Name: Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting for Cozy Fall Evenings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade); 2 cups flour (can use gluten-free all-purpose flour); 1 cup brown sugar (can substitute with coconut sugar); 0.5 teaspoon baking soda (ensure it's fresh); 1 teaspoon cinnamon (use fresh ground for best taste); 0.25 teaspoon salt (consider sea salt for deeper flavor); 0.5 cup non-dairy butter or oil (coconut oil can be used for flavor); 0.5 cup dairy-free cream cheese; 1 cup powdered sugar; 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon

As the leaves turn crisp and the scent of pumpkin spice wafts through the air, I can’t help but get excited about baking. There’s something deeply comforting about the act of making Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, especially as the cooler months invite us to warm our kitchens. These cookies are not only a triumph of soft, delectable texture but also embrace the essence of fall with their delightful flavors. They come together quickly, making them a perfect choice for impromptu gatherings or cozy nights in. Plus, they’re vegan-friendly, which means everyone can enjoy them without compromise! Whether you choose to top them with a creamy cinnamon frosting or keep them simple, I guarantee they will be an instant favorite. Are you ready to fill your home with their enchanting aroma? Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Cookies

Irresistible Softness: Each bite of these cookies melts in your mouth, giving you a soft and satisfying experience that’s hard to resist.

Fall Flavors Galore: The warm notes of pumpkin and cinnamon evoke the cozy charm of autumn, perfect for any seasonal gathering.

Vegan-Friendly Delight: Everyone can join in on the fun with these plant-based treats that don’t skimp on flavor!

Quick and Easy: With straightforward ingredients and a simple baking process, you’ll have fresh cookies ready in no time—ideal for last-minute get-togethers.

Versatile Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Top these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with a luscious Cinnamon Frosting or try a lighter glaze for a fun twist.

Enjoy them with a warm beverage and you’ll find they make the perfect companion for a cozy evening at home!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and natural sweetness; you can use canned or homemade puree for convenience.
Flour – Provides structure; for a gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour.
Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; brown sugar enhances caramel notes, or opt for coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal effectiveness.
Cinnamon – The warm spice essential for flavor; use fresh ground for the best taste.
Salt – Balances sweetness; consider sea salt to add a deeper flavor.
Non-Dairy Butter or Oil – Maintains tender texture; use coconut oil for a rich taste.

For the Frosting

Cinnamon Frosting – A creamy topping that elevates the cookie experience; try dairy-free cream cheese or coconut whipped cream as alternatives.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Cookie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, ½ cup of non-dairy butter, and 1 cup of brown sugar, blending until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 2 cups of flour, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 2: Scoop Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, drop generous mounds of dough onto a lined baking sheet, making sure to space them at least two inches apart. This allows the Soft Pumpkin Cookies to spread slightly while baking, ensuring they maintain a delightful, tender texture. Aim for 12 cookies per standard baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the cookies for approximately 10 minutes. The edges should look set while the centers remain soft and slightly puffy. You’ll know they’re ready when a light golden color develops around the edges, giving them a perfect appearance.

Step 4: Cool and Frost
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up slightly, making them easier to transfer. Once cooled, carefully move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before adding the cinnamon frosting, ensuring the frosting won’t melt.

Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare your cinnamon frosting by mixing ½ cup of dairy-free cream cheese with 1 cup of powdered sugar and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon in a bowl. Beat until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This creamy frosting will beautifully complement the Soft Pumpkin Cookies, adding an irresistible final touch.

Step 6: Frost Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, use a spatula or knife to spread a generous layer of cinnamon frosting on top of each cookie. This enhances the overall flavor and adds a sweet, creamy element. Feel free to get creative and sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for a lovely finishing touch.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting on a beautiful platter, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Pair them with your favorite warm beverage, like chai or spiced cider, making these cookies an enchanting treat for all your cozy fall gatherings.

How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Airtight Container: Store your Soft Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their delightful softness and flavor.

Refrigerator: For longer freshness, place cookies in the fridge, where they can last for up to 7 days without losing their yummy pumpkin taste.

