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 Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), creating a warm environment for baking your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will help the cookies bake evenly for that perfect tender texture.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of sugar, ½ cup of melted vegan butter or coconut oil, and ¼ cup of plant-based milk. Stir these ingredients together until they form a smooth and creamy mixture. This combination creates the moist base that makes these pumpkin cookies so irresistible.
Step 3: Sift Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Sifting not only breaks up clumps but ensures your dry ingredients are well mixed. This step is crucial for achieving the soft texture of the cookies, so take your time to get it right.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing; you want a soft dough that retains some air for fluffiness. Once you see no dry flour, your dough is ready to be transformed into cookies that embody the essence of fall.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop and drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread while baking. Aim for uniform size for even cooking, which will leave you with perfectly soft pumpkin cookies.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the cookies for about 10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden at the edges yet still soft in the center. Keep an eye on them as they bake; remember, they will continue to set even after removal from the oven to ensure a tender bite.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period is essential for proper frosting application, ensuring it spreads smoothly over your Soft Pumpkin Cookies.
Step 8: Prepare the Cinnamon Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together 2 cups of powdered sugar, ½ cup of softened vegan butter, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until you achieve a fluffy and spreadable consistency. The frosting should be creamy and richly flavored, perfect for complementing the spiced notes of the pumpkin cookies.
Step 9: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, generously spread the cinnamon frosting over the top of each cookie. You can use a spatula or a piping bag for a decorative swirl. Let the frosting set for a moment before serving, allowing each bite of your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting to deliver that perfect autumn warmth.
Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies
-
Pumpkin Purity: Use pure pumpkin puree, as pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices which can alter the flavor and texture of your cookies.
-
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; cookies should be set around the edges but soft in the center. Overbaking will lead to dry cookies!
-
Cooling Process: Make sure to cool cookies completely before frosting. This prevents the icing from melting and ensures a beautiful finish on your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting.
-
Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the dough when combining wet and dry ingredients. This helps retain air, giving cookies their lovely fluffy texture.
-
Storage Savvy: Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can last up to a week in the fridge and up to two months when frozen.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the wet and dry ingredients and refrigerate the dough covered in plastic wrap. The frosted cookies can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best quality, frost the cookies just before serving to maintain that fluffy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious cookies, bake them fresh from the chilled dough and frost them for a delightful treat that feels newly made!
How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain their delightful softness.
Fridge: Refrigerate unfrosted cookies for up to a week. Be sure to keep them covered to avoid absorbing any odors.
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, in airtight freezer bags.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that warm, soft texture.
What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
These soft, spiced delights won’t just satisfy your sweet tooth—they’re the perfect addition to cozy gatherings and crisp autumn evenings.
- Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea enhances the cozy vibes, making for a soothing pairing that complements the cookies’ sweetness.
- Warm Cider: The spiced sweetness of warm apple cider creates a nostalgic fall experience, enhancing the pumpkin flavors beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast, offering a rich and indulgent flavor experience.
- Chai Latte: This spiced drink echoes the cinnamon notes of the frosting, making each bite and sip a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy apples and pears provide a refreshing crunch, balancing the softness and sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
- Chocolate Milk: A chilled glass of chocolate milk brings a playful sweetness that makes for a fun, nostalgic treat alongside your cookies.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: For the ultimate fall indulgence, sip on a pumpkin spice latte that mirrors the essence of the cookies themselves.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Variations
Feel free to customize these delightful cookies to make them uniquely yours—every twist adds a new layer of flavor!
-
Chocolate Chips: Toss in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an indulgent touch. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the pumpkin spice.
-
Nutty Crunch: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans. The added crunch brings a delightful texture contrast to the soft cookies.
-
Maple Glaze: Swap the cinnamon frosting for a maple glaze. Just mix powdered sugar with maple syrup for a sweet, autumnal twist.
-
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves. These aromatic spices complement the pumpkin and enhance the fall vibes.
-
Coconut Flour: Use coconut flour instead of wheat flour for a gluten-free version. Keep in mind it absorbs more liquid, so adjust your wet ingredients accordingly.
-
Dried Fruits: Mix in some raisins or cranberries for bursts of sweetness. Their chewy texture balances the soft, cake-like cookie perfectly.
-
Zest of Joy: Try adding the zest of an orange or lemon to the dough for a refreshing citrus lift. It brightens the flavor while staying cozy.
-
Frosting Swirls: Double the fun with a half-and-half frosting swirl—mix your cinnamon frosting with a simple chocolate frosting. It’s a delightful surprise in every bite!
These variations ensure that your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting remain a hit—no matter how you choose to make them. Whether you’re sticking to the classic or trying something new, these cookies are sure to impress your loved ones. For more sweet ideas, check out my Chocolate Chips Cookies or learn about the Art of Balancing Cinnamon for even more flavor exploration!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely, it’s best to use pure pumpkin puree for this recipe. Avoid pumpkin pie filling because it has added sugars and spices that can change the cookies’ flavor profile. Look for labels that list only “pumpkin” as the ingredient to ensure the best outcome!
How should I store my Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?
You should store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days to keep them deliciously soft. If you need to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just ensure they are wrapped or covered well to prevent them from absorbing odors!
Can I freeze the Soft Pumpkin Cookies?
Yes, you can! It’s best to freeze the cookies unfrosted for optimal texture. Stack them in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, and place them in airtight freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them at room temperature before frosting and serving!
What if my cookies come out too dry?
If your cookies are dry, it might be because they were overbaked. Keep an eye on them in the oven—the edges should be set while the centers remain soft. A good rule of thumb is to take them out as soon as they turn lightly golden. If they do become dry, you can try adding a bit of plant-based milk or pumpkin puree to the dough next time to increase moisture.
Are these cookies suitable for individuals with nut allergies?
If you’re looking for nut-free options, simply use a seed-based milk like oat or hemp milk instead of almond or soy milk to make this recipe nut-free. As for the flour, using gluten-free options like chickpea or coconut flour will also help accommodate various dietary needs, making these delightful treats accessible to everyone!
What can I do if I don’t have all the frosting ingredients?
If you’re missing ingredients for the cinnamon frosting, you can use just powdered sugar mixed with a bit of water or plant-based milk to create a simple glaze. Just add enough liquid to achieve a spreadable consistency. You could also blend in some maple syrup for extra flavor without needing all the traditional frosting ingredients!
Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of sugar, ½ cup of melted vegan butter or coconut oil, and ¼ cup of plant-based milk. Stir until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just incorporated.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop and drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for about 10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden at the edges yet still soft in the center.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together 2 cups of powdered sugar, ½ cup of softened vegan butter, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until fluffy.
- Once the cookies are cool, generously spread the cinnamon frosting over the top of each cookie.
