Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Craving a taste of autumn’s embrace? These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are your ticket to a cozy, flavor-packed delight! Imagine sinking your teeth into a pillowy, spiced pumpkin cookie, topped with a swirl of creamy cinnamon frosting. Perfect for a chilly afternoon or a festive gathering, these cookies are guaranteed to bring a smile to every face. Let’s bake some magic!

Why You’ll Love This Soft Pumpkin Cookies Recipe

• Effortless Baking: Minimal prep time for maximum flavor.
• Incredibly Soft Texture: Melts in your mouth with every bite.
• Perfectly Spiced: Warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create a comforting aroma.
• Creamy Cinnamon Frosting: Adds the perfect touch of sweetness and spice.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit at any gathering.
• Freezer-Friendly: Bake ahead and enjoy later.
• Better Than Store-Bought: Homemade goodness you can taste.
• Rekindles Cozy Memories: Evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia.

These cookies are simply irresistible! Simple enough even for novice bakers.

Ingredients Needed for Soft Pumpkin Cookies

For the Cookies:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened (113g)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (100g)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (245g). Use canned for convenience or roast your own pumpkin!
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (300g)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda (5g)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (3g)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (1.5g)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (0.75g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (3g). A pinch of sea salt enhances the sweetness!

For the Cinnamon Frosting:

• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened (57g)
• 3 cups powdered sugar (360g)
• 1/4 cup milk (60ml)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (1.5g)

For the best flavor, use fresh spices and high-quality vanilla extract.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding – A Delightful Twist for Fall!

Essential Equipment List

• Baking Sheets: For evenly baked cookies.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and easy cleanup.
• Large Mixing Bowls: To combine wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Electric Mixer: Ensures a smooth and fluffy batter. A stand mixer or hand mixer works great!
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Wire Rack: Allows cookies to cool properly.

A cookie scoop is optional but helpful for uniform cookies.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is easily doubled for larger gatherings!

this …

Step-by-Step Instructions

For the Cookies:

1. Step 1: Preheat and Prep

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

2. Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

   In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer for best results, mixing for about 3-5 minutes.

3. Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

   Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Ensure the egg is fully incorporated for a smooth batter.

4. Step 4: Incorporate Pumpkin Puree

   Stir in the pumpkin puree until smooth. The batter will appear slightly curdled, but don’t worry, it will come together when you add the dry ingredients.

5. Step 5: Whisk Dry Ingredients

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the spices and baking soda.

6. Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.

7. Step 7: Drop onto Baking Sheets

   Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.

8. Step 8: Bake

   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures may vary.

9. Step 9: Cool

   Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking.

For the Cinnamon Frosting:

1. Step 1: Cream the Butter

   In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. This is the base for a luscious frosting.

2. Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar

   Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. This prevents clumps and ensures a smooth consistency.

3. Step 3: Mix in Milk, Vanilla, and Cinnamon

   Add the milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, and beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

4. Step 4: Adjust Consistency

   If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk until you reach the desired consistency. It should be easily spreadable.

5. Step 5: Frost the Cookies

   Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them generously with the cinnamon frosting. Enjoy!

CHECK OUT: Apple Cider Cookies Recipe – A Fall Flavor Explosion!

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough develops gluten, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter creams more easily with the sugars, creating a light and fluffy batter.
• Measure Accurately: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for baking.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Frosting cookies that are still warm will cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
• Adjust Baking Time: Oven temperatures vary, so keep an eye on the cookies and adjust baking time as needed.

For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt to the frosting.

Variations & Substitutions

• Cream Cheese Frosting: Substitute half of the butter in the frosting with cream cheese for a tangy twist.
• Maple Glaze: Replace the cinnamon frosting with a simple maple glaze for a different flavor profile.
• Chocolate Chips: Add chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a chocolatey pumpkin treat.
• Vegan Option: Substitute butter with vegan butter and use a flax egg. Ensure your powdered sugar is vegan-friendly.
• Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free, making it a great option for those with allergies.

Experiment with different spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique flavor.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Soft Pumpkin Cookies

• Warm Milk: Perfect for dipping and enhancing the cozy flavors.
• Coffee or Tea: Complements the spiced notes of the cookies.
• Apple Cider: A classic fall pairing.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Creates a delicious dessert sundae.
• Fall Gatherings: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any autumn celebration.

Arrange the cookies beautifully on a platter for an elegant presentation.

Health Benefits

• Pumpkin: Rich in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
• Cinnamon: May help regulate blood sugar and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Fiber: Provides some fiber for digestive health.

While these cookies are a treat, they offer some nutritional value from the pumpkin and spices! Remember to enjoy in moderation.

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Store the frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the cookies for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cookies (frosted or unfrosted) for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheating: If desired, warm the cookies in a low oven (300°F) for a few minutes to soften them slightly.

Cool the cookies completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that will alter the flavor and texture of the cookies. Use plain pumpkin puree for the best results.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that it will affect the texture and sweetness of the cookies. Start by reducing it by 1/4 cup and adjust to your liking.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too thin?

Ensure your butter is properly softened but not melted. Also, avoid overmixing the dough and chill it for 30 minutes before baking to help prevent spreading.

Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would be a delicious addition to these pumpkin cookies.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 Cookie
• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 35g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Total Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 3g

Exact nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more delightful treats? Check out these fantastic recipes:

• Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Icing – For a tangier frosting experience!
• Classic Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Topping and Maple Glaze – A perfect fall loaf!
• Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies – An irresistible chocolate twist!

Conclusion

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are a fast, flavorful, and utterly delightful treat that’s perfect for fall. Whip up a batch tonight and tag us with your delicious creations! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

Print