Freezing: Unfrosted cookies or the dough can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, simply microwave for about 10-15 seconds. If frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Variations

Let your creativity shine by customizing these delicious pumpkin cookies to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Vegan Swap: Use coconut cream for a rich frosting alternative that’s still creamy and delightful.
Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix, ensuring everyone can savor these treats.
Nutty Boost: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for an extra crunch and earthiness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
Chocolate Delight: Mix in dark chocolate chips; the sweet and savory combination takes these cookies to new heights.
Spicy Twist: Spice it up! Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cookie batter for a warm, festive flavor profile.
Glaze Option: Instead of frosting, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk over the cookies for a lighter finish.
Dried Fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for a pop of tangy sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
Chai Flavor: Infuse the frosting with chai spices like cardamom and cloves for a cozy, aromatic twist, reminiscent of your favorite fall beverage.

These variations not only add fun twists to the recipe but also let you enjoy these delectable cookies in multiple ways. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies or something rich like Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies, the possibilities are endless!

Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Accurate Measurements: Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure precision, particularly with flour—this prevents dense cookies that miss the soft texture.
Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool fully before adding frosting to avoid melting; this step keeps your cinnamon frosting wonderfully intact and firm.
Uniform Sizing: Using a cookie scoop guarantees even sizes for each Soft Pumpkin Cookie, ensuring consistent baking and delightful presentation.
Baking Sheet Prep: Make sure your baking sheet is lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy cleanup, helping you enjoy your baking experience.
Fresh Ingredients: Check the freshness of your baking soda and spices; this makes a big difference in flavor and cookie rise, resulting in delicious, fluffy cookies.

Make Ahead Options

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their baking process! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix your ingredients and cover the bowl tightly before refrigerating. Additionally, the unfrosted cookies can be baked up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. To maintain their delightful soft texture and flavor, consider adding a slice of bread to the container to keep moisture in. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost them with the cinnamon frosting right before enjoying; this way, they’ll taste just as delicious as fresh-baked!

What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

As the scent of cinnamon fills your home, enhance your cozy fall experience with delightful pairings that will warm your heart.

Creamy Chai Latte: Rich and spicy, chai perfectly complements the pumpkin flavors in the cookies, creating a soothing experience. Imagine sipping this on a chilly evening while indulging in sweet treats.
Warm Spiced Cider: This aromatic drink adds a touch of fall charm, contrasting with the sweetness of the cookies while enhancing their warmth. A toast to cozy gatherings with loved ones is in store!
Maple Glazed Pecans: Crunchy and sweet, these add texture and a delightful nutty flavor. Sprinkle them onto your plate for an extra layer of enjoyment as you savor those soft pumpkin cookies.
Whipped Coconut Cream: Lighter than frosting yet equally indulgent, this creamy topping provides a tropical twist. Use it as a dip for your cookies or a drizzle on top for a refreshing finish.
Caramel Sauce: The luscious sweetness of warm caramel contrasts beautifully with the pumpkin cookies, creating a dreamy dessert moment. Drizzle it playfully on top or serve it alongside for a delectable dip.
Gingerbread Biscotti: This crunchy companion adds a chocolatey depth while playing off the warm spices in your cookies. Dunk them in your drink for a wonderful combination of flavors and textures!
Herbal Tea: Go for a soothing cucumber mint or chamomile. These refreshing teas will cleanse your palate between bites, letting you fully enjoy the rich pumpkin and cinnamon goodness.
Apple Crisp: The warm, crumbly, and fruity dessert is a splendid choice this fall, offering a heartwarming ending to your meal. The combination with pumpkin offers a seasonal flavor adventure everyone will love!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best pumpkin puree for these cookies?
Absolutely! You can use either canned pumpkin or homemade pumpkin puree. If using canned, look for 100% pure pumpkin with no added ingredients. For homemade, roast sugar pumpkins until soft, then scoop the flesh and blend until smooth. Fresh pumpkin gives a vibrant flavor but canned is wonderfully convenient for quick baking.

What’s the best way to store Soft Pumpkin Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to a week. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to soggy cookies.

Can I freeze the cookies before or after frosting?
Absolutely! You have the option to freeze the unfrosted cookies or the dough itself. To freeze baked cookies, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them up in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. If freezing the dough, scoop it onto a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a bag for easy baking later!

What if my cookies turn out too dense?
Very! If your cookies end up being dense, it could be due to too much flour. Make sure you’re using the correct measurement technique—spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off instead of scooping directly from the container, which can compact the flour. Overmixing the dough can also result in denser cookies, so mix just until combined.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Yes, these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting can be made vegan, making them a great option for those avoiding animal products. Be sure to use non-dairy butter and cream cheese in the frosting. Additionally, if you have allergies, double-check your flour and sugar for any potential gluten or other allergens that might affect you or your guests.