As I pulled these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting from the oven, the kitchen filled with a delightful aroma that instantly transported me to cozy autumn days. These vegan and gluten-free treats are not just easy to whip up; they’re a scrumptious way to embrace the fall season. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, cake-like cookie, perfectly complemented by a swirl of creamy cinnamon frosting. It’s an irresistible snack for a chilly afternoon or a wonderful way to share love with family and friends. Plus, they’re guilt-free, making them a wholesome alternative to fast food cravings! Curious to learn how to create these seasonal delights? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are these cookies a fall favorite?
Soft, Tender Texture: Each cookie melts in your mouth, delivering a blissful experience reminiscent of warm autumn treats.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates an irresistible, cozy flavor that perfectly encapsulates the season.
Quick & Easy: Ready in no time, you can whip up a batch for unexpected guests or a cozy night in.
Vegan and Gluten-Free: Adapting to different dietary needs has never been this delicious, so everyone can indulge!
Perfect for Sharing: Whether at a gathering or just for yourself, these cookies bring joy and warmth, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Want more charming desserts? Try my Cake Mix Cookies for a cheery twist!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and flavor; substitute with applesauce for a fruity twist.
- Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
- Flour – Provides structure; opt for gluten-free flour to keep it gluten-free.
- Baking Powder – A leavening agent; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt brings out a more nuanced taste.
- Vegan Butter or Coconut Oil – Contributes richness and tenderness; applesauce can lighten it up.
- Plant-based Milk – Binds the mixture; almond or soy milk is a good substitute.
For the Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – Used for frosting; consider a sugar alternative for a low-sugar option.
- Vegan Butter – Ensures a creamy texture; can replace with coconut oil for a different flavor.
- Cinnamon – Adds flavor to the frosting, making it a perfect complement to the cookies.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for achieving evenly baked Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, so be sure the oven reaches the target temperature before moving on to mixing your ingredients.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, melted vegan butter, and your choice of plant-based milk. Use a whisk to stir these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will create a flavorful base for your cookies. Allow the vibrant orange color of the pumpkin to inspire you as you mix!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and ensures there are no lumps, providing a lighter texture for your cookies. Once combined, make a well in the center to facilitate easy mixing with the wet ingredients in the next step.
Step 4: Incorporate Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to denser cookies. The dough should be thick yet scoopable. This is the stage where your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting starts to come together, filling your kitchen with a delicious scent!
Step 5: Shape and Place on Baking Sheet
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for spreading during baking. Aim for a small flourish in the shape of each cookie! The round, fluffy dough is a promise of the delightful cookies soon to come.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. You’ll notice a subtle puffing of each cookie, indicating they’re nearly ready. To ensure they remain soft, be cautious not to overbake; the centers should still feel a bit soft to the touch.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period is essential for helping the cookies set while maintaining their soft texture, perfecting those Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting.
Step 8: Prepare the Cinnamon Frosting
While your cookies are cooling, it’s time to whip up the cinnamon frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, softened vegan butter, and a sprinkle of cinnamon until fluffy and smooth. The ideal consistency should be spreadable yet thick enough to hold its shape on your delectable cookies.
Step 9: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, generously spread the creamy cinnamon frosting over each cookie using a spatula or a butter knife. Feel free to get creative with your frosting technique. The final touch of frosting adds a beautiful, sweet layer to your Soft Pumpkin Cookies, making them utterly irresistible.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Now it’s time for the best part—enjoying your homemade Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting! Pair them with a warm beverage or share with friends and family. These cookies embody the essence of fall and are perfect for gatherings or quiet moments at home, bringing warmth and sweetness to any occasion.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients and storing the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the flavors mingling beautifully while allowing for a quick baking session whenever you need a warm treat. Additionally, frosted cookies can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to maintain that soft texture. When it’s time to enjoy, simply bake the chilled dough as instructed and frost once cooled—delivering that delightful homemade taste with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Airtight Container: Store your soft pumpkin cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to keep them fresh and soft.
Refrigeration: For extended freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Just make sure to keep them well-covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for longer storage.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply pop the cookies in the microwave for a few seconds or let them sit at room temperature for a while before serving.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Variations
Feel free to explore these fun variations and substitutions that add a personal touch to your Soft Pumpkin Cookies!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the vegan butter with coconut oil for a rich, tropical flavor. This swap keeps your cookies delightful while ensuring they stay dairy-free!
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Gluten-Free: Use a blend of almond flour and coconut flour instead of regular flour for a nutty flavor and to cater to gluten-free diets. The cookies will be just as delicious!
