As the crisp autumn air begins to weave its way through the trees, I can’t help but crave the flavors of the season. My Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting capture that cozy essence, blending the rich sweetness of pumpkin with warm spices that warm the soul. Not only are these cookies incredibly quick to bake, but they’re also vegan-friendly, making them a guilt-free indulgence for one and all. The delightful, creamy cinnamon frosting takes them to a whole new level of deliciousness, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with your favorite hot drink. Let’s dive into this seasonal treat that will make your kitchen smell like a comforting fall haven—who’s ready to roll up their sleeves and bake something magical?
Why are these cookies a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and warm spices creates a delightful taste that sings of autumn, while the creamy cinnamon frosting adds an indulgent touch.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you’ll find these cookies perfect for busy bakers eager for a delicious treat.
Versatile Substitutions: Whether you’re gluten-free or vegan, these cookies can be easily adapted to fit your dietary needs, so everyone can enjoy them. Consider trying variations like the Pecan Pie Cookies for even more options!
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve warm with a cup of cider or tea, and you’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. These cookies are perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Nostalgic Aroma: Just imagine your kitchen filled with the scent of freshly baked cookies, instantly elevating your home’s autumn vibe. Don’t forget to check out my Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread for another recipe that captures that cozy essence!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients
• Everything you need for fluffy delight!
For the Cookies
- Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and a subtle sweetness; swap with applesauce for fewer calories.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Baking Powder – Ensures the cookies rise, resulting in a fluffy texture.
- Brown Sugar – Adds richness and depth; substitute with coconut sugar if preferred.
- Cinnamon – Imparts a warm spice; try a pumpkin spice blend for extra flavor complexity.
- Coconut Oil – Acts as the fat source; replace with vegan butter if desired.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor.
For the Frosting
- Cinnamon – Adds delightful flavor; mix with cocoa powder for a chocolaty twist.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the perfect baking environment for your Soft Pumpkin Cookies. While the oven heats, gather your mixing bowls, measuring cups, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will set the stage for the delicious aroma that will soon fill your kitchen.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to blend everything until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should look velvety and well-incorporated, creating a lovely base for your Soft Pumpkin Cookies.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the baking powder and spices, ensuring a fluffy texture. Once combined, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Scoop and Shape the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop generous amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each cookie with the back of your spoon for even baking. As you prepare to bake, admire the delightful, autumn-hued dough—a clear sign that your Soft Pumpkin Cookies are on their way to perfection.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and set around the edges. Keep an eye on them as they bake; they should spring back slightly when touched. The warmth of cinnamon will begin to fill your home, inviting everyone to gather around.
Step 6: Cool and Prepare Frosting
Once baked, carefully remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they’re cooling, prepare the creamy cinnamon frosting by mixing together your frosting ingredients in a bowl until smooth and fluffy, ready to top the cookies with sweetness.
Step 7: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous layer of the cinnamon frosting on top of each cookie using a spatula or a piping bag, creating a luscious finish. The creamy frosting will enhance the cozy, festive flavor of your Soft Pumpkin Cookies, making them irresistible to everyone who tries them.
How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Soft Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to preserve their soft texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: For extended freshness, place the cookies in the refrigerator where they can last up to 7 days. Ensure they are in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-top bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy a fresh taste, reheat frozen or refrigerated cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving. This will enhance their soft texture and delightful embrace of warmth.
What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
When the enticing aroma of freshly baked pumpkin cookies fills your home, it’s the perfect time to think about delightful pairings that elevate your experience.
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Warm Apple Cider: Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of apple cider, which brings out the spices and complements the sweetness beautifully. The warmth of cider harmonizes with the comfort of pumpkin cookies, creating a cozy treat.
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Cinnamon Latte: The rich, creamy flavor of a cinnamon latte perfectly matches the cookies’ cinnamon frosting. Delight in the soothing warmth as you sip and savor a sweet moment.
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Spiced Chai Tea: Add a touch of excitement with a cup of spiced chai tea. The blend of spices in the tea elevates the warm notes of your cookies, harmonizing the autumnal flavors.
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Cranberry Salad: A fresh cranberry salad adds a burst of tartness that cuts through the sweetness of the cookies. The vibrant colors and flavors create a beautiful autumn display on your table.
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Pumpkin Soup: For a warm meal addition, pumpkin soup is a perfect match! Its velvety texture and savory spices echo the flavors of the cookies, creating a delightful, comforting experience.
