As the autumn leaves begin to crunch underfoot, I find myself eager to embrace the warm, cozy flavors of the season. That's when I whip up a batch of Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting. These delightful cookies are not only a comforting treat but also an excellent way to use that pumpkin puree sitting in your pantry. With minimal prep time, you can satisfy your cookie cravings in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for a last-minute gathering or a peaceful afternoon at home. Plus, the maple frosting takes them to a whole new level, adding a sweet touch that’s simply irresistible. Ready to smile through the scrumptious flavors of fall? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
Why are these cookies a fall favorite?
Irresistible flavors: The warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves pair perfectly with the creamy maple frosting, creating a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds sing.
Quick and easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting when you have a craving or unexpected guests.
Perfect texture: Each bite offers a delightful chewiness from the oats, complemented by the velvety maple frosting, making them an unforgettable treat.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even a sweet breakfast treat alongside your morning coffee. Don’t forget to check out my other pumpkin-inspired treats like the rich and comforting Maple Bacon Cupcakes or the delightful Pistachio Cream Cookies for more tasty ideas!
Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Ingredients
• Dive into baking with these delightful Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting!
For the Cookies
- 1 cup butter, softened – This adds richness and helps create that chewy texture.
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar – Brings moisture and deep caramel flavor.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Balances sweetness and provides a slight crunch.
- 2 large eggs – Essential for binding and adding softness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree – The star ingredient, ensuring a moist, pumpkin-spiced delight.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure, balance the soft texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise to perfection.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds a warm, inviting spice that screams fall.
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg – A touch of nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves – For that rich, aromatic depth in every bite.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Elevates the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats – Adds chewiness and a wholesome heartiness to each cookie.
For Maple Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened – Gives a creamy base with a subtle tanginess.
- ¼ cup butter, softened – Ensures a smooth texture for spreading.
- 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetness overload for that dreamy frosting finish.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup – Infuses the frosting with irresistible maple goodness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Complements the frosting’s flavor profile elegantly.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Maple Frosting
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming, line your baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface for your cookies. This will help them bake evenly and release easily when ready, paving the way for your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential for creating the perfect texture in your cookies, so take your time to achieve that creamy consistency.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Flavors
Crack in the eggs one at a time, allowing each to blend fully into the mixture before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and the pumpkin puree, mixing gently until fully incorporated. The addition of these ingredients brings a warm, inviting flavor to your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies and adds moisture to the dough.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This process helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour. Once well mixed, gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix, as this can toughen your cookies.
Step 5: Incorporate the Oats
Gently stir in the old-fashioned rolled oats with a spatula until they are evenly distributed within the cookie dough. The oats add a delightful chewiness, which balances beautifully with the softness of the pumpkin and the rich flavors in your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a rounded tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop portions of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each cookie, about 2 inches, to allow for spreading as they bake. If you prefer evenly sized cookies, this method ensures a consistent shape and appearance for your batch.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes. The cookies are done when the edges are set, and the centers look slightly soft but not wet. Allow your kitchen to fill with the delightful aroma of pumpkin and spices as these cookies come to life!
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial; you’ll want your cookies to be perfectly set before adding the dreamy maple frosting.
Step 9: Prepare the Maple Frosting
As the cookies cool, prepare the maple frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined, then stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract until smooth. This frosting adds a sweet, indulgent touch to your cookies.
Step 10: Frost the Cookies
Once your cookies are completely cool, it’s time to frost them! Use a knife or piping bag to spread or pipe the maple frosting generously on each cookie. The sweetness of the frosting contrasts perfectly with the warm flavors in your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies, creating a deliciously festive treat that's sure to impress!
Expert Tips for Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
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Perfect Pumpkin Puree: Always use 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to ensure your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies have the right flavor and texture.
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Do Not Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy treats we desire.
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Cool Before Frosting: Allow cookies to cool completely on the wire rack before adding the maple frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and losing its creamy consistency.
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Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, opt for fresh spices and check their expiration date. Fresh spices enhance the warmth and aroma of your cookies.
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Chill the Dough (Optional): If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before scooping. This helps maintain their shape while baking.
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Storage Made Easy: Store your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh for up to 4 days.
How to Store and Freeze Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain their soft, chewy texture.
Refrigerate: If frosted, it's best to keep your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting refrigerated for up to 4 days. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the frosting from melting.
Freezing Dough: For make-ahead convenience, freeze scooped cookie dough balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
Baking from Frozen: When ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and add a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfect results!
What to Serve with Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting
Looking to create a delightful autumn spread that complements the sweet, spiced allure of these cookies?
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Warm Apple Cider: The perfect cozy drink, warm apple cider enhances the cinnamon and nutmeg notes found in your cookies, creating a nostalgic fall experience.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cold, smooth contrast that beautifully balances the warm flavors of pumpkin. Each bite is a perfect harmony of temperature and taste.
