Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Get ready to fall for these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting! 🍂🎃 If you’re anything like me, you eagerly await the arrival of autumn and all the delicious treats it brings. These cookies are not only soft and flavorful, but they also make for a perfect dessert at any gathering, from Halloween parties to Thanksgiving feasts. The rich pumpkin flavor combined with the creamy cinnamon frosting creates a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting taste that’s perfect for fall.
• Versatile: These cookies can be enjoyed on their own or dressed up with additional toppings for special occasions.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made with vegan butter and no eggs, these cookies are suitable for everyone.
• Perfectly Soft: The chilling step ensures that each cookie comes out soft and chewy, making them irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking these soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will streamline the process and make baking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Makes creaming ingredients effortless, ensuring a light texture in your cookies.
• Baking Sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking, helping to distribute heat evenly.
• Piping Bag: Perfect for decorating your cookies with precision for that professional look.

Ingredients

Get ready to create delightful soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting! Here’s what you’ll need:

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: Prepare the Cookie Dough

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

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture 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 and place it in the fridge for 30 minutes or overnight. Chilling helps achieve that soft texture we love!

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 °F (177 °C) while waiting for the dough to chill.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out 2-inch balls of dough using a medium cookie scooper. Flatten them slightly into disks since they won’t spread much while baking. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet a couple of inches apart.

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

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

Step 8: Prepare the Cinnamon Frosting

In a medium bowl, whip together all frosting ingredients using an electric mixer until fully combined. If you’re preparing ahead of time, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate.

Step 9: Decorate Your Cookies

Spoon icing into a piping bag fitted with Wilton Piping Tip #2A. Pipe cinnamon frosting in swirls on top of cooled cookies. Sprinkle pumpkin pie spice on top for an extra touch!

Now enjoy your delicious soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting!

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are perfect for any autumn gathering. Their warm flavors and inviting aroma make them a delightful treat for friends and family. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

Coffee Pairing

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: Complement the cookies with a classic fall drink. The rich flavors of the latte enhance the pumpkin taste.
• Chai Tea: The spicy notes in chai tea pair beautifully with the cinnamon frosting, creating a cozy pairing.

Dessert Platter

• Mixed Fall Treats: Arrange your cookies alongside other fall desserts like apple pie or pecan tarts for a festive touch.
• Cheese Board: Add soft cheeses like brie to balance the sweetness of the cookies.

On-the-Go Snack

• Lunchbox Treats: Pack these cookies as a sweet surprise in lunchboxes. They are easy to grab and deliciously satisfying.
• Picnic Delight: Bring them along on a picnic for a sweet treat that pairs well with outdoor fun.

Holiday Gatherings

• Thanksgiving Dessert Table: Place your cookies at the heart of your dessert spread. They will be a hit among guests of all ages.
• Halloween Party Favors: Decorate them with spooky designs for a fun Halloween treat that everyone will love.

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How to Perfect Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

To ensure your soft pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling helps solidify the butter, making sure your cookies don’t spread too much while baking.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices provide stronger flavors that enhance the overall taste of the cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and fluffy instead of dense.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for consistent results.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allowing your cookies to cool prevents the frosting from melting and keeps it perfectly swirled.
• Experiment with Frosting Shapes: Try different piping techniques for unique presentations; it makes serving more fun!

Best Side Dishes for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Pairing side dishes with soft pumpkin cookies can create a balanced meal or snack experience. Here are some great options:

1. Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider offers comforting flavors that complement pumpkin well.
2. Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: This savory dish adds depth and richness, contrasting nicely with sweet cookies.
3. Spiced Nuts: Roasted mixed nuts seasoned with cinnamon provide an excellent crunchy texture alongside soft cookies.
4. Caramel Dip: Serve caramel sauce as a dip; its sweetness pairs wonderfully with cinnamon frosting.
5. Cream Cheese Dip: A sweet cream cheese dip can enhance both flavor and texture when served alongside the cookies.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit for a refreshing counterpoint to rich pumpkin flavors.

These side dishes not only complement your soft pumpkin cookies but also add variety to your fall gatherings!

Get ready to enjoy these delightful treats! Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can result in flat cookies. Always refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven accurately and use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Not using a cookie scoop: Without a cookie scooper, cookies may not bake evenly. Use a scoop for uniform size and shape.
• Frosting warm cookies: Applying frosting on warm cookies can cause it to melt. Wait until cookies are completely cool before frosting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers of cookies separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Freeze un-frosted cookies for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350 °F (177 °C). Heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place a pan on low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting.

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

Yes, you can substitute regular butter if you prefer. The flavor will remain delicious!

How can I make my cinnamon frosting thicker?

To thicken your frosting, add more powdered sugar gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

What spices can I substitute in this recipe?

You can use allspice or nutmeg as alternatives to pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges should be set while the center looks slightly soft, which will firm up as they cool.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy nights at home. Their rich flavors and delightful texture make them versatile treats. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite spices or toppings; you’ll find endless ways to enjoy them!