As I sifted through my pantry, the warm, earthy scent of cinnamon filled the air, conjuring memories of autumn days spent baking with loved ones. This is exactly the vibe you're going to bring with my Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting. They offer a delightful combination of comfort and festivity, perfect for anyone looking to bypass fast food and embrace homemade goodness. Whipped up in just 35 minutes, these cookies not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also offer a nutritional boost with hearty oats and pumpkin. Plus, the luscious maple frosting adds a creamy finish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with cozy aromas and happier hearts? Let's get baking!
Why are these cookies a must-bake?
Irresistible flavor awaits: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and maple frosting creates a sweet, aromatic experience that’s hard to resist.
Quick and easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, they come together effortlessly, making them perfect for busy schedules.
Wholesome ingredients ensure a treat that feels good—loaded with oats and pumpkin, these cookies are a guilt-free pleasure.
Perfect for gatherings: With about three dozen cookies, they’re ideal for parties or just a cozy night at home!
Comfort food at its best: Bring the warmth of fall into your kitchen all year round! Don't forget to check out our guide on baking tips for fluffy cookies to elevate your cookie game!
Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Ingredients
These delightful cookies are made with wholesome ingredients you likely have on hand!
For the Cookies
- Butter – 1 cup, softened for a creamy base that holds all the flavors together.
- Light brown sugar – 1 cup, packed to add rich sweetness and moisture.
- Granulated sugar – ½ cup, for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
- Eggs – 2 large, to provide structure and a light, airy texture.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, enhancing the cookie's depth of flavor.
- Pumpkin puree – 1 cup, which gives the cookies their signature taste and moistness.
- All-purpose flour – 2 ½ cups, the backbone of your dough.
- Baking soda – 1 teaspoon, helping the cookies rise perfectly.
- Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon, to infuse a warm, comforting aroma.
- Ground nutmeg – 1 teaspoon, adding a hint of spice that complements pumpkin beautifully.
- Ground cloves – ½ teaspoon, for a touch of warmth and complexity.
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon, balancing the sweetness.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats – 3 cups, giving them a chewy texture and nutritious boost.
For the Maple Frosting:
- Cream cheese – 4 ounces, softened for a rich and tangy frosting.
- Butter – ¼ cup, softened to create a smooth and luscious consistency.
- Powdered sugar – 2 cups, sweetening your frosting perfectly.
- Maple syrup – 2 tablespoons, infusing natural sweetness and flavor.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, enhancing the overall taste of the frosting.
These soft chewy pumpkin oatmeal cookies with maple frosting are a treat you won't want to miss out on!
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). As it heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This small step will make the cleanup easier later. The comforting aroma of preheating should start wafting through your kitchen, signaling that deliciousness is on the way with your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, packed light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This creates a luscious base for your cookies, contributing to their tender texture. You'll love the creamy, sweet smell filling the air!
Step 3: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Pumpkin
Next, beat in the two large eggs individually, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree, mixing until the ingredients are well combined. This step adds moisture and flavor, transforming your cookie dough into a vibrant orange hue that hints at the cozy spices to come.
Step 4: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. This step ensures that the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed throughout. The delicious scent of cinnamon will begin to fill the air, adding to your excitement about these Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, and you may still see a few flour streaks. This balance is key to achieving the perfect texture for your pumpkin oatmeal cookies.
Step 6: Stir in the Oats
Gently fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats with a spatula, ensuring they’re evenly distributed in the dough. This is where your cookies gain that characteristic chewiness. As you blend, watch for the oats to mingle beautifully with the orange dough, promising delightful flavors in every bite.
Step 7: Portion the Dough
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading. The rounded shapes will promise lovely, soft cookies. Make sure they look inviting—each scoop should be generous, ensuring ample cookie joy!
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake your cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the centers appear slightly soft. Look for a golden-brown color around the edges. They should feel firm to the touch but will solidify more as they cool. Your kitchen will soon fill with a warm, spicy aroma that’s hard to resist!
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial; it ensures that your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies firm up nicely, while the warm air continues to enhance their flavor.
Step 10: Make the Maple Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the maple frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. You’re creating a lovely base for your frosting that will complement your pumpkin cookies wonderfully.
Step 11: Combine Frosting Ingredients
Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating until well combined. Stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is smooth. This creates a delightful topping that adds a sweet touch to your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies after they've cooled down.
Step 12: Frost and Serve
Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe the maple frosting onto each cookie. The luscious layer of frosting adds the perfect finishing touch, making your cookies irresistible. Prepare for some delighted reactions as friends and family dig into these pumpkin delights, all thanks to your baking effort!
How to Store and Freeze Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, ready for snacking anytime!
Fridge: If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. Just let them reach room temperature before enjoying again.
