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Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting: A Cozy Delight
Is there anything better than the comforting aroma of fresh cookies wafting through your kitchen? Imagine walking into your home and being greeted by the sweet scent of Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting. These delightful treats not only taste fantastic but also bring a warm, inviting touch to your gatherings or quiet afternoons. Soft, chewy, and packed with pumpkin goodness, they’re a must-try for anyone who loves dessert!
When the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, it’s time to embrace seasonal flavors. These soft pumpkin cookies are infused with the warm spices of autumn, making them perfect for any occasion—whether you’re preparing for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just treating yourself.
This recipe is simple and approachable, perfect for both seasoned bakers and those just starting out. So, are you ready to create a batch of these scrumptious cookies that are sure to become a favorite in your home? Let’s dive into the world of Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting!
Key Benefits of Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that is desperately sought after during fall.
- Easy to Make: With easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
- Quick Baking Time: With only about 12 minutes in the oven, you won’t be waiting long to enjoy these sweet treats.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will delight in these soft cookies, creating a memorable family tradition.
- Versatile: Great for any time of year, they can easily be dressed up or down for any occasion.
- Customizable: This recipe allows for various ingredient swaps, making it adaptable to your preferences or dietary needs.
What makes it stand out
This recipe stands out because it perfectly captures the essence of autumn in every bite. The soft texture of the cookies combined with the creamy cinnamon frosting makes it a truly delightful experience. Plus, it’s a great way to use pumpkin puree, a seasonal favorite.
What’s more, the Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are not just for Thanksgiving or Halloween; they hold their place year-round as a beloved dessert. You can easily adjust the spices and toppings to suit your tuning—for example, a sprinkle of nuts or chocolate chips can elevate them even further.
Ingredients for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Complete ingredient list with measurements
To make these delicious Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 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
For the Cinnamon Frosting:
- 1 cup vegan butter, softened
- 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
Substitutes and alternatives
- Flour: Use gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free option.
- Sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a lower-glycemic substitute.
- Vegan Butter: For a healthier fat, substitute with applesauce or coconut oil.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: An easy blend of cinnamon and nutmeg can be made at home if you don’t have spice mix on hand.
How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting – Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1 – Prep your workspace and ingredients
Before you start, ensure your workspace is clean and organized. Measure all your ingredients ahead of time. This way, you’ll have everything at your fingertips when you need it.
Step 2 – Cream the wet ingredients
In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened vegan butter, 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3 – Mix the dry ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Step 4 – Combine the mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the stand mixer or bowl. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want your cookies to stay soft.
Step 5 – Chill the dough
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes or up to overnight. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, so this step is essential.
Step 6 – Preheat the oven
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). This ensures that the cookies will bake evenly.
Step 7 – Shape the cookies
Once chilled, scoop out 2-inch balls of dough using a medium cookie scooper or your hands. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet and press down slightly to form disks. Remember, the dough won’t spread much during baking.
Step 8 – Bake the cookies
Bake the cookies on the center rack for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them—once they’re just set and lightly golden on the bottoms, they’re done!
Step 9 – Cool the cookies
After removing them from the oven, let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet. This also helps them firm up a bit.
Step 10 – Make the frosting
In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer or a stand mixer with the whisk attachment to whip together 1 cup of softened vegan butter, 3 teaspoons of vanilla paste, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, 1/3 cup of brown sugar, and 3 1/4 cups of powdered sugar. Mix until fully combined and fluffy.
Step 11 – Frost the cookies
Spoon the cinnamon frosting into a piping bag fitted with the Wilton Piping Tip #2A. Pipe the icing on top of the cooled cookies in a swirl starting from the middle and moving outwards. This adds a beautiful touch!
Step 12 – Serve and enjoy!
Sprinkle a little pumpkin pie spice on top for a finishing touch, and enjoy your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting!
Serving Suggestions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Best occasions to serve this dish
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are perfect for various occasions:
- Thanksgiving Gatherings: Treat guests to a festive dessert.
- Fall Parties: Delight your friends during autumn celebrations.
- Holiday Gifting: Pack a dozen in a cute box to share the love.
- Casual Family Nights: Enjoy a quiet evening at home with cookies and milk.
What to serve with it
Pair your delicious cookies with:
- Hot apple cider: A fragrant and flavorful drink that complements pumpkin.
- Coffee or tea: The warm flavors will enhance the cookies’ taste.
- Ice cream: Pair with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an extra treat.
- Milk: Always a classic, it brings the nostalgia of childhood.
Storing Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Properly
Best storage practices
To keep the Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting at their best:
- In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- In the freezer: Freeze the cookies separately, layered with parchment and stored in an airtight container for up to three months.
Reheating and freezing tips
- For reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
- Thawing frozen cookies: Leave them out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
Tips & Tricks for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Mistakes to avoid
- Not chilling the dough: Always chill the dough for the best texture.
- Over-mixing: Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients.
- Baking too long: Watch them closely; they should remain soft and slightly underbaked.
Extra tips for better results
- Use a cookie scooper: It ensures consistent sizes for even baking.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to match your taste preferences.
- Decorate with toppings: A sprinkle of crushed nuts or fall-themed sprinkles can add visual flair.
Recipe Variations of Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Creative twists
- Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can introduce a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate chips: Mix in chocolate chips for a sweet contrast.
- Cranberries or raisins: For a touch of tartness, add dried fruits.
Dietary adjustments
- Vegan: This recipe is already vegan-friendly with simple substitutions.
- Gluten-free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.
- Low-sugar: Use natural sweeteners like maple syrup or erythritol for a lower sugar option.
Conclusion about Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
In conclusion, Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are a delightful treat that will brighten any day. They’re easy to make and bring the flavors of fall right to your home. Whether you’re sharing them with family during a holiday meal or enjoying them alone with a cup of coffee, these cookies are sure to please.
Give this recipe a try and savor the combination of softness, spice, and sweetness in every bite. We encourage you to share your creations and feedback so others can enjoy this delectable sweet treat too!
FAQs about Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
What if it doesn’t turn out right?
If your cookies spread too much or didn’t rise, check your oven temperature or consider chilling the dough longer. Baking can sometimes require a bit of experimentation.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze it to bake fresh cookies later.
What are the best ingredient substitutions?
Common substitutes include using coconut oil instead of vegan butter or swapping regular flour for a gluten-free blend.
How long can it be stored?
These cookies stay fresh for about a week in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.
Can I use store-bought dough or crust?
While store-bought options can save time, making your dough from scratch truly enhances the flavor and texture.
Is this recipe kid-friendly or family-appropriate?
Yes! Soft Pumpkin Cookies are great for family gatherings, and kids will love the fun of decorating them with frosting.
Can I make this recipe allergen-free?
Yes! Using gluten-free flour, nut-free butter, and dairy-free ingredients can make this treat accessible to many dietary restrictions.