Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Get ready to fall for these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting! 🍂🎃 If you’re anything like me, you eagerly await the arrival of autumn and all the delicious treats it brings. These cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. Their unique flavor, soft texture, and delightful frosting make them a standout treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Vegan Delight: Made with vegan butter and no eggs, these cookies are suitable for those following a plant-based diet without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfectly Soft Texture: Chilling the dough ensures that your cookies come out soft and chewy every time.
• Customizable Frosting: The cinnamon frosting can be adjusted to your liking, making it easy to create your own signature touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand Mixer or Large Bowl
• Electric Mixer or Hand Mixer
• 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: Essential for mixing your dough efficiently and achieving a fluffy texture.
• Baking Sheet: A sturdy surface is crucial for even baking; parchment paper prevents sticking.
• Piping Bag: Allows you to create beautiful swirls of frosting on each cookie for an appealing presentation.

Ingredients

Get ready to enjoy these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting! Here’s what you’ll need:

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 Together Ingredients

In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream together the softened butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until 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 Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined; avoid over-mixing.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight. This step is important for achieving that perfect cookie 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 to flatten into disks. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.

Step 7: Bake

Bake on the center rack for 10-12 minutes. Allow cooling completely on the baking sheet before icing.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

In a medium bowl, whip together all frosting ingredients using an electric mixer until fully combined. If making ahead of time, refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 9: Frost Cookies

Spoon icing into a piping bag fitted with Wilton Piping Tip #2A. Pipe cinnamon frosting on top of cooled cookies in a swirl pattern from the center outwards. Sprinkle with pumpkin pie spice if desired.

Enjoy these delightful soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting during your next autumn gathering or as a cozy treat at home!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting can be served in various delightful ways. These cookies not only taste amazing but also look beautiful on any dessert table. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your fall gatherings.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
• The cinnamon frosting complements the coffee flavors perfectly.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with other fall treats.
• Include items like caramel apples or mini pies for variety.

At a Potluck

• Bring soft pumpkin cookies to your next potluck.
• Their unique flavor will surely impress your friends and family.

With Ice Cream

• Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream.
• The warm cookie and cold ice cream combination is irresistible.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Package the cookies in cute bags or boxes as homemade gifts.
• Add a personalized note for an extra special touch.

SAVE THIS!

How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

To achieve the best results with your soft pumpkin cookies, follow these tips. They will ensure every batch turns out perfectly soft and flavorful.

• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to rest in the fridge helps prevent spreading during baking, keeping your cookies thick and chewy.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices elevate the flavor profile. Always check expiration dates on your pumpkin pie spice.
• Don’t over-mix: Mix until just combined to keep the texture light. Over-mixing can result in dense cookies.
• Check doneness: Take them out when the edges are just set. They will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting pair wonderfully with various side dishes, making them perfect for any autumn gathering. Consider serving these delightful options alongside your cookies.

1. Apple Cider
   Warm apple cider enhances the fall vibe and complements the pumpkin flavors beautifully.

2. Cheese Board
   A selection of cheeses, nuts, and fruits adds savory contrast to sweet cookies, creating a balanced plate.

3. Pecan Pie Bars
   These bars offer another sweet option that pairs well with pumpkin flavors while being easy to slice and serve.

4. Sweet Potato Casserole
   This dish brings additional warmth and comfort, making it perfect for fall-themed meals.

5. Maple Glazed Carrots
   The sweetness of maple-glazed carrots adds a nice touch of earthy flavor alongside pumpkin treats.

6. Cranberry Sauce
   Tart cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast, balancing sweetness from both sides perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting can be a delightful experience, but common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to flat cookies. Always chill for at least 30 minutes to ensure the right texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can make cookies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for softness.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour will result in dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level technique for accuracy.
• Ignoring baking times: Baking too long results in hard cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove when edges are set but centers are still soft.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect the dough’s texture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.

SAVE THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Freeze cookies without frosting for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually for 10-15 seconds, but enjoy immediately after.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes while covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, we’ve got you covered!

How do I make soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting?

To make these delicious cookies, cream together vegan butter, pumpkin puree, sugars, and vanilla. Combine dry ingredients separately and mix until just combined before chilling the dough.

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

Yes, you can substitute regular butter if you’re not strictly following a vegan diet. However, it may slightly alter the taste and texture.

What other toppings can I use on my pumpkin cookies?

You can top your soft pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting or even a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for variety.

How do I store leftover frosting?

Store leftover cinnamon frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Rewhip before using again.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Final Thoughts

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Their fluffy texture combined with the sweet cinnamon topping makes them irresistible. Don’t hesitate to customize your batch with nuts or chocolate chips; the possibilities are endless! Try this recipe and enjoy a warm taste of autumn today!