Freezer: Freeze your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies by placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving for the best taste!
Reheating: To revive their freshly baked appeal, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will refresh their texture and bring that lovely aroma back to life!
Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Maple Frosting Variations
Feel free to experiment with these delightful variations to make these cookies your own!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese for a deliciously creamy option.
- Nutty Twist: Mix in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and richness.
- Spiced Up: Increase the ground cinnamon to 2 teaspoons or add ½ teaspoon of ginger for a warm, spicier flavor profile.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Stir in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to create a sweet contrast to the pumpkin flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to enjoy a gluten-free version while maintaining that soft texture.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Add 1-2 tablespoons of brewed espresso to the batter for a fun, caffeinated twist that pairs perfectly with the maple frosting.
- Coconut Flakes: Fold in 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical hint that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mix of cinnamon and sugar on top of the uncooked cookies for a crunchy, sweet topping.
These variations not only encourage creativity in your baking but also allow everyone to find their favorite version. When you're ready to elevate your skills, don’t forget to check out our baking tips for fluffy cookies for more excellent advice!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dry ingredients separately, combine them with the wet ingredients, and store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, allow the dough to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes and then proceed with baking as directed. The frosting can be made ahead as well—just store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the cookies' delightful texture, frost them just before serving, ensuring they stay soft and fresh. Enjoy these delicious treats with minimal effort!
Tips for the Best Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Mixing Techniques: Use a hand mixer on medium speed to cream butter and sugars until fluffy. This ensures a light texture in your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies.
Do Not Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until integrated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than the soft, chewy goodness you desire.
Oven Temperature Check: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F before baking. An accurate temperature will help your cookies rise perfectly and avoid uneven baking.
Cooling Time: Don’t rush the cooling process! Allow cookies to sit on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack, helping them maintain their shape and chewiness.
Frosting Technique: For a smooth finish, ensure both cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This will give your maple frosting a creamy texture that perfectly complements your cookies.
What to Serve with Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting
Nothing completes the cozy charm of autumn cookies like a thoughtful selection of accompaniments that enhance their celebration of flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness creates a delightful contrast to the spiced sweetness of the cookies. This classic comfort food adds a savory touch to your meal.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider evokes the essence of fall, complementing the pumpkin and maple notes in the cookies, setting a perfect holiday mood.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream melts into the cookies, offering a creamy finish that enhances their chewy texture.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A zesty fruit salad, packed with seasonal fruits like apples and pears, adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness and enriches the meal with vibrant colors.
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Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some nutty granola for an added crunch. The oats mirror the cookie’s texture while introducing a wholesome element, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
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Hazelnut Coffee: A cup of rich hazelnut coffee pairs beautifully with the soft chewy pumpkin oatmeal cookies, making each bite feel like a warm embrace. The nutty flavors elevate the overall experience!
Indulge in this delicious pairing adventure, and transform a simple cookie treat into a delightful feast that warms the heart!
Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for canned pumpkin puree that is smooth and dense without added sugars or spices. You can also roast and puree fresh pumpkin if you're feeling adventurous. When using fresh pumpkin, choose a smaller variety like sugar pie pumpkins, as they have a sweeter, more concentrated flavor.
How long can I store my cookies?
You can keep your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you'd like them to last longer, pop them in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before diving into them—you want that fresh, chewy texture!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
What if my cookies turn out too dry?
No worries! If your cookies come out dry, it could be due to overmixing or baking them for too long. Make sure to mix your ingredients just until combined, and then check your cookies at the lower end of the baking time (12 minutes) to ensure they remain soft in the center. If they seem too dry after baking, consider serving them with a dollop of maple frosting to bring some moisture back!
Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
These cookies contain common allergens like eggs, gluten from the flour, and dairy in the frosting. If you need to accommodate allergies, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water as a replacement) and use gluten-free flour or oats. For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives. Always check labels to ensure they're allergy-friendly!
How should I store the maple frosting?
You can store any leftover maple frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using again, or re-whip it for a few seconds to restore its creamy consistency. If you're planning to use it for more cookies, preparing a double batch would keep the cookie joy rolling!
Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting Bliss
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- Electric Mixer
- baking sheets
- parchment paper
- cookie scoop
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup Butter softened
- 1 cup Light brown sugar packed
- ½ cup Granulated sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 cup Pumpkin puree
- 2 ½ cups All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon Ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- 3 cups Old-fashioned rolled oats
For the Maple Frosting
- 4 ounces Cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup Butter softened
- 2 cups Powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons Maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Instructions
Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats gently.
- Drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until edges are set; they should appear slightly soft in the center.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- While cookies cool, beat cream cheese and butter for the frosting until smooth, then mix in powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Frost cookies once they are completely cool.
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