Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Get ready to fall for these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting! These delightful treats are perfect for autumn gatherings, cozy evenings, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. With their soft texture and rich flavors, they stand out as a must-try dessert this season. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or enjoying a quiet night in, these cookies bring warmth and joy to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting flavor that captures the essence of fall.
• Soft Texture: These cookies are incredibly soft and chewy, making them irresistible right out of the oven.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving, or even as an everyday snack.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made with vegan butter and other plant-based ingredients, these cookies cater to various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, gather your tools! Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer: Makes it easy to cream the butter and sugars together quickly.
• Baking Sheet: Essential for even baking; choose one lined with parchment for easy cleanup.
• Piping Bag: Perfect for decorating your cookies with beautiful swirls of frosting.

Ingredients

Get ready to bake with these essential ingredients for your 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 Mixture

In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream together the softened butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until the mixture is 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 Together

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 and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Chilling is crucial for achieving perfect cookie texture.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).

Step 6: Form Cookies

Scoop out 2-inch balls of dough using a medium cookie scooper or large spoon. Press down slightly to flatten into disks. Place them a couple of inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake

Bake on the center rack for about 10–12 minutes. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet once done.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer with whisk attachment to whip together all frosting ingredients until fully combined. If you plan to frost later, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate.

Step 9: Decorate Cookies

Spoon icing into a piping bag fitted with Wilton Piping Tip #2A. Pipe the cinnamon frosting onto cooled cookies in a swirl pattern starting from the middle. Sprinkle some pumpkin pie spice on top for extra flair!

Now you have delicious soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting that are sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are a delightful treat perfect for any autumn gathering. You can serve them in various creative ways to enhance the experience.

For a Cozy Fall Dessert Table

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with autumn-themed accents like small pumpkins or leaves.
• Serve alongside warm beverages such as spiced cider or pumpkin spice lattes for a comforting treat.

As Party Favors

• Pack individual cookies in clear bags tied with twine for a rustic touch.
• Include a small card with the recipe, so guests can recreate the deliciousness at home.

With Ice Cream

• Serve each cookie warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
• Drizzle extra cinnamon frosting over the ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

At Halloween Gatherings

• Decorate cookies with festive icing colors to match Halloween themes.
• Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes and add sprinkles for extra flair.

For a Breakfast Treat

• Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea as a sweet morning treat.
• Add fresh fruit on the side to balance the richness of the cookies.

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How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

To achieve the best results when making soft pumpkin cookies, keep these tips in mind.

• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in soft and chewy cookies.
• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your spices and baking powder are fresh for optimal flavor and rise.
• Don’t overmix: Mixing just until combined will keep your cookies tender and fluffy.
• Monitor baking time: Ovens can vary; check your cookies at 10 minutes to avoid overbaking them.
• Cool completely before frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting and losing its shape, keeping it beautifully swirled.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

These soft pumpkin cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm, spiced drink that enhances the fall flavors of your dessert.
2. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy soup adds savory depth and balances sweetness perfectly.
3. Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts pairs well with sweet pumpkin treats.
4. Cheese Plate: Include nutty cheeses like Gouda or sharp cheddar for a contrast in flavors that works well with desserts.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with apples and walnuts adds crunch and lightness alongside your cookies.
6. Pumpkin Spice Granola: Serve it on yogurt or oatmeal for breakfast, echoing the pumpkin theme while providing texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Not chilling the dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the right texture. If you skip this step, your cookies may spread too much while baking.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and fluffy.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). An improperly heated oven can affect baking times and cookie texture.
• Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients ensure the best flavor and texture. Check expiration dates on baking powder and spices before use.
• Skipping the frosting: The cinnamon frosting takes these cookies to another level. Don’t miss out on this delicious addition!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and warm the cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds for a soft, warm treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat for a minute or so, turning frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting that might help you in your baking journey.

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

Yes, you can substitute regular butter if you’re not following a vegan diet. The texture should remain similar.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges should be lightly golden, while the center may look slightly undercooked. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to maintain similar texture and taste.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.

What other spices can I add?

Feel free to experiment with nutmeg or ginger for additional warmth and flavor that complements the pumpkin well.

Final Thoughts

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. They’re perfect for fall gatherings or simply enjoying at home with a cup of tea. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!