Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting bring together the warm, comforting flavors of fall in one irresistibly soft and flavorful treat. These cookies perfectly blend the rich taste of pumpkin with gentle spices and a creamy cinnamon frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or craving a cozy homemade dessert, this recipe offers a delightful balance of sweetness, spice, and softness that makes every bite memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Fall Flavor: Combines pumpkin and classic autumn spices for a seasonal favorite that warms the heart.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies stay tender and moist, not dry, making each bite a pleasant experience.
• Creamy Cinnamon Frosting Boost: The frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness and spice that perfectly complements the pumpkin base.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and easy-to-find pumpkin puree, so baking is straightforward and fuss-free.
• Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for holiday gatherings, casual afternoons, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work together simply and beautifully to create the ideal texture, flavor, and appearance in your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting. Each one plays a key role, from the moist pumpkin puree to the warm spices and creamy frosting base.

• Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and that iconic pumpkin taste.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure while keeping the cookies soft and tender.
• Brown Sugar: Enhances moisture and adds a subtle caramel flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon: Gives warmth and depth to both the cookies and frosting.
• Nutmeg and Ginger: Boost the autumnal spice profile without overpowering.
• Baking Soda and Baking Powder: Help the cookies rise perfectly and maintain softness.
• Butter: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Egg: Binds everything together and tenderizes the dough.
• Powdered Sugar: Essential for a smooth, creamy frosting with just the right sweetness.
• Cream Cheese (optional): For a tangier, richer frosting if you want to elevate the classic cinnamon flavor.

Variations for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Feel free to make this recipe your own! These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are incredibly flexible, so you can adjust ingredients and flavors to suit dietary needs or your personal palate.

• Gluten-Free Version: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that matches weight-for-weight to keep the softness intact.
• Vegan Cookies: Use coconut oil instead of butter, flax eggs to replace real eggs, and a dairy-free cream cheese for frosting.
• Spice Boost: Add a pinch of cloves or cardamom for a deeper, more complex spice mix without overpowering the main flavors.
• Nutty Twist: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and a toasty flavor layer.
• Maple Cinnamon Frosting: Substitute part of the powdered sugar with maple syrup for a naturally sweet, autumn-inspired frosting twist.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by creaming softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and pumpkin puree until fully combined. In a separate bowl, whisk the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix gently until just combined to keep the dough tender.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop the dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, placing them about 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten each ball with your hand or a spoon, then bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.

Step 3: Cool the Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important because the cookies firm slightly as they cool but stay wonderfully soft.

Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Frosting

While the cookies are cooling, beat softened butter (and cream cheese if using) with cinnamon and powdered sugar until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Adjust consistency with a little milk if needed, aiming for a spreadable yet thick frosting.

Step 5: Frost and Serve

Once cookies are completely cooled, generously spread the cinnamon frosting on top of each one. Serve immediately or store for later—the frosting stays luscious and the cookies stay soft even after refrigeration.

Pro Tips for Making Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures better mixing and a smoother texture in both cookies and frosting.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Helps keep the cookies tender instead of tough or dense.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid a dry, crumbly cookie.
• Bake Until Just Set: Remove cookies when edges are firm but centers look slightly underbaked for ultimate softness.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off the cookies.
• Customize Frosting Thickness: Add milk or powdered sugar gradually to get your favorite frosting consistency.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Garnishes

Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the frosting, or add a few finely chopped toasted nuts for a delightful textural contrast and a hint of nuttiness that complements the warm spices.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cup of hot spiced chai, pumpkin spice latte, or a simple glass of cold milk to balance the sweet and spicy notes. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can also elevate the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden tray with fall-themed decor like cinnamon sticks and autumn leaves. For parties, create a cookie stack tied with twine or gift them packaged in decorated boxes or mason jars for delightful homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain softness and freshness.

Freezing

Freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Frost them after thawing for best results to keep the frosting fresh and creamy.

Reheating

Warm cookies gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before frosting to refresh their softness, or enjoy them chilled for a different but equally delicious texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin or fresh pumpkin puree?

Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is more convenient, but fresh pumpkin puree can be used if cooked and strained properly to achieve a similar texture and flavor.

How do I make the cinnamon frosting dairy-free?

Substitute butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil and use a dairy-free cream cheese or omit it completely, adjusting powdered sugar and liquid for the right consistency.

Why are my cookies not soft after baking?

Overbaking or using too much flour can make cookies dry and hard—be sure to bake just until the edges are set and centers still look slightly undone, and measure flour carefully.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! Bake the cookies a day ahead, store them in an airtight container, and frost just before serving to keep them fresh and visually appealing.

Are these cookies good for freezing?

Yes, they freeze really well. Freeze the unfrosted cookies first, then frost after thawing, so the frosting stays fresh and creamy.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly comforting about Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting. They capture all the best flavors of fall in one bite—soft, sweet, and warmly spiced, topped with a creamy, cinnamon-spiked frosting that makes you want to bake them again and again. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a little slice of cozy happiness anytime you need it.

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