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 anticipate the arrival of autumn and all the delicious treats it brings. These cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings, Halloween parties, or simply as a delightful afternoon snack. Their soft texture paired with creamy cinnamon frosting makes them stand out among other fall desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a warm and inviting taste that captures the essence of autumn.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these cookies is a breeze, even for beginners.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made with vegan butter and no eggs, this recipe allows everyone to indulge without compromising their dietary choices.
• Stunning Presentation: The beautiful swirl of cinnamon frosting on top not only tastes great but also looks delightful on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand Mixer or Large Bowl
• Electric Hand Mixer (optional)
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper (or Baking Mat)
• Cookie Scooper (optional)
• Piping Bag
• Wilton Piping Tip #2A

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer: This tool makes it easy to cream ingredients together effectively, ensuring a light and fluffy cookie batter.
• Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet helps distribute heat evenly, resulting in perfectly baked cookies.
• Piping Bag: Using a piping bag allows for precise decoration of the frosting, enhancing the visual appeal of your cookies.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting:

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 vegan butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate 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 mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep your cookies soft.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Chilling is crucial for achieving the right texture.

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 °F (177 °C) while waiting for your dough to chill.

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Scoop out 2-inch balls of dough using a medium cookie scooper or large spoon. Flatten each ball into disks as they won’t spread much during baking. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet a couple of inches apart.

Step 7: Bake

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

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer or a stand mixer with the whisk attachment to whip together all frosting ingredients until fully combined. If you plan to frost later, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready.

Step 9: Frost Your Cookies

Spoon icing into a piping bag fitted with Wilton Piping Tip #2A. Pipe swirls of cinnamon frosting on top of each cooled cookie. For an extra touch, sprinkle some pumpkin pie spice on top. Enjoy!

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are sure to become a favorite in your fall repertoire!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are perfect for any fall gathering or cozy evening at home. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee perfectly complements the spices in the cookies.
• Hot Chocolate: A sweet and creamy hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin flavor.
• Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea enhance the comforting taste of the cookies.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment: Serve alongside other fall-themed treats like pecan pie bars or apple cider donuts for variety.
• Fruit Bowl: Fresh fruits like apples and pears add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
• Cheese Board: Include some mild cheeses for a savory balance against the sweet cookies.

For Special Occasions

• Halloween Parties: Decorate these cookies with festive sprinkles for Halloween-themed celebrations.
• Thanksgiving Dessert Table: Add these cookies as a delightful option on your holiday dessert spread.

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How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

To ensure your soft pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Chill Your Dough: Chilling helps firm up the dough, which prevents spreading and ensures a thick, soft cookie.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your pumpkin puree and spices are fresh for optimal flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be set but still soft in the center.
• Let Cool Completely: Allowing them to cool completely before frosting keeps the icing from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

These soft pumpkin cookies are delightful on their own, but pairing them with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Apple Crisp – A warm apple crisp offers contrasting textures that complement the softness of the cookies.
2. Cranberry Sauce – The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a nice balance to the sweet flavors of pumpkin.
3. Pecan Pie – Rich and nutty pecan pie creates a wonderful harmony with the warm spices in the cookies.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that enhances each bite of cookie.
5. Maple Syrup Drizzle – A light drizzle brings additional sweetness and pairs perfectly with pumpkin flavors.
6. Spiced Nuts – Crunchy spiced nuts add texture and tie in seasonal flavors that go well with pumpkin desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Not Chilling the Dough: Chilling is crucial for soft pumpkin cookies. Skipping this step can lead to flat cookies that lack the desired texture. Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and fluffy.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can ruin your cookies. Always use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Baking without parchment paper may cause sticking or uneven baking. Use it for easy cookie removal and better results.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Accurate measurements are key in baking. Always use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precision.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store soft pumpkin cookies in an airtight container.
• They can last in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container, where they will stay fresh for up to three months.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting vegan?

These cookies are made using vegan butter and pumpkin puree instead of eggs or dairy, making them suitable for those following a plant-based diet.

How should I store my soft pumpkin cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I customize the frosting on my soft pumpkin cookies?

Absolutely! You can add flavors like maple or vanilla extract, or even mix in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips.

How do I know when my soft pumpkin cookies are done baking?

The edges should be set and lightly golden while the center remains soft. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

Soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with different spices or toppings based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try this fall season, and enjoy the cozy flavors of autumn in every bite!