds not only sweetness but also depth and moisture, which are essential for the rich flavor of these cookies. If you must use white sugar, consider adding an extra tablespoon of molasses to mimic that caramel-like essence brown sugar provides.
Each of these questions focuses on your experience of making these delightful cookies. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
- In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and non-dairy milk until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just blended.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet and flatten slightly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Mix powdered sugar with softened vegan butter and cinnamon until smooth, and spread over cookies.