Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Get ready to fall for these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting! 🍂🎃 These delightful treats capture the essence of autumn, making them perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday parties, or just a sweet snack at home. Their soft, cake-like texture combined with creamy cinnamon frosting will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, they are easy to make and incredibly versatile. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a cozy taste that screams fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a festive celebration, these cookies fit right in.
• Vegan-Friendly: These cookies are made without any animal products, making them suitable for many diets.
• Customizable Frosting: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spice levels in the frosting to match your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, gather your tools. Having everything on hand makes 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 or Large Bowl: A stand mixer helps you cream butter and sugar efficiently, ensuring a fluffy texture.
• Baking Sheet: A good baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.
• Piping Bag: This tool allows you to beautifully frost your cookies with precision.

Ingredients

To create these delightful soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, gather the following ingredients:

• 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 (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 Sugar

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.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another 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 ingredients. 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 chill in the fridge for 30 minutes or overnight; this step is crucial for achieving the right 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 medium cookie scooper or large spoon. Press down gently to flatten each ball into disks. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet a couple of inches apart.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake on the center rack for 10–12 minutes. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before frosting.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Frosting

In a medium bowl, whip together all frosting ingredients until fully combined. If making ahead of time, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 9: Frost 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 before serving—enjoy!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Whether you’re hosting a fall party or enjoying them on a quiet evening, there are several delightful ways to serve these treats.

Pair with Hot Beverages

• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
• Tea: A warm cup of chai or herbal tea enhances the cozy autumn vibe.
• Hot Chocolate: For a decadent treat, pair these cookies with creamy hot chocolate.

Festive Platter

• Cookie Tray: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with seasonal accents like small pumpkins and leaves for a festive look.
• Gift Boxes: Package cookies in cute boxes for thoughtful gifts to friends and family during the holiday season.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream: Place a scoop of pumpkin spice ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert.
• Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A classic choice that pairs well with the cinnamon frosting, creating a creamy contrast.

How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Achieving the perfect soft pumpkin cookies takes just a little extra care. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out delightful every time.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps maintain their shape while baking.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your pumpkin pie spice is fresh for maximum flavor impact.
• Bake in Batches: If your oven has hot spots, bake in batches to ensure even cooking.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Letting the cookies cool completely prevents the frosting from melting off.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting can be enjoyed alongside various delicious side dishes. Here are some great options that enhance your dessert experience.

1. Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp adds a fruity contrast and pairs perfectly with cinnamon flavors.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, especially sharp cheddar, balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Caramel Dip: Serve with caramel dip for an added layer of sweetness and richness.
4. Pumpkin Soup: A savory pumpkin soup creates a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.
5. Candied Nuts: Crunchy candied nuts provide texture and complement the softness of the cookies.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and earthy flavor pair nicely with pumpkin treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to ensure they hold their shape.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too vigorously can result in tough cookies. Mix until ingredients are just combined for a soft texture.
• Using incorrect measurements: Baking is a science, and precise measurements are key. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 350 °F (177 °C). An uncalibrated oven might cause uneven baking.
• Neglecting cooling time: Allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to an airtight container; cookies keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 300 °F (150 °C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, until just heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but make sure it’s pureed and not too watery. Drain any excess moisture before using.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Cookies should look set around the edges but still soft in the center. A light golden color is a good indicator of doneness.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like traditional flour.

What can I substitute for vegan butter?

You can use coconut oil or any plant-based margarine if you prefer an alternative to vegan butter.

How should I store leftover frosting?

Store any leftover cinnamon frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Just re-whip before using again!

Final Thoughts

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are not only delightful but also versatile! You can customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or different spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try this fall, and enjoy a cozy treat that’s perfect for sharing!