Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the taste of fall with these delightful soft pumpkin cookies topped with a luscious cinnamon frosting. They are perfectly spiced, melt-in-your-mouth treats that make for an irresistible Thanksgiving dessert. Great for sharing with family and friends, these cookies are an easy way to bring warmth and comfort to your holiday celebrations.
These soft pumpkin cookies bring the essence of autumn right to your kitchen. With a perfect balance of spices and a creamy cinnamon frosting, they are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering.
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Soft and chewy texture
- Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg
- Easy to make and great for sharing
- A classic fall favorite
The Essence of Fall Baking
There's something magical about fall baking that warms the heart and home. As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, the aroma of spiced pumpkin cookies wafting from the oven becomes a quintessential part of the season. These soft pumpkin cookies are not only a treat to the taste buds but also a delightful reminder of cozy family gatherings and festive celebrations.
Pumpkin is a versatile ingredient that brings moisture and a subtle sweetness to baked goods. By incorporating pumpkin puree into cookie dough, we're treated to a soft, chewy texture that stands out among traditional cookies. Coupled with cinnamon and nutmeg, these flavors evoke a sense of nostalgia, making each bite a comforting experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion
While these pumpkin cookies shine during Thanksgiving, they are also perfect for any autumn gathering or casual brunch. Their delightful taste and aroma are sure to impress family and friends, making them a go-to treat when you want to spread some joy. Whether served alongside a warm cup of apple cider or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, they fit seamlessly into any festive setting.
These cookies are easy to make, allowing anyone, regardless of their baking skills, to join in on the fun. The simple process of mixing ingredients and baking creates an interactive experience that fosters togetherness. Kids and adults alike can participate, making it a perfect family activity during the fall season.
Customization and Storage Tips
One of the best things about soft pumpkin cookies is their versatility. Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or dried cranberries, to customize these treats to your liking. This allows you to cater to varied preferences while maintaining the essence of the original cookie. You can also experiment with different spices to create unique flavor profiles.
Storing these cookies is easy to do. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for longer freshness. For those who love meal prep, these cookies freeze well too. Simply individually wrap them and place them in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring they maintain their delightful taste for later indulgence.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the cookies
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons milk
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Scoop Cookies
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Prepare the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar. Mix in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and milk until smooth and creamy.
Frost the Cookies
Once cookies are completely cooled, spread a layer of the cinnamon frosting on top of each cookie.
Enjoy your delicious soft pumpkin cookies!
Why Pumpkin Is So Good for You
Pumpkin is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, making it an excellent addition to a balanced diet. Vitamin A is vital for eye health, while vitamin C boosts the immune system. Additionally, pumpkin is high in fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
The antioxidants found in pumpkin can also help protect the body from free radicals, promoting overall health. Incorporating this seasonal ingredient into your treats ensures you're treating yourself to something wholesome while enjoying the flavors of fall.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your cookie experience, consider serving these soft pumpkin cookies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy additions can balance out the spices and create a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion. Drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over them for an extra touch of indulgence.
For a delightful afternoon snack, pair these cookies with spiced chai or a flavored latte. The warmth of the beverages complements the spices in the cookies, creating a comforting moment that’s perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned pumpkin?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly for this recipe.
→ How do I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Experience the taste of fall with these delightful soft pumpkin cookies topped with a luscious cinnamon frosting. They are perfectly spiced, melt-in-your-mouth treats that make for an irresistible Thanksgiving dessert. Great for sharing with family and friends, these cookies are an easy way to bring warmth and comfort to your holiday celebrations.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the cookies
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar. Mix in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and milk until smooth and creamy.
Once cookies are completely cooled, spread a layer of the cinnamon frosting on top of each cookie.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 23g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 1g