0 Shares

Autumn has a way of wrapping around us like a cozy blanket, and nothing embodies that warmth quite like the aroma of freshly baked Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting. The moment you pop these little delights into the oven, the enticing scent of pumpkin spice fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, pillowy cookie topped with a creamy frosting that’s infused with the sweet warmth of cinnamon. Whether you’re hosting a seasonal gathering or simply looking to brighten up a quiet evening at home, these vegan cookies are the perfect treat. They’re not just easy to whip up; they also transform simple moments into delightful memories.

Grab your favorite mug of warm apple cider, and let’s dive into the recipe that celebrates the best of fall flavors!

Why You’ll Love These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Deliciously Comforting: These cookies are soft and cakey, melting in your mouth with every bite.
Effortless Preparation: Quick to make, they require minimal time and skill, perfect for any home cook!
Vegan Delight: Enjoy the rich flavors without compromising your dietary choices.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for cozy gatherings or holiday parties, they’re sure to please a crowd.
Versatile Toppings: Feel free to get creative with frosting variations or add-ins like chocolate chips!
Fall Flavor Heaven: Capture the essence of autumn with every deliciously spiced bite. Enjoy them with a warm drink or as a sweet snack anytime!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients

• Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are made even better with the right ingredients!

For the Cookies

Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and a subtle sweetness; can substitute with unsweetened applesauce for a different flavor.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; for a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a rich flavor; swap for coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help cookies rise.
Cinnamon – Gives warm spice flavor; nutmeg can be added for additional depth.
Plant-Based Milk – Hinders cookie dryness and assists in binding ingredients; substitute with almond milk or oat milk as desired.

For the Cinnamon Frosting

Confectioner’s Sugar – Provides the sweetness and desired frosting consistency; can be adjusted based on taste.
Vegan Butter – Creates a creamy base for the frosting; ensures it remains dairy-free and rich.
Cinnamon – Infuses the frosting with sweet warmth, complementing the cookie perfectly; feel free to add a hint of nutmeg for more spice!

These ingredients will create the softest pumpkin cookies that are sure to be a hit, especially with that delightful cinnamon frosting!

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and come out perfect every time, creating that delightful pumpkin spice aroma in your kitchen.
Mix pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and plant-based milk in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is the base that will give your cookies their moist and tender texture.
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cinnamon in a separate bowl. Incorporating the dry ingredients separately helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices throughout your cookies.
Combine the dry mixture into the wet pumpkin mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. Be gentle; you want to avoid overmixing which could lead to dense cookies.
Scoop dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure to space them apart to allow room for spreading. For uniform size, consider using a cookie scoop; it ensures that every cookie bakes evenly.
Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. During baking, enjoy the wafting scent of pumpkin spice filling your home—it’s truly enchanting!
Cool the cookies on a wire rack before frosting them generously with the creamy cinnamon frosting. This step is crucial as it allows the cookies to set and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Optional: Sprinkle with additional cinnamon for an extra touch of spice before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor all the cozy flavors without the last-minute rush. You can prep the dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. For even more convenience, the unfrosted cookies can be baked, cooled, and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just whip up the creamy cinnamon frosting and add it on top for that freshly baked taste. This way, you can enjoy delicious cookies anytime with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. This will help preserve the creamy frosting.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze these unfrosted soft pumpkin cookies for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Warm frozen cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds when ready to enjoy, bringing back their delightful softness and flavