Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Get ready to fall for these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting! 🍂🎃 If you’re anything like me, you eagerly await the arrival of autumn and all the delicious treats it brings, and these cookies are at the top of my list. They are perfect for cozy gatherings, festive celebrations, or a sweet treat anytime.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Soft and Chewy: These cookies have a delightful soft texture that melts in your mouth, making every bite enjoyable.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as an afternoon snack, dessert at dinner parties, or even gift them to friends!
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe uses plant-based ingredients, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, you’ll need some essential tools. Here’s what you’ll require:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper (or baking mat)
• Cookie Scooper (optional)
• Piping Bag
• Wilton Piping Tip #2A

Importance of Each Tool

• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: These tools help achieve a fluffy texture by thoroughly mixing the butter and sugars together.
• Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents warping during baking.
• Piping Bag: Using a piping bag allows for precise application of the cinnamon frosting, giving your cookies a professional look.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting:

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

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Ingredients

In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream together the softened butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients bowl. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Chilling helps enhance the flavors and improve texture.

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 °F (177 °C) while you prepare to shape your cookies.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out about two-inch balls of dough using a medium cookie scooper or a large spoon. Flatten each ball into disks. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart.

Step 7: Bake

Bake on the center rack for about 10–12 minutes. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before frosting.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Frosting

In a medium bowl, whip together all frosting ingredients using an electric mixer until fully combined. If preparing in advance, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until needed.

Step 9: Frost Your Cookies

Spoon icing into a piping bag fitted with Wilton Piping Tip #2A. Pipe the cinnamon frosting on top of cooled cookies in a swirl pattern starting from the middle and moving outward. Optionally sprinkle pumpkin pie spice on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious soft pumpkin cookies!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are perfect for any fall gathering or cozy afternoon treat. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai complement the pumpkin flavor wonderfully.
• Hot Apple Cider: Serve these cookies alongside hot apple cider for a classic autumn pairing.
• Pumpkin Spice Tea: Enhance the pumpkin flavor with a cup of herbal pumpkin spice tea.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cheesecakes: Include mini cheesecakes topped with caramel for a sweet contrast.
• Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination pairs nicely with the cookies.
• Fruit Tartlets: Fresh fruit tartlets add a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the cookies.

For Special Occasions

• Halloween Treats: Decorate the cookies with festive sprinkles for Halloween parties.
• Thanksgiving Dessert Table: Arrange them on your Thanksgiving dessert table as a delightful option.
• Birthday Celebrations: Use them as unique party favors or dessert treats at birthday celebrations.

How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

To ensure your soft pumpkin cookies come out perfect every time, follow these essential tips.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling helps maintain the shape and texture of your cookies during baking.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use precise measurements to achieve the right balance of flavors and textures.
• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices enhance the flavor profile; consider using whole spices if possible and grind them yourself.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined for softness.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Ensure cookies are fully cooled before adding frosting to prevent melting.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

These side dishes pair beautifully with soft pumpkin cookies, enhancing their delightful flavors while providing variety.

1. Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: Crisp apple slices dipped in caramel offer a sweet crunch that complements pumpkin flavors.
2. Candied Nuts: Sweet and crunchy candied nuts add texture and richness to your dessert experience.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness mirrors that of the cookies, creating harmony on your plate.
4. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Cheddar Cheese Cubes: The sharpness of cheddar balances the sweetness, making for an interesting pairing.
6. Pumpkin Soup Shooter: A small serving of warm pumpkin soup enhances the seasonal theme and warms up your guests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your baking experience smoother and yield better soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Only mix until ingredients are combined for the best texture.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading while baking. Always chill for at least 30 minutes or overnight as needed.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the balance of flavors and textures. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Using Cold Butter: Softened butter is crucial for a fluffy cookie consistency. Make sure your butter is at room temperature before mixing.
• Baking on an Unprepared Sheet: Not lining your baking sheet can cause cookies to stick. Always use parchment paper or a baking mat to ensure easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers of cookies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Freeze un-frosted cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a container for up to 3 months.
• For frosted cookies, freeze them individually on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

You can use fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-cooked and blended smooth for similar results.

How do I make the frosting thicker?

To achieve a thicker frosting, gradually add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding nuts or vegan chocolate chips can enhance flavor and texture. Just fold them into the dough gently.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if you don’t have pre-made pumpkin pie spice on hand.

How long do these cookies last?

Soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting will stay fresh in an airtight container for about 5 days at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy nights at home. Their delightful flavor is versatile enough for customization—consider adding nuts or even swapping out the spices. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how simple and satisfying it is!