Get ready to indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with these soft pumpkin cookies topped with creamy cinnamon frosting. These cookies are the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, making them a cozy treat to enjoy with your favorite fall beverage. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just looking to embrace the fall season, these pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting will quickly become a household favorite.

Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting on a plate

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

These pumpkin cookies are incredibly soft and moist, thanks to the addition of pumpkin puree and cornstarch. The cinnamon frosting adds a rich and warm touch, perfectly complementing the subtle pumpkin flavor. Plus, this recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy days when you want a homemade treat. Not only are these cookies delicious, but they also fill your kitchen with the delightful aroma of pumpkin and cinnamon – a true sign that fall has arrived.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

For the cookies:

  • Softened Vegan Butter: Adds a rich, buttery flavor while keeping the cookies dairy-free.
  • Pumpkin Puree: The star of the recipe, lending a moist texture and a hint of earthy sweetness.
  • Brown Sugar: Offers a deep sweetness that pairs well with the spices.
  • Granulated Sugar: Lightens the sweetness and adds texture to the cookie.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the dough, giving structure to the cookies.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise and stay fluffy.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: A warm, aromatic spice blend perfect for fall.
  • Cornstarch: Makes the cookies softer and prevents excessive spreading during baking.
  • Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness.

For the cinnamon frosting:

  • Softened Vegan Butter: Ensures the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds an extra layer of flavor to the frosting.
  • Cinnamon: Provides a warm, spicy note that complements the cookies.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: Optional, but it enhances the fall flavor profile of the frosting.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a rich sweetness to the frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar: Gives the frosting its smooth, creamy texture.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for alternatives, here are a few suggestions:

  • Pumpkin Puree: If you can’t find pumpkin puree, mashed sweet potato can be used as a substitute. While it will slightly alter the flavor, it will still yield a deliciously soft cookie.
  • Vegan Butter: For a non-vegan option, you can replace the vegan butter with regular butter.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you’re out of pumpkin pie spice, use a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for a homemade spice mix.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

  1. Cream the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt.
  3. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to maintain the cookies’ tender texture.
  4. Chill the dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight). Chilling the dough helps to keep the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
  5. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) while the dough chills.
  6. Shape the cookies: Scoop 2-inch balls of dough using a cookie scooper or spoon. Flatten each ball into a disk shape and place them a few inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Bake the cookies: Bake the cookies on the center rack for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should be lightly golden at the edges but soft in the center.
  8. Cool the cookies: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before frosting.
  9. Prepare the cinnamon frosting: In a medium bowl, whip together the softened vegan butter, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. You can refrigerate the frosting until ready to use.
  10. Frost the cookies: Transfer the frosting into a piping bag and pipe a swirl of cinnamon frosting on top of each cooled cookie. Finish with a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice for an extra touch of fall flavor.
Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting on a plate

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

  • Chill the dough: Don’t skip this step! Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
  • Check doneness: The cookies should be golden at the edges but soft in the center. Overbaking will make them dry.
  • Frosting texture: If your frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of non-dairy milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar to thicken it up.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting pair wonderfully with a hot cup of chai tea, apple cider, or a warm latte. For variations, you can try adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the cookie dough for some crunch. To make them even more decadent, drizzle some caramel over the frosted cookies.

You can also make a gluten-free version of these cookies by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the amount of sugar in the frosting and use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.

How to Store Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Store your leftover pumpkin cookies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at room temperature. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, place them in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw and frost them.

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are sure to be a hit at your next fall gathering or cozy night in. With their perfect balance of sweetness and spice, they’re the ultimate fall treat!

Conclusion

These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are the perfect way to celebrate the fall season. The combination of pumpkin’s natural sweetness, the warm spices, and the creamy frosting creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a cozy fall snack, these cookies are sure to satisfy. Plus, the easy-to-follow recipe ensures that even beginner bakers can make these delicious cookies with ease. Don’t forget to pair them with a warm beverage, and enjoy the comforting flavors of autumn in every bite!

FAQ About Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter for these pumpkin cookies?

Yes, you can substitute regular butter for vegan butter in this recipe if you’re not following a vegan diet. Just ensure that the butter is softened to make the mixing process easier.

How can I make these pumpkin cookies gluten-free?

To make these pumpkin cookies gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the other ingredients, like baking powder and spices, are also gluten-free.

Can I freeze these pumpkin cookies for later?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted pumpkin cookies for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw and frost them.

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Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

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These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are a perfect fall treat, combining the natural sweetness of pumpkin and the warmth of cinnamon. Ideal for cozying up with a hot drink or sharing with friends and family, this recipe is easy to follow and creates a deliciously comforting dessert.

  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Total Time: 40-42 minutes
  • Yield: 12-14 cookies
  • Category: Dessert, Fall Recipes
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

  • Softened Vegan Butter – 1/2 cup (115g)
  • Pumpkin Puree – 1/4 cup (60g)
  • Brown Sugar – 1/4 cup (50g)
  • Granulated Sugar – 1/2 cup (100g)
  • Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp (5ml)
  • All-Purpose Flour – 1¾ cups (220g)
  • Baking Powder – 2 tsp (8g)
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice – 2 tsp (4g)
  • Cornstarch – 2 tsp (6g)
  • Salt – 1/4 tsp (1g)
  • For the Frosting:
  • Softened Vegan Butter – 1/2 cup (115g)
  • Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp (5ml)
  • Cinnamon – 2 tsp (4g)
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice – 1 tsp (2g)
  • Brown Sugar – 1/4 cup (50g)
  • Powdered Sugar – 2 cups (240g)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
  2. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt.
  3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
  4. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
  5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
  6. Scoop 2-inch balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, flatten into discs, and arrange them a few inches apart.
  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden, and the center is soft.
  8. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet.
  9. In a medium bowl, whip together the softened vegan butter, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
  10. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag and pipe it onto the cooled cookies. Finish with a dusting of pumpkin pie spice, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
  • If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
  • Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at room temperature or up to 7 days in the fridge.
  • If making ahead, you can freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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