As the leaves transform into vibrant hues and the air begins to crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warm, welcoming scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. My love for autumn flavors inspired me to create these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of the season. Imagine sinking into a plush cushion with a hot drink in hand, savoring every sweet and spicy bite. These cookies are not only quick and easy to whip up, but they’re also vegan and gluten-free, allowing everyone to share in the joy of cozy gatherings. Whether you’re up for a baking session with friends or a quiet afternoon indulgence, these cookies effortlessly merge nostalgia with modern dietary needs. Dive into the delightful world of fall flavors—your tastebuds will thank you!
Why are these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting a must-try?
Cozy Flavors: These cookies encapsulate the essence of autumn with warm pumpkin and cinnamon notes, perfect for chilly days.
Vegan & Gluten-Free: Enjoy guilt-free treats everyone can savor, regardless of dietary restrictions.
Quick & Easy: Mix, scoop, and bake in under 30 minutes—ideal for spontaneous baking sessions!
Perfectly Soft Texture: Each bite offers a tender, cake-like softness combined with a luscious cinnamon frosting.
Versatile Enjoyment: Pair them with your favorite hot beverage or serve at gatherings for an instant crowd-pleaser!
Healthier Indulgence: Made with nutritious ingredients, they deliver sweetness without compromising on health—what’s not to love?
For a different twist, try adding chocolate chips for delightful variations!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Ingredients
For the Cookies
• Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor; choose fresh or canned based on availability.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; coconut sugar makes a great refined sugar-free substitute.
• Granulated Sugar – Contributes to the cookie’s texture and sweetness; adjust to your personal taste.
• All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-Free Option) – Forms the cookie structure; swap with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cookies rise perfectly.
• Cinnamon – Infuses warm, seasonal spice; feel free to adjust the quantity to suit your preference.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the overall sweetness.
• Oil (Vegetable or Coconut) – Adds moistness; for a lower-fat option, use unsweetened applesauce.
• Non-Dairy Milk – Brings moisture; options like almond, soy, or oat milk work beautifully.
For the Cinnamon Frosting
• Vegan Butter or Margarine – Creates a creamy texture in the frosting; make sure it’s vegan-friendly.
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create that lovely, smooth frosting consistency.
• Cinnamon – Adds a delightful warmth to the frosting; adjust based on your spice preference.
• Non-Dairy Milk – Helps achieve desired spreadability in the frosting; add more if needed.
Dive into the delightful world of these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting—perfect for celebrating fall flavors with loved ones!
How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and oil. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a sweet, fragrant base.
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Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This step is crucial to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices before adding to your wet mixture.
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Combine Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Gently mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough—this keeps the cookies light and tender!
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Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows them to spread without merging into one big cookie!
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Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
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Cool Down: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps maintain their soft texture and prevents them from breaking.
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Make the Frosting: While the cookies are cooling, cream together the vegan butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of non-dairy milk in a bowl until smooth and fluffy. Adjust the milk if needed for the right consistency.
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Frost and Enjoy: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous amount of cinnamon frosting on each cookie. Enjoy these delightful treats straight away or share them with friends!
Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped nuts on top of the frosting before it sets.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful cookies!
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Maple Glaze: Swap the cinnamon frosting for a smooth maple glaze for a unique flavor twist that celebrates fall.
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Chocolate Chips: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the dough for a delightful melty surprise in each bite. The combination of sweet pumpkin and rich chocolate is pure bliss.
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Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for added crunch and a heartier texture. The nuttiness complements the pumpkin flavors beautifully.
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Pumpkin Pie Spice: Instead of cinnamon, use pumpkin pie spice for a complex mix of seasonal flavors that deepens the autumn experience.
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Dried Fruit: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of tartness, balancing the sweetness and adding chewiness to the cookie’s texture.
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Coconut Flakes: Mix in unsweetened coconut flakes for a tropical twist; this adds a nice chew that contrasts with the soft cookie.
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Chili Flakes: For an unexpected kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the dough. The heat elevates the sweetness of the pumpkin, creating a fascinating flavor dance.
