Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Get ready to fall for these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting! 🍂🎃 If you’re anything like me, you eagerly await the arrival of autumn and all the delicious treats it brings. These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday parties. Their irresistible flavor and delightful texture make them a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a deliciously comforting taste.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients ensure that even beginner bakers can whip these up effortlessly.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for fall celebrations, holiday parties, or as an everyday snack with your coffee or tea.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made with plant-based ingredients, these cookies cater to various dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
• Frosted Delight: The creamy cinnamon frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness that takes these cookies to the next level.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and make baking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper (or baking mat)
• Cookie Scooper (optional)
• Piping Bag
• Wilton Piping Tip #2A

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Makes it easy to cream the butter and mix the dough thoroughly, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
• Baking Sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly without warping.
• Piping Bag: Allows for precise decoration of the cinnamon frosting on each cookie for a professional-looking finish.

Ingredients

Get ready to gather all the ingredients needed for these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting!

For the Cookies

• 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

• 1 cup vegan butter, softened
• 3 teaspoons vanilla paste (or extract)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon)
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 3 1/4 cups powdered sugar

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream together the softened butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined; be careful not to over-mix.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Chilling is essential for achieving the right cookie texture.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 °F (177 °C).

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Scoop out 2-inch balls of dough using a cookie scooper or large spoon. Flatten each ball into disks before placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

Bake on the center rack for about 10–12 minutes. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet after removing them from the oven.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer with a whisk attachment to whip together all frosting ingredients until fully combined. If you’re prepping in advance, cover tightly and refrigerate until needed.

Step 9: Frost Your Cookies

Spoon icing into a piping bag fitted with Wilton Piping Tip #2A. Pipe swirls of frosting onto cooled cookies starting from the middle outwards. Optionally sprinkle some pumpkin pie spice on top before enjoying!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delectable soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting! Perfect for celebrating autumn flavors in every bite!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee – Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of coffee for a cozy morning treat.
• Chai Tea – Enjoy the spices in chai tea alongside the cinnamon frosting for a perfect match.
• Cocoa – A rich hot chocolate complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Cookies – Include other cookies like chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin for variety on your platter.
• Fresh Fruit – Serve with sliced apples or pears to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
• Cheese Board – Add some soft cheeses like brie for a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.

During Fall Celebrations

• Halloween Treats – Use these cookies as part of your Halloween festivities; they can be decorated with fun designs!
• Thanksgiving Desserts – These cookies make an excellent addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table.

How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

For those looking to refine their baking skills, here are some helpful tips to ensure your soft pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Chill the Dough – Refrigerating the dough is essential to achieving the right texture and preventing spreading during baking.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately – Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to maintain consistency in each batch.
• Use Fresh Spices – Fresh pumpkin pie spice will enhance the flavor profile of your cookies significantly.
• Test Oven Temperature – Make sure your oven temperature is accurate by using an oven thermometer; this ensures even baking.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients to keep your cookies tender and soft.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting can be even more enjoyable when paired thoughtfully with side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – This classic pairing offers a creamy balance to the spiced flavors of the cookie.
2. Caramel Sauce – Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies to enhance their sweetness and add richness.
3. Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast and brightens up your dessert table.
4. Spiced Nuts – Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and complement the cookie’s flavors beautifully.
5. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a balanced treat that pairs well with sweet desserts.
6. Maple Syrup Drizzle – A light drizzle of maple syrup can intensify the autumn flavors present in these cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting is a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling process can result in flatter cookies. Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to help them maintain their shape.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft, tender texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can dry out or undercook your cookies. Ensure your oven is preheated properly to 350 °F (177 °C) before baking.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Not using parchment paper may cause sticking and uneven baking. Always line your baking sheet to ensure easy removal and perfect cookies.
• Using stale ingredients: Old baking powder or spices can affect flavor and texture. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze without frosting and add it after thawing.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350 °F (177 °C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds on high for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, covering to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting:

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can substitute with gluten-free flour blends that are suitable for baking.

How do I make these cookies more flavorful?

Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra crunch and taste, or increase the pumpkin pie spice for more warmth.

Can I use different frostings?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or even simple powdered sugar glaze works wonderfully on these cookies.

What if I don’t have vegan butter?

You can use regular butter if you prefer, but it will change the recipe from vegan to non-vegan.

How long will these cookies last?

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting can last up to a week in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even experimenting with different spices. The combination of soft texture and creamy frosting makes them perfect for any autumn occasion. Give this recipe a try; you’ll be glad you did!