As the first cool breezes of autumn sweep in and the leaves begin their colorful dance, I find myself longing for the comforting flavors of the season. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of soft pumpkin cookies with creamy cinnamon frosting. The moment I mixed the pumpkin puree with warm spices, the enchanting aroma filled my kitchen and instantly transported me to a cozy café on a chilly day.
If you’re looking for a delightful alternative to fast food, these vegan treats are an absolute game changer. Not only are they quick to make and refined sugar-free, but they also cater to gluten-free diets, so everyone can indulge without a worry. Topped with a swirl of luscious cinnamon frosting, these cookies strike the right balance between indulgent and wholesome, perfect for sharing with loved ones or sneaking a quiet bite for yourself. Grab a cup of your favorite warm beverage, and let’s dive into this heartwarming autumn recipe!
Why Soft Pumpkin Cookies Will Delight You
These soft pumpkin cookies are a treat you’ll want to make all season!
- Irresistible flavor: The blend of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that’s perfect for fall.
- Vegan and guilt-free: Enjoy these delectable treats without the worry, as they are refined sugar-free and gluten-free.
- Quick and easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, even novice bakers can whip these up in no time!
- Perfectly soft texture: The cake-like consistency melts in your mouth, enhanced by the sweet, creamy cinnamon frosting.
- Crowd-pleasing delight: Ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo with a warm drink, these cookies are sure to impress!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake some love!
For the Cookies
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure; can be substituted with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free delight.
- Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture, flavor, and a subtle sweetness; use canned or homemade for an extra touch.
- Baking Soda – Acts as the leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise in your soft pumpkin cookies.
- Cinnamon – Brings warm spiciness to both cookies and frosting; feel free to adjust to your taste!
- Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener that enhances flavor; honey can be used if not strictly vegan.
- Coconut Oil (melted) – Adds richness and moisture; can be swapped with vegan butter or vegetable oil in a pinch.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
For the Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and a creamy texture, perfect for frosting; ensure it’s labeled vegan.
- Dairy-Free Milk (e.g., almond or oat) – Used to achieve the right consistency in the frosting; choose your favorite variety for the final touch.
How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
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Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly and come out soft and fluffy. -
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. -
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This mix will ensure you get an even rise and texture in your cookies. -
Form the Dough:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies perfectly soft! -
Scoop and Bake:
Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and they start to look golden. -
Cool Cookies:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their soft texture. -
Prepare Frosting:
In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and dairy-free milk until creamy. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired frosting consistency. -
Frost Cookies:
Once the cookies are fully cooled, spread or pipe the frosting generously onto each cookie, creating delightful swirls of sweet goodness.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of fall flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?
Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with the delightful pairing of these tender cookies and seasonal favorites.
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Chai Tea: The spiced warmth of chai beautifully complements the cinnamon frosting, creating a soothing combination for chilly days.
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Spiced Apple Cider: This sweet drink adds a fruity punch, balancing the rich flavors of pumpkin. Sip it alongside your cookies for a cozy treat.
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Harvest Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad with apples, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette contrasts perfectly with the soft, creamy cookies, making for a well-rounded experience.
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Vanilla Almond Milk: This creamy, nutty alternative adds a lovely touch that enhances the overall sweet experience, especially when paired with your cookies for a cozy late afternoon bite.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Dive deep into the fall spirit by enjoying a warm pumpkin spice latte. It’s a delightful match that echoes the flavors of your cookies while warming the soul.
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Maple Pecan Ice Cream: For a sweet twist, pair your cookies with a scoop of this creamy ice cream. The nutty flavor and buttery texture create a heavenly indulgence.
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Toasted Pecans: Adding these nutty bites on the side gives a crunchy texture, offering a delightful contrast to the soft cookies while enhancing the autumn vibe.
Storage Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store your soft pumpkin cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
- Fridge: If you want to enjoy them longer, these cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to 7 days. Just ensure they’re tightly sealed to prevent them from drying out.
- Freezer: Unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking.
- Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, simply microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or let them come to room temperature before frosting to maintain the soft texture.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these soft pumpkin cookies and customize them to your taste!
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Chocolate Chip: Stir in vegan chocolate chips for a sweet, gooey surprise in every bite, adding luscious richness to the pumpkin base. Perfect for those moments when you crave that chocolatey indulgence!
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Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch, bringing an earthy flavor that complements the pumpkin exceptionally well. Each nibble becomes a heartwarming experience that’ll remind you of cozy gatherings.
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Spiced Twist: Experiment by adding a dash of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon for a spicier cookie that warms your soul. Embrace the essence of fall with this enchanting flavor boost.
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Orange Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the pumpkin flavor and adds a delightful aroma. This simple twist will elevate the cookies to a whole new level.
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Agave Nectar: Swap maple syrup for agave nectar for a lighter sweetness and a hint of floral notes. This versatile sweetener can take your cookies to unexpected flavor territories.
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Dried Fruit: Toss in some chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy, fruity burst that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin’s softness. This addition can take you on a mini flavor adventure in every cookie.
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Pumpkin Spice: For pumpkin spice lovers, add a pre-made pumpkin spice blend instead of plain cinnamon to enhance the fall vibe, wrapping your cookies in a warm, nostalgic hug of familiar flavors.
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Vegan Butter Frosting: Instead of the traditional cinnamon frosting, use vegan butter for a thicker, creamier frosting that adds an ultra-rich finish to your cookie experience, making them irresistibly decadent!
Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda is fresh to provide adequate rise in your soft pumpkin cookies, which keeps them fluffy and tender.
- Mix Gently: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Stir the dough just until combined for that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Cool Before Frosting: Let the cookies cool completely before adding frosting to prevent it from melting into a puddle. This keeps your cookies looking beautifully frosted.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to experiment by adjusting the amount of cinnamon or adding other spices like nutmeg for a unique twist in your soft pumpkin cookies.
- Storage Savvy: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness, or freeze unfrosted cookies for future enjoyment—up to two months!
Make Ahead Options
These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the wet and dry ingredients as directed and place the dough in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can bake the cookies ahead of time and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days without sacrificing their soft texture. When ready to serve, simply frost them with the creamy cinnamon frosting—this can also be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before spreading it onto your cookies, ensuring they remain just as delicious!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree is best for the cookies?
Absolutely! You can use either canned pumpkin puree or make your own by roasting and blending fresh pumpkin. Canned options are convenient and provide a consistent flavor, while homemade can give a fresher taste if you have the time. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices.
How should I store leftover cookies, and how long do they last?
To maintain the delicious softness of your soft pumpkin cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week, but be sure they’re tightly sealed to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how?
Definitely! Unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, layering parchment paper between the cookies to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave for a quick heat-up.
What if my cookies come out too dry or crumbly?
If your cookies turn out dry, it may be due to overmixing the dough or using too much flour. For a better texture, be gentle when mixing, and if the dough feels too dry, add a splash of dairy-free milk or a little extra pumpkin puree until it’s just right. Baking times can also vary, so make sure not to overbake!
Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Great question! While this recipe doesn’t contain nuts, always double-check your ingredients, especially the dairy-free milk. Options like oat or rice milk are typically safe for nut allergies. However, if you’re cooking for someone with a severe allergy, it’s best to avoid cross-contamination and consult your ingredient labels carefully.
Can I make these cookies without gluten?
Absolutely! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Many brands provide great options that will yield similar results. Just ensure your baking soda is gluten-free, and you’re all set for delicious gluten-free soft pumpkin cookies!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting for Cozy Fall Vibes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and dairy-free milk until creamy.
- Spread or pipe the frosting onto each cookie once fully cooled.