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Chocolate Drizzled Pretzels: For a sweet and salty balance, serve with chocolate-drizzled pretzels. The crunchiness offers a fun contrast to the soft, chewy cookies.
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Caramel Pecan Ice Cream: Indulge in a scoop of caramel pecan ice cream. The creamy, nutty flavor paired with the cookies will have everyone coming back for more.
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Maple Glazed Doughnuts: If you’re in the mood for extra sweets, maple glazed doughnuts are a delicious companion. Their rich flavors complement the vibrant pumpkin cookies, creating a dessert lover’s dream.
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Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream on the side adds a light and fluffy touch that enhances the overall enjoyment of your sweet treats.
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Autumn Fruit Compote: Top off with an autumn fruit compote made with pears and cranberries. The combination of fresh fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the warm cookies, enhancing their flavor.
Tips for the Best Soft Pumpkin Cookies
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Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Stir just until the dry ingredients are combined for soft pumpkin cookies.
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Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary, so use an oven thermometer to ensure yours is accurate. This helps prevent under or over-baking.
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Cool Completely: Let cookies cool on a wire rack before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and keeps it looking beautiful.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your coconut oil and other ingredients are at room temperature. This helps the batter blend smoothly for fluffier cookies.
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Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is delicious, don’t hesitate to try adding nutmeg or ginger to elevate the flavor profile of your soft pumpkin cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all your wet and dry ingredients and storing the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the cookies can be baked and stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days, keeping their soft texture intact. Just make sure to let them cool completely before storing to prevent condensation. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost them with your creamy cinnamon frosting just before enjoying for that fresh and delightful finish. This way, you’ll have scrumptious cookies ready at a moment’s notice, perfect for busy weeknights or surprise guests!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these Soft Pumpkin Cookies your own with these delightful substitutions!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Lower Sugar: Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a lower glycemic index treat, keeping the sweetness intact.
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Dairy-Free: Replace frosting with a coconut cream whipped topping for a vegan-friendly twist that’s equally indulgent.
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Spice It Up: Add nutmeg or ginger to the dough for a new layer of flavor, bringing the warmth of autumn even closer.
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Pumpkin Spice Lovers: Mix in liquid pumpkin pie spice for a flavor boost that enhances the cozy essence of your cookies.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent touch, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the frosted cookies. It pairs beautifully with the cinnamon!
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Fruity Twist: Substitute pumpkin puree with unsweetened applesauce for lighter cookies that still deliver on flavor and moistness.
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Cookie Sandwiches: Spread the frosting between two cookies to create delightful cookie sandwiches—a fun, shareable dessert that adds a playful twist!
These variations not only enhance the flavors but also allow you to cater to different dietary needs. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing these cookies with my Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread or explore the deliciousness of Pumpkin Pie Cookies for more autumn joy!
Soft Vegan Pumpkin Cookies with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! Look for pumpkin puree that is smooth and bright orange, avoiding any cans with dark spots or excessive liquid. Fresh or homemade pumpkin puree can also be used, but ensure it’s well-strained to avoid excess moisture.
What is the best way to store Soft Pumpkin Cookies?
You can store your Soft Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them for longer, refrigeration is a great option—just ensure they’re in a sealed container to maintain their softness for up to 7 days.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze your Soft Pumpkin Cookies! I recommend freezing them unfrosted. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw and frost them!
What should I do if my cookies are too dry?
If your cookies come out dry, it could be due to overmixing or too much flour. To ensure a moist texture, make sure to measure your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off, without packing it down. Also, keep an eye on your mixing to just combine without overworking the dough.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Absolutely! These Soft Pumpkin Cookies are vegan-friendly but do contain coconut oil, which is safe for dogs in moderate amounts. However, avoid giving anything with sugar or frosting to pets. If you have allergies, ensure to replace any allergens, like gluten, with suitable alternatives, such as gluten-free flour.
How can I modify the recipe for gluten-free needs?
To make your Soft Vegan Pumpkin Cookies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for binding. Another easy swap is to use almond flour for a nutty flavor, which works beautifully in these autumn treats!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting to Warm Your Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your mixing bowls, measuring cups, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Drop generous amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each cookie with the back of your spoon.
- Bake the cookies for 10 minutes, or until lightly golden and set around the edges.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Prepare the creamy cinnamon frosting by mixing together your frosting ingredients in a bowl until smooth and fluffy.
- Once cooled, spread a generous layer of the cinnamon frosting on top of each cookie.
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