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 not just a seasonal delight; they are soft, flavorful, and perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with your favorite warm beverage.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that’s perfect for fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are ideal for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even as part of a festive platter during celebrations.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made without any animal products, these cookies can be enjoyed by everyone.
• Perfectly Frosted: The creamy cinnamon frosting adds an irresistible touch that elevates each cookie.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the right tools ready. They will help streamline your efforts and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper (or baking mat)
• Cookie Scooper (optional)
• Piping Bag
• Wilton Piping Tip #2A

Importance of Each Tool

• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Essential for achieving a light and fluffy dough, ensuring even mixing of ingredients.
• Baking Sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking cookies evenly without warping.
• Piping Bag: Allows you to easily decorate the cookies with frosting in beautiful swirls.

Ingredients

Get ready to gather these ingredients to create your delicious Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting!

• 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: Prepare the Dough

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 Wet and Dry Ingredients

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 the dough is important as it helps achieve the right texture.

Step 5: Preheat Your 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 them into disks. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet a couple of inches apart.

Step 7: Bake

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

Step 8: Make Cinnamon Frosting

In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer with the whisk attachment to whip together all frosting ingredients until fully combined. If you’re preparing ahead of time, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 9: Decorate Your Cookies

Spoon icing into a piping bag fitted with Wilton Piping Tip #2A. Pipe cinnamon frosting onto cooled cookies in a swirl pattern from the center outwards. Sprinkle some pumpkin pie spice on top for extra flair!

Enjoy your homemade Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting—perfect for any autumn occasion!

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. They can be served in various delightful ways to enhance your autumn experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a rich cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon break.
• Tea: Enjoy them with a warm cup of chai or herbal tea for a soothing treat.
• Cocoa: A mug of hot chocolate complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

At Fall Gatherings

• Cookie Platter: Arrange the cookies on a platter with other seasonal treats like caramel apples and pecan pie bites for an inviting display.
• Potluck Treats: Bring these cookies to potlucks or parties, where their festive flavor will surely impress your friends.

As Dessert

• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches filled with your favorite dairy-free ice cream.
• With Fruit: Serve alongside sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness.

How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Perfecting these soft pumpkin cookies requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your baking skills.

• Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate the dough before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances flavor.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies.
• Don’t Over-Mix: Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed; over-mixing can result in tough cookies.
• Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your pumpkin pie spice is fresh for maximum flavor impact; spices lose potency over time.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before adding frosting, preventing it from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Complementing your soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting is easy when you choose the right side dishes. Here are some great options.

1. Apple Slices: Fresh apple slices provide a crunchy contrast that balances the soft texture of the cookies.
2. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup enhances the fall flavors and makes for a comforting meal.
3. Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses (like vegan options) alongside nuts and dried fruits for an elegant touch.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and heartiness, making it an ideal side during autumn.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette can refresh your palate after indulging in sweet treats.
6. Granola Parfait: Layer granola, yogurt (or plant-based alternatives), and fruit for a deliciously balanced dessert option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold ingredient measurements: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the texture of your cookies. Always measure ingredients accurately using proper measuring cups and spoons.
• Bold skipping the chilling step: Chilling the cookie dough is essential for achieving the right texture. Don’t skip this step; refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Bold overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to maintain a soft texture.
• Bold ignoring cooling time: Allow your cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures a better presentation.
• Bold not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat your oven can affect baking time and results. Always preheat before placing your cookies inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

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-safe 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 warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually on high for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting that might help you perfect your baking skills.

What makes these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting so soft?

The combination of vegan butter and pumpkin puree keeps these cookies moist and tender, resulting in a delightful softness.

Can I use another type of flour for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?

Yes! You can experiment with gluten-free flour or whole wheat flour, although texture may vary slightly.

How do I customize my Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture!

What is the best way to frost my Soft Pumpkin Cookies?

Using a piping bag fitted with a Wilton Piping Tip #2A allows for beautiful swirls of cinnamon frosting that enhance presentation!

Final Thoughts

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are perfect for autumn gatherings or just as a cozy treat at home. Their versatility allows you to customize them easily by adding different mix-ins or adjusting spices. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the sweet flavors of fall!