Pumpkin Cookies with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting: An Irresistible Fall Delight!

As the leaves start to turn golden and the air grows crisp, my kitchen transforms into a haven filled with the warm, comforting aroma of fall. One of my absolute favorite treats during this cozy season are Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting. I remember the first time I made these cookies, it was on a rainy Saturday afternoon, and I could hardly contain my excitement. My kids rushed in from playing outside, their faces lighting up at the scent drifting through the house.

What makes these cookies truly special is not just their incredibly soft texture or their delightful blend of spices, but the memories they create. Unlike store-bought cookies that can be overly sweet and lacking in character, these homemade gems are made with love, and you can taste it in every bite. The softness of the pumpkin combined with the sweet creaminess of the cinnamon frosting creates a flavor experience that feels like being wrapped in a warm blanket.

Join me as we dive into this recipe that promises not just sweetness, but a slice of nostalgia and warmth. You’ll learn tips on how to whip up these delightful cookies effortlessly, bringing smiles—and perhaps even a few happy tears—to those you love!

What Are Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting?

Soft pumpkin cookies have a history that is deeply rooted in autumn traditions. Often baked during the harvest season when pumpkins are at their peak, they are not just a treat; they are a celebration of fall’s bounty. These cookies boast a soft, cake-like texture, thanks to the addition of pumpkin puree, which not only enhances the flavor but also keeps them moist.

Each bite is a symphony of cozy flavors: warm pumpkin, sweet cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla. What makes them unique is that they straddle the line between cookie and cake, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a relaxed afternoon snack, a holiday gathering, or a sweet surprise in your child’s lunchbox, these cookies are the ultimate comfort food, invoking memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations.

That’s why, this fall, it’s time to make these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are five compelling reasons why you’ll absolutely adore my Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting:

1. Flavorful Whimsy

Unlike mass-produced cookies, these homemade delights offer a burst of real pumpkin flavor combined with aromatic spices. You won’t find anything bland here!

2. Budget-Friendly

Making these cookies at home is a fraction of the cost compared to store-bought brands. Most ingredients are pantry staples, and you’ll be saving a trip to the bakery!

3. Customizable

I love experimenting with this recipe! You can easily swap in different frostings, add chocolate chips, or even incorporate nuts to suit your family’s preferences.

4. Easy to Make

Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is straightforward. With just 15 minutes of prep time and around 12 minutes in the oven, you’ll be able to whip up a batch in no time!

5. Wonderful for Sharing

Baking these cookies fills your home with an irresistible aroma that’s perfect for inviting friends or delivering a tasty surprise to neighbors.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting:

For the Cookies:

• 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened (I recommend Earth Balance for a buttery taste)
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (ensure it’s 100% pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed for added moisture)
• 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 (for extra softness)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon 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

Tools:

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

Prep Notes: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing, and measure your flour correctly to avoid dense cookies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Ingredients

In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy—around 3-4 minutes. This buttery mixture is the foundation of your cookies, so take your time!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt. This ensures that your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t over-mix—this is a common mistake that can lead to tough cookies!

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Chilling is crucial, so don’t skip this step if you want those soft, fluffy cookies!

Step 5: Preheat and Shape

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Scoop 2-inch balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and press down slightly to flatten them into disks, as they won’t spread much in the oven.

Step 6: Bake

Bake on the center rack for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet as they will continue to firm up slightly.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

In a medium bowl, whip together the vegan butter, vanilla paste, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar until fully combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until light and fluffy. If preparing in advance, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 8: Decorate

Spoon the frosting into a piping bag fitted with the Wilton Piping Tip #2A. Pipe a swirl of cinnamon frosting on top of each cooled cookie, starting from the center and moving outward. Finish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for that extra touch of sweetness.

And there you have it—your first batch of Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting!

Expert Tips & Tricks

To ensure you nail this recipe every time, here are some expert tips:

• Ingredient Temperature: Always bake with room temperature ingredients for the best texture.
• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Chill the dough: If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes in the fridge will make a real difference in the texture of your cookies.
• Frosting can be made ahead: Prepare frosting in advance and store it in the fridge, letting it come to room temperature before use.
• Watch the baking time: Different ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake.
• Troubleshooting: If your cookies spread too much, it may be a sign that the dough wasn’t chilled adequately.

Serving Suggestions

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are perfect on their own, but why not elevate them with a few serving suggestions? Consider pairing them with a warm cup of spiced chai or a rich, hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon treat. For a festive touch, serve these cookies on a beautiful platter with fall-themed decorations or at your next Thanksgiving gathering.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some ideas for variations:

• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies: Fold in vegan chocolate chips before baking for a delicious twist.
• Nutty Additions: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for stability.
• Alternative Frostings: Try a cream cheese frosting for a tangy flavor or a maple syrup glaze for a seasonal surprise.

Nutrition & Storage Info

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes (plus chilling time)
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
• Estimated Calories: 180 calories per cookie (calories may vary based on specific ingredients)

Storage Instructions: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. Alternatively, freeze for up to 3 months for those desperate moments of cookie cravings!

FAQ Section

1. 
   

   Can I use regular butter instead of vegan?
   Yes, you can substitute regular butter for a richer flavor; just ensure the proportions remain the same.

   
   
2. 
   

   What’s the purpose of cornstarch?
   Cornstarch helps create a softer, fluffier cookie by improving the texture and structure.

   
   
3. 
   

   Can I skip chilling the dough?
   While not recommended, you can bake the cookies right away; expect a slightly different texture.

   
   
4. 
   

   How do I know when the cookies are done?
   Look for lightly golden edges. The center may look a bit underbaked; they will continue to firm up while cooling.

   
   
5. 
   

   What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?
   For a different flavor profile, try using unsweetened applesauce or even mashed banana.

   
   
6. 
   

   Can I prepare the dough in advance?
   Absolutely! The dough can be chilled for up to three days before baking.

   
   
7. 
   

   How can I make these cookies dairy-free?
   Simply use vegan butter and ensure your baking powder is dairy-free as well.

   
   
8. 
   

   What if I don’t have a piping bag?
   You can use a zip-lock bag with a corner cut off to frost your cookies.

   
   
9. 
   

   How should I store the cookies?
   Store sealed in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh.

   
   
10. 
    

    Can I make these cookies larger?
    Yes! Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly—larger cookies may take a few extra minutes.

    
    

Conclusion

Cooking is not just about creating something delicious; it’s about creating memories and experiences, especially with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your fall traditions as it has for my family. I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out, so please share your feedback and comments! For more seasonal recipes that bring joy to your table, check out my blog for delightful autumnal treats like pumpkin spiced lattes and Apple Crisp Cheesecake. Happy baking!

Pumpkin Cookies with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting

---

• Author: chef caterina
• Total Time: 27 minutes (plus chilling)
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Incredibly soft, cake-like pumpkin cookies topped with a creamy cinnamon frosting. These vegan treats feature warm pumpkin spice flavors and a delightful texture that melts in your mouth.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cream together vegan butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes)
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt in separate bowl
3. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined
4. Chill dough for at least 30 minutes or overnight
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C)
6. Scoop 2-inch dough balls onto parchment-lined baking sheet and flatten slightly
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden
8. Cool completely on baking sheet
9. For frosting: whip vegan butter, vanilla, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar until combined
10. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until light and fluffy
11. Pipe frosting onto cooled cookies and sprinkle with additional spice

Notes

• Use room temperature ingredients for best results
• Do not overmix the dough to maintain soft texture
• Chilling dough is essential for proper cookie texture
• Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg