Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

If you are craving a cozy fall treat that captures the warmth and spice of the season in every bite, you have to try these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting. They are tender, moist, and bursting with pumpkin flavor, perfectly complemented by a rich and creamy cinnamon-spiced frosting that melts in your mouth. These cookies bring a delightful balance of sweetness, spice, and softness that will have you reaching for seconds, and maybe even thirds, whether for a special occasion or a comforting everyday indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating the perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, and luckily, these ingredients are simple yet thoughtfully selected to give you the best texture, flavor, and color. Each plays its part in turning humble pantry staples into an irresistible treat.

• 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened: Provides a creamy base and tender crumb while keeping the cookies moist.
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree: Adds natural moisture and that beautiful pumpkin flavor that’s the star of the show.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Delivers rich, caramel notes and helps keep the cookies soft.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and lightens the texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the cookies’ deep, warm flavors with a subtle aromatic touch.
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Builds structure while ensuring that tender, cakey texture.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the cookies a gentle lift and airiness.
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: Brings that unmistakable spicy warmth that perfectly complements the pumpkin.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Keeps the cookies soft by restricting gluten development.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and brightens the flavors.
• For the Cinnamon Frosting: 1 cup vegan butter, 3 teaspoons vanilla paste or extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or extra cinnamon), 1/3 cup brown sugar, and 3 1/4 cups powdered sugar to create a luxuriously smooth and cinnamon-spiced topping.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Step 1: Cream Together Wet Ingredients

Start by softening the vegan butter to room temperature so it blends easily. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and well combined. This step ensures your cookies have a soft and moist base.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt. Pre-mixing these dry ingredients ensures they are evenly distributed, which helps your cookies bake up with consistent texture and flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while continuing to mix on low speed. Stir just until everything is combined; over-mixing can make your cookies tough, so gentle mixing will keep them irresistibly tender.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the cookie dough and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. This essential step firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helping the flavors to deepen. You absolutely don’t want to skip this if you want the best results!

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius). Scoop your dough into roughly 2-inch balls using a cookie scooper or spoons, then press them gently into flat disks—the dough won’t spread much during baking, so shaping is key. Place the cookies spaced a couple of inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet to maintain their soft texture.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Frosting

In a clean bowl, whip together the softened vegan butter, vanilla paste or extract, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and powdered sugar using an electric mixer. Mix until smooth, creamy, and fully incorporated. If you’re making it ahead, cover and refrigerate until ready to frost your cookies.

Step 7: Frost and Finish

Once the cookies are fully cooled, spoon the cinnamon frosting into a piping bag fitted with a Wilton Piping Tip #2A. Pipe swirls of frosting from the center outward on each cookie, finishing them off with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for an irresistible look and extra flavor boost.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Garnishes

These cookies are already showstoppers, but a light dusting of cinnamon or a few decorative sugar crystals on top of the cinnamon frosting can add visual appeal and a little crunch contrast. You might also add a small edible flower or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans to elevate their presentation for guests.

Side Dishes

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting pair beautifully with a warm beverage like chai tea, pumpkin spice latte, or even a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee. For a heartier snack, serve them alongside a bowl of spiced apple cider or a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream to create a comforting seasonal treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Give your cookies a festive feel by arranging them on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves or mini pumpkins scattered around. You can also stack them in pretty tiers or package them in cute boxes tied with twine as thoughtful gifts. Using colorful or patterned parchment beneath the cookies is another lovely way to add charm to your presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting stay fresh when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat to prevent the frosting from melting. For best texture, enjoy them within that timeframe.

Freezing

If you want to stash some for later, freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can also freeze the frosting separately in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw both at room temperature and frost the cookies fresh for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

To bring out the soft, fresh-baked feel, briefly warm your cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven (300 degrees Fahrenheit) for a few minutes. Avoid overheating so the frosting doesn’t melt too much. This little trick makes your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting taste like they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

Absolutely! Regular butter will work perfectly in these cookies if you’re not avoiding dairy. It will provide a classic buttery flavor and the same soft texture.

Is pumpkin puree necessary, or can I substitute it?

Pumpkin puree is recommended because it provides moisture and the signature pumpkin flavor. While you could try other purees like butternut squash, the taste and texture might vary slightly.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of your choice that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture will be a little different but still delicious.

How long do the cookies keep with the frosting applied?

Once frosted, store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Can I use a different spice mix if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

Yes, you can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, or simply use cinnamon alone. The cookies and frosting will still taste fantastic.

Final Thoughts

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting have quickly become a beloved seasonal favorite, thanks to their tender texture, warm spices, and luscious frosting that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is an absolute joy to make and enjoy. So, grab your mixing bowl and let these cookies bring a little extra cozy magic to your day!

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