There’s something magical about walking into a kitchen filled with the warm, spicy aroma of fresh-baked cookies. As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, I find myself reaching for my favorite fall flavors. Today, I'm excited to share my recipe for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, a delightful treat that’s not only quick to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. These cookies are incredibly soft and topped with a creamy cinnamon frosting that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for those cozy gatherings or just a sweet afternoon snack, they’re also easy to store for later indulgence. Ready to fill your kitchen with the scent of fall? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why are These Cookies so Irresistible?
Soft as a cloud: The unique blend of pumpkin puree and coconut oil results in a texture that's unbelievably tender.
Decadent flavor: With warm cinnamon and sweet maple syrup, these cookies are a seasonal delight.
Quick to make: In just about 20 minutes, you’ll savor these scrumptious cookies fresh from the oven!
Versatile treat: Perfect for parties, cozy nights in, or gifting, these cookies are sure to impress everyone.
Store easily: Wondering how to keep them fresh? Check out my tips for storing cookies effectively for your next batch!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Ingredients
For the Cookies
• Coconut oil – enhances the moisture, making the cookies irresistibly soft.
• Almond milk – adds a nutty flavor, but can be substituted with any milk of your choice.
• Maple syrup – sweetens naturally; feel free to use honey if you prefer.
• Pumpkin puree – the star ingredient for a deliciously rich flavor and vibrant color!
• All-purpose flour – provides structure; whole wheat flour can be a healthier alternative.
• Brown sugar – brings depth and moisture, perfect for that holiday flavor.
• Granulated sugar – balances the sweetness; substitute it with coconut sugar if desired.
• Cinnamon – adds warmth and spice, truly enhancing the fall essence of these cookies.
• Baking soda – helps the cookies rise to their fluffy perfection.
• Baking powder – ensures they turn out light and airy.
• Salt – enhances all the flavors, so don’t skip this vital ingredient!
For the Cinnamon Frosting
• Cream cheese – a rich base for the frosting, giving it a lovely, creamy texture.
• Butter – adds a lovely richness; make sure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Powdered sugar – perfect for sweetness and achieving that light, fluffy consistency.
• Cinnamon – ties the frosting flavor back to the cookie for a perfect harmony!
• Vanilla extract – a splash rounds out the flavor beautifully, making it utterly delicious.
Let the enchanting blend of flavors and soothing aromas of these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting fill your home with warmth and joy!
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). This ensures a perfectly warm environment for baking, helping your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting rise beautifully. While the oven heats up, gather your mixing bowls and baking sheets to keep everything organized for the next steps.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of melted coconut oil, ¼ cup of almond milk, ¼ cup of maple syrup, and ½ cup of pumpkin puree. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well blended, ensuring there are no lumps. This mixture will create a moist and flavorful base for your cookies, capturing that delightful pumpkin essence.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of brown sugar, ⅓ cup of granulated sugar, ¾ teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mixing the dry ingredients ensures even distribution of flavors and helps the cookies achieve their soft texture.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring gently. Mix just until combined, avoiding overmixing to keep your Soft Pumpkin Cookies tender. The dough should be slightly sticky and thick, hinting at the wonderful softness they will have once baked.
Step 5: Form the Cookies
Using a spoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of the dough onto a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows room for each cookie to spread while baking, ensuring they all have room to puff up into soft delights. You should see a beautiful orange hue from the pumpkin shining through.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies, looking for slightly golden edges, which indicate they are ready to come out. The centers should appear set but still soft—perfectly moist and chewy.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial as it prevents the frosting from melting later, allowing your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting to maintain their lovely shape and texture.
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; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can also bake the cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature or up to 7 days in the fridge. To maintain their soft texture, ensure they are completely cooled before storing. When you’re ready to enjoy, frost the cookies with the cinnamon frosting for a delicious finish. This makes it easy to impress guests or indulge in a sweet treat, all without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, keep the cookies in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for up to 7 days. Just be sure to seal them properly.
Freezer: For even longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cookies or dough for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking or frosting.
