Get ready to fall for these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting! 🍂🎃 These delightful treats are perfect for any autumn gathering, from Halloween parties to cozy family dinners. The warm flavors of pumpkin and spices complement the creamy cinnamon frosting, creating a cookie that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. And the best part? They are simple to make, making them an ideal dessert for both novice and experienced bakers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, these cookies come together quickly, perfect for busy bakers.
- Vegan-Friendly: Made without dairy or eggs, these cookies cater to various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive celebration or a quiet evening at home, these cookies fit right in.
- Frosted Delight: The creamy cinnamon frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness and indulgence.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process much smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper (or baking mat)
- Medium Cookie Scooper (optional)
- Piping Bag
- Wilton Piping Tip #2A
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Mixing ingredients becomes effortless, ensuring a light and fluffy dough.
- Piping Bag: This helps you apply the cinnamon frosting beautifully on top of the cookies for an appealing presentation.
- Baking Sheet: A must-have for evenly baking your cookies without sticking.
Ingredients
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) (for frosting)
– 1/3 cup brown sugar (for frosting)
– 3 1/4 cups powdered sugar
How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Step 1: Cream the Wet Ingredients
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: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients bowl. 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 30 minutes or overnight. Chilling is crucial for achieving soft cookies.
Step 5: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 °F (177 °C).
Step 6: Shape Cookies
Scoop 2-inch balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Press down to flatten them into disks as they won’t spread much while baking.
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, use an electric mixer or stand mixer with the whisk attachment to whip together all icing ingredients until fully combined. Cover with plastic wrap if preparing in advance.
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. Sprinkle with pumpkin pie spice before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are perfect for any fall gathering or cozy night in. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With a Hot Beverage
- Pair with coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the cookies.
- Enjoy with chai tea: The spices in chai enhance the pumpkin and cinnamon notes.
As Dessert Platters
- Create a dessert board: Add assorted fruits, nuts, and other treats to create a festive spread.
- Serve with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the cookies.
For Parties and Gatherings
- Offer on a cookie platter: Stack them high for an attractive display at parties.
- Pack in gift boxes: Wrap them up for your friends as a thoughtful Autumn treat.
How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
To make your soft pumpkin cookies even better, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your baking skills.
- Chill the dough: Giving the dough time in the fridge helps the flavors meld and improves cookie texture.
- Don’t over-mix: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies fluffy and soft.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures better mixing and fluffiness in your cookies.
- Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfect results.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add extra cinnamon or nutmeg for more depth in flavor.
- Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness longer.
Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
These soft pumpkin cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes, making your fall meals even more delightful. Here are some tasty options to consider.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness complements the cookies beautifully.
- Butternut Squash Soup – A warm bowl of soup adds a comforting touch alongside your sweet treats.
- Apple Crisp – The tartness of apples contrasts nicely with sugary flavors, creating balance on your plate.
- Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts – The maple accent brings out autumnal flavors that sync perfectly with pumpkin.
- Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad can lighten up the meal while adding crunch against the soft cookies.
- Cheese Board – Include various cheeses that pair well with sweet flavors for a savory twist alongside dessert.
- Homemade Granola – Add a crunchy element that is great for breakfast or snacking with your cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the chilling step: Failing to chill the dough can result in cookies that spread too much during baking. Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Stir until just combined for the perfect softness.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect ingredient amounts can alter the texture and flavor. Use dry measuring cups for flour and a liquid measuring cup for pumpkin puree.
- Ignoring baking times: Baking cookies for too long can make them hard. Start checking them at the lower end of the baking time.
- Using warm butter: If your butter is too warm, it won’t cream properly with sugar. Make sure it’s softened but still cool to the touch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing a lid on top to warm them gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting.
What makes these soft pumpkin cookies so soft?
The combination of pumpkin puree and vegan butter keeps these cookies moist and tender, ensuring a delightful texture.
Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?
Yes, you can substitute regular butter if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it will no longer be vegan.
How do I customize soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting?
You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried cranberries for an extra twist!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.
How do I store leftover cinnamon frosting?
Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Final Thoughts
These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Their versatility allows for various customizations like adding nuts or chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Indulge in the ultimate fall treat with these soft pumpkin cookies topped with creamy cinnamon frosting. These delightful cookies are not only bursting with warm spices and pumpkin flavor but also boast a light, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. Perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or cozy nights by the fire, this vegan-friendly recipe is easy to whip up, making it ideal for bakers of all skill levels. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or paired with a hot beverage, these cookies will quickly become a seasonal favorite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup vegan butter
- 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 (for frosting)
- 3 teaspoons vanilla paste (or extract)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon) (for frosting)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (for frosting)
- 3 1/4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Cream together softened vegan butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and vanilla until fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt.
- Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Chill dough for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Scoop dough onto parchment-lined sheets; flatten slightly.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes and cool completely before frosting with prepared cinnamon icing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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