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Chocolate Chips: Fold in vegan chocolate chips into the dough for a burst of sweetness. The melty chocolate pairs beautifully with the cinnamon frosting, creating a dreamy treat!
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Maple Glaze: Instead of cinnamon frosting, drizzle a maple glaze over the cookies for a unique flavor twist. It brings an extra layer of fall goodness to every bite!
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Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and healthy fats. The nuts will create a delightful contrast to the soft cookies, contributing to both flavor and crunch.
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Spice It Up: Add a dash of nutmeg or ginger to the dough for an extra punch of autumn spice. This can enhance the spice profile and make the cookies even more aromatic!
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Pumpkin Pie Spice: Replace cinnamon with a pumpkin pie spice blend for a deeper, seasonal flavor. This substitution makes the cookies taste like a slice of your favorite pumpkin pie!
Feel inspired to take these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting to the next level? Don’t forget to try pairing them with a cup of your favorite herbal tea or coffee for an inviting experience that warms the heart. For more delightful recipes, check out my article on Cake Mix Cookies or learn about the Art of Balancing Cinnamon!
What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Indulging in these delightful cookies takes you on a cozy journey, perfect for heartwarming gatherings and brisk autumn days.
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Herbal Tea: The subtle herbal notes pair beautifully with the pumpkin spice, creating a soothing drink to complement the sweetness.
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Warm Apple Cider: A classic fall beverage, warm apple cider enhances the spiced flavors of the cookies, inviting nostalgia of cozy evenings.
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Vegan Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy, a cup of vegan hot chocolate provides a delightful contrast to the cookie’s fluffy texture.
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Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of nutty granola adds crunchiness, perfectly balancing the softness of the cookies with its hearty bite.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over these cookies for a decadent touch that elevates their sweetness to a whole new level.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the seasonal spirit with this favorite coffee drink, as its bold flavors harmonize with the cookies’ cinnamon frosting.
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Chopped Nuts: Almonds or walnuts sprinkled on top add texture and a unique flavor contrast, enhancing the overall experience.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of coconut whipped cream adds creaminess and complements the spices beautifully.
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Bourbon or Whiskey: For adult gatherings, a glass of bourbon on the rocks provides a sophisticated pairing that accentuates the warmth of the spices.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: If you’re in the mood for variety, serve these along with traditional chocolate chip cookies for a delightful dessert spread.
Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies
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Use Pure Pumpkin: Ensure you’re using pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices that can alter your cookie’s flavor.
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Perfect Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while baking. They should have set edges and a soft center for the ultimate texture in your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting.
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Chill Before Frosting: Let the cookies cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautifully spreadable layer atop your cookies.
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Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon in both the cookies and frosting to match your taste preferences, adding a bit more warmth or sweetness as desired.
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Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for 3-4 days, or freeze un-frosted cookies to enjoy later!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pumpkin puree for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for brands that contain only pure pumpkin with no added spices or sugars. A good visual cue is the color; it should be a vibrant orange. If you find canned pumpkin puree, check the label closely, as this will ensure you have the right one to create soft, flavorful cookies.
What is the best way to store Soft Pumpkin Cookies?
I recommend storing your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This will help keep them soft and moist. If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but make sure to cover them well to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze your unfrosted Soft Pumpkin Cookies! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them for a few seconds in the microwave before frosting.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If your dough feels too sticky, you can add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a scoopable consistency. Additionally, ensure that your measurements are exact, as the type of flour used can absorb moisture differently. Sometimes, resting the dough for about 10-15 minutes can also help with sticking before you scoop.
Are these cookies safe for those with nut allergies?
Be mindful! This recipe can be made nut-free by choosing plant-based milk options that are nut-free, such as oat or rice milk. Always check the ingredients of your vegan butter and flour, as cross-contamination can occur. If you plan to share these cookies, it’s a good idea to inform others about the ingredients used.
What can I use as a sugar alternative in the frosting?
For a lower-sugar frosting, you can use powdered erythritol or a date-based syrup as a substitute for powdered sugar. To create a frosting that’s both creamy and delicious, blend the alternative with a bit of melted coconut oil until you reach your desired consistency. Enjoy experimenting!
Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugar, melted vegan butter, and plant-based milk until smooth.
- In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Make a well in the center.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
- Drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, or until cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together powdered sugar, softened vegan butter, and cinnamon until fluffy.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, spread the cinnamon frosting over each cookie.
- Enjoy your homemade Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting with a warm beverage!
