Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Get ready to fall for these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting! These delightful treats are perfect for any autumn gathering or cozy night in. With their rich pumpkin flavor and creamy cinnamon frosting, they’ll quickly become a seasonal favorite. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween or just enjoying the fall weather, these cookies offer a delightful balance of sweetness and spice that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Soft Texture: These cookies have a soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth, making them irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip up these cookies with ease.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even as part of a festive spread during gatherings.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made with vegan ingredients, these cookies can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious process of making soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make baking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand Mixer or Large Bowl
• Hand Mixer (optional)
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper (or Baking Mat)
• Cookie Scooper (optional)
• Piping Bag
• Wilton Piping Tip #2A

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients for a light and fluffy cookie dough.
• Baking Sheet: Provides an even surface for baking, allowing cookies to cook uniformly.
• Piping Bag: Helps create beautiful swirls of frosting on your cookies for an appealing presentation.

Ingredients

Get ready to create some magic! Here’s everything you need for these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting:

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

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream together the softened butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients bowl. Mix on low speed until just combined—be careful not to over-mix!

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for 30 minutes or overnight. Chilling is crucial for achieving the right cookie texture.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 °F (177 °C).

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out 2-inch balls of dough using a medium cookie scooper or large spoon. Press down slightly to flatten each ball into disks. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet a couple of inches apart.

Step 7: Bake

Bake on the center rack for 10–12 minutes. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet before frosting.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Frosting

In a medium bowl with an electric mixer or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip together all frosting ingredients until fully combined. If making ahead of time, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 9: Frost Your Cookies

Spoon icing into a piping bag fitted with Wilton Piping Tip #2A. Pipe cinnamon frosting on top of cooled cookies in a swirl pattern starting from the middle. Sprinkle some pumpkin pie spice on top before serving. Enjoy!

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are sure to delight your family and friends this fall season!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are a delightful treat perfect for autumn gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a fall party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Pair with Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
• Enjoy with Tea: A warm cup of chai or herbal tea enhances the spices in the cookies.
• Serve with Hot Chocolate: This indulgent pairing is perfect for chilly evenings.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mix with Other Cookies: Include chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin cookies for variety.
• Add Seasonal Fruits: Fresh apples or pears add a refreshing touch alongside the cookies.
• Include Mini Cheesecakes: These desserts provide a creamy contrast to the soft texture of the cookies.

For Special Occasions

• Halloween Treats: Decorate with spooky designs to make them fun for kids and adults alike.
• Thanksgiving Dessert Table: These cookies can be a lovely addition to your holiday spread.
• Gifts for Friends: Package them nicely in boxes as homemade gifts during the festive season.

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How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

To achieve the best possible soft pumpkin cookies, follow these helpful tips that ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and keeps your cookies thick and soft.
• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh pumpkin pie spice will enhance flavor. Check expiration dates on spices!
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies tender and fluffy.
• Bake on Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and promotes even baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the cookies to cool ensures that your frosting sets nicely without melting away.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness for days.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting can be complemented by various side dishes that bring out their flavors. Here are some tasty options that pair well.

1. Cream Cheese Dip: A sweet cream cheese dip adds richness and pairs wonderfully with the spices in the cookies.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel enhances sweetness and creates an indulgent treat.
3. Roasted Nuts: Salty roasted nuts provide a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the cookies.
4. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances sweetness, making it a refreshing side.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt, granola, and fruits for a healthy option that complements dessert perfectly.
6. Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enjoying these cookies alongside this seasonal drink makes for a cozy fall experience.
7. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory notes that balance out sweet flavors from the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Chilling Step: Failing to chill the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking. Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to achieve the right texture.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Using incorrect measurements can affect the cookie’s outcome. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can make your cookies dense and tough. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and fluffy.

• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can result in either burnt or undercooked cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

• Forgetting to Cool Before Frosting: Applying frosting on warm cookies can cause it to melt away. Ensure cookies are completely cooled before adding the cinnamon frosting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Freeze un-frosted cookies for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring as much air is removed as possible.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and heat for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, cover, and heat for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting special?

These cookies are incredibly soft and flavored with warm spices, making them perfect for autumn treats. The cinnamon frosting adds a delightful creaminess that complements the pumpkin flavor well.

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

Yes, regular butter can be substituted if you prefer non-vegan options. The taste will remain deliciously rich!

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Look for a slight golden edge and a soft center. They should not appear wet or shiny on top when fully baked.

Can I customize the frosting flavor?

Absolutely! You can add different spices or extracts like maple or vanilla to create a unique twist on the classic cinnamon frosting.

Are these cookies suitable for Halloween parties?

Yes! These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting make festive treats perfect for Halloween gatherings, offering both flavor and fun!

Final Thoughts

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even different frostings. Embrace the fall season by trying this recipe; it’s sure to bring joy and warmth to your gatherings!