Reheating: If you're enjoying leftovers, warm the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that freshly baked experience.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies Variations
Indulge your creativity and make these cookies uniquely yours with simple swaps and twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a delicious alternative.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of almond milk and vegan butter for the frosting, making it completely dairy-free.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dough for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
- Add Nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the cookies.
- Chocolate Chunks: Swap a portion of flour for cocoa powder and mix in dark chocolate chunks for a tasty twist on flavors.
- Frosting Alternatives: Instead of cinnamon frosting, try a maple glaze for a sweet, aromatic finish.
- Pumpkin Spice: Include pumpkin spice blend in the dough for an intense fall flavor and cozy aroma.
- Cranberry Orange: Incorporate dried cranberries and a splash of orange zest into the mixture for a refreshing taste.
No matter how you choose to customize these cookies, they are sure to keep that enchanting fall vibe alive. For more great storage tips, don’t miss my advice on keeping your cookies fresh for those seemingly endless autumn evenings! And if you’re looking for the perfect pairing for these soft delights, take a moment to explore how to serve them with a warm cup of apple cider for a truly heartwarming experience!
What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
There’s nothing quite like pairing your freshly baked cookies with delightful complements that enhance their warm, spiced flavors.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes create a lovely contrast to the sweetness of your cookies and offer a cozy, comforting feel.
- Cider-Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of the glazed carrots beautifully mirrors the pumpkin flavors in the cookies while adding vibrant color to your plate.
- Apple Crisp: An irresistible dessert that echoes the autumn theme, its warm spices make it a perfect follow-up to your pumpkin cookies.
- Hot Apple Cider: This warm drink elevates your snack time, offering a spiced, sweet balance that flows beautifully with the flavors of the cookies.
- Maple-Walnut Salad: A fresh salad drizzled with a maple vinaigrette adds brightness and crunch, breaking up the sweetness of the cookies wonderfully.
- Pecan Pie Bites: These mini pie delights with a nutty filling offer a rich, satisfying contrast, making for an enjoyable dessert spread.
Each of these pairings creates a delightful experience, allowing the soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting to shine even brighter at your gathering!
Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies
• Use Fresh Pumpkin: For a richer flavor, opt for fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned; it can elevate your Soft Pumpkin Cookies significantly.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to maintain the cookies' tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Measure Flour Properly: Use a spoon to scoop flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Incorrect measurements can lead to dry or dense cookies.
• Chill the Dough: If your dough seems too sticky, chilling it for 15-20 minutes can make it easier to handle and improve cookie texture once baked.
• Perfectly Frosted: Ensure your cookies are completely cool before frosting. This keeps the frosting intact and fluffy on your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, I recommend using pure pumpkin puree. You can use canned for convenience, but if you're up for it, making your own from fresh pumpkin can elevate the taste and results—it’s truly worth it!
How should I store the cookies after baking?
To keep your cookies nice and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you'd like to extend their shelf life, the fridge is a great option, where they can happily last up to 7 days. Just be sure they’re sealed well to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?
Very! If you want to enjoy your cookies later, I suggest freezing unfrosted cookies or even the cookie dough itself. To freeze, wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
What if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies come out dry, it’s often due to overmixing the dough or using too much flour. I recommend measuring flour by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling off with a knife. Also, try to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined to keep that wonderful softness.
Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you or your loved ones have dietary restrictions, consider using alternatives: swap almond milk with oat or soy milk for dairy-free options. And, if allergies are a concern, ensure your coconut oil and other ingredients are free from cross-contamination.
How long can I keep the cookie dough in the fridge before baking?
I often find that cookie dough can be stored in the fridge for about 1-2 days before baking it. Just cover it tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container. If you notice it’s a little sticky after being in the fridge, a brief chill in the freezer for 10-15 minutes can make it easier to scoop!
Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Equipment
- mixing bowls
- baking sheets
- whisk
- Spoon
- wire rack
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- ½ cup coconut oil melted
- ¼ cup almond milk or any milk of choice
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar or coconut sugar
- ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup butter room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine melted coconut oil, almond milk, maple syrup, and pumpkin puree. Whisk until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Drop heaping spoonfuls of the dough onto a lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are slightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Frosting Instructions
- Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract; mix until well blended.
- Frost cooled cookies with the cinnamon frosting.
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