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Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for an extra fiber boost and a slightly nuttier flavor profile.
With any of these variations, you’ll create a new favorite that resonates with your family’s taste!
How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, preventing them from drying out while retaining their soft texture.
Fridge: If you want to keep cookies longer, refrigerate them for up to 7 days. Note that the frosting may soften slightly, so frost just before serving for the best presentation.
Freezer: To freeze, separate layers of cookies with parchment paper and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Reheating: Warm gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you desire that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth for your delicious Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting!
Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies
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Measure Flour Correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dense cookies. Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accurate results.
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Chill the Dough: For an enhanced texture and richer flavors, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This allows the spices to infuse beautifully.
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Adjust Frosting Consistency: If your cinnamon frosting is too thick, add a little more non-dairy milk until it reaches your desired spreadability, ensuring a smooth finish.
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Use Fresh Pumpkin: If possible, use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor—roasting the pumpkin brings out its natural sweetness.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies during baking; overbaking can result in dry cookies. Aim for soft centers with slightly set edges for perfect softness.
These tips will help you create the best Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients before refrigerating it in an airtight container. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. To ensure the best quality, scoop the dough onto the baking sheet when you’re ready to bake. Regarding the frosting, you can whip it up and refrigerate it for up to 3 days—just give it a quick stir before spreading it on the cooled cookies. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy irresistible cookies with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings!
What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?
Cozy up your autumn table with delightful treats that will perfectly complement these soft, spiced cookies!
- Hot Apple Cider: The warm spices in the cider enhance the cookies’ cinnamon flavor, making it a classic pairing for any fall gathering.
- Herbal Tea: A calming chamomile or spiced chai pairs beautifully, allowing the sweetness of the cookies to shine through alongside soothing sips.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream brings a delightful creaminess that contrasts the cookies’ texture and provides a refreshing twist.
- Roasted Nuts: Crunchy, spiced nuts add a satisfying texture and a savory element to balance the cookies’ sweetness.
- Maple Glaze Cake: Serve with a slice of moist maple cake for a delightful flavor combination that sings of autumn celebrations.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: A seasonal latte adds a rich and spicy note that beautifully matches the cookies’ flavor, perfect for a cozy brunch or snack time!
- Fruit Salad: A light, zesty fruit salad with citrus notes refreshes the palette and complements the rich flavors of the cookies beautifully.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling dark chocolate over the cookies adds a decadent element that will surely elevate the dessert experience.
- Caramel Sauce: A gentle drizzle of warm caramel elevates the flavors and offers an indulgent touch to each bite, perfect for those with a sweet tooth!
- Warm Milk: Classic and comforting, a glass of warm non-dairy milk brings a soothing, nostalgic vibe alongside your cookies.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh pumpkin puree or canned. If you choose fresh, select a sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin for the best flavor. Just roast it at 350°F (175°C) until tender, then blend until smooth. Canned puree is also convenient and works beautifully for that rich moisture!
How should I store the cookies?
Store your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to 7 days. However, remember that the frosting could soften a bit, so frost just before serving for the best texture.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer of cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let the cookies thaw at room temperature, which typically takes about an hour.
What can I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
Very! If your cookies are too dry, it might have been due to too much flour or overbaking. To avoid this, measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. If overbaked, reduce the baking time slightly next time—aim for soft centers and set edges!
Are these cookies safe for my gluten-intolerant friends?
Definitely! Using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour makes these cookies entirely gluten-free. Just be sure to check all other ingredients, especially baking soda and any additional toppings like chocolate chips, to confirm they are gluten-free.
Can I make these cookies without added sugars?
Of course! You can substitute brown and granulated sugars with coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free alternative. Alternatively, use mashed bananas or applesauce for natural sweetness, keeping in mind it may slightly affect the texture!
Delicious Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and oil. Stir until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined.
- Drop dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10 minutes until the edges are set but centers remain soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
- Cream together the vegan butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and non-dairy milk until smooth.
- Once cool, spread a generous amount of frosting on each cookie and enjoy.