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Chai Tea: This spiced tea will echo the flavors in the cookies while providing warmth and comfort, ideal for cozying up on a chilly evening.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season fully with this iconic drink that melds perfectly with the pumpkin flavor in your cookies. It's like a hug in a cup and makes for a delightful pairing!
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Spiced Nuts: Crunchy, roasted spiced nuts add a lovely texture to your dessert table and mirror the flavors of your pumpkin oatmeal cookies.
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Pecan Pie Bars: For a rich dessert option, these bars offer a sweet and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the soft, chewy cookies.
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Maple-Glazed Carrots: On the savory side, these tender carrots with a sweet maple glaze complement the sweetness of the cookies without overwhelming them.
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Chocolate Milk: For a playful pairing, indulgent chocolate milk brings a nostalgic feel and a rich chocolatey taste that pairs surprisingly well with spiced desserts.
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Frosted Sugar Cookies: Want to keep the sweet vibes? Frosted sugar cookies add a delightful burst of color and an added sweetness to your dessert platter. Perfect for sharing or as a special treat!
By pairing these delightful options with your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting, you're sure to impress family and friends during your fall gatherings!
Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these tasty twists to make the Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delightful alternative.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and a flavor boost.
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Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives for a vegan-friendly frosting.
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Choco-Dream: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips or butterscotch chips into the dough for an indulgent touch.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for a surprising kick of heat!
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Maple Sugar Frosting: Replace powdered sugar with maple sugar in the frosting for an even richer maple flavor.
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Pumpkin Spice Swirl: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the frosting for an extra festive touch in every bite.
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Flavored Oats: Use cinnamon or raisin-flavored oats to enhance the flavor profile and create a warming treat.
Each variation provides a chance to create a new memory with these cookies. Try combining a few suggestions for a truly personalized experience! And when you're in a cookie mood, be sure to check out my fabulous Matcha Crinkle Cookies or the irresistible Brown Butter Toffee Cookies to expand your baking repertoire.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; just scoop the dough into balls and refrigerate in an airtight container. If you want to take it a step further, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. To maintain quality, ensure the cookies are completely cooled before frosting, and store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Enjoy warm, fresh cookies anytime with minimal fuss!
Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using 100% pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that could alter the flavor and texture of your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. Pure pumpkin puree ensures a more authentic taste and consistent baking results.
How should I store the cookies after baking?
To retain their delightful chewy texture, store your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days. However, if you've frosted them, it’s best to refrigerate them for up to 4 days. This keeps the maple frosting intact and fresh!
Can I freeze the cookie dough? If so, how?
Yes! Freezing the dough is a fantastic way to prepare ahead. Scoop the dough into rounded balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until firm, then transfer the cookie dough balls to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, just preheat your oven and bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly soft cookies.
What can I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies come out dry, it might be due to overmixing or too much flour. To avoid this, always mix the dry ingredients gently into the wet until just combined. If you prefer a softer cookie, you might even try adding a touch more pumpkin puree next time to enhance moisture.
Are these cookies pet-friendly?
No, your furry friends should steer clear of these cookies. The ingredients like butter and sugar aren’t suitable for pets, especially due to the frosting containing cream cheese. Always check your pet's dietary needs and refrain from sharing these treats!
Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures 1:1. Just be sure to check the brand for optimal baking results, as some gluten-free flours absorb more moisture than others.
Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Dreamy Maple Frosting
Equipment
- Oven
- mixing bowl
- Hand mixer
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- spatula
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup butter, softened This adds richness and helps create that chewy texture.
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar Brings moisture and deep caramel flavor.
- ½ cup granulated sugar Balances sweetness and provides a slight crunch.
- 2 large eggs Essential for binding and adding softness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree The star ingredient, ensuring a moist, pumpkin-spiced delight.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour Provides structure, balance the soft texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda Helps the cookies rise to perfection.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon Adds a warm, inviting spice that screams fall.
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg A touch of nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves For that rich, aromatic depth in every bite.
- ¼ teaspoon salt Elevates the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats Adds chewiness and a wholesome heartiness to each cookie.
For Maple Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened Gives a creamy base with a subtle tanginess.
- ¼ cup butter, softened Ensures a smooth texture for spreading.
- 2 cups powdered sugar Sweetness overload for that dreamy frosting finish.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup Infuses the frosting with irresistible maple goodness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Complements the frosting’s flavor profile elegantly.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt, then gradually fold into the wet mixture.
- Gently stir in the old-fashioned rolled oats until evenly distributed.
- Drop portions of cookie dough onto prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
- Cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter for frosting until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Frost completely cooled cookies with the maple frosting using a knife or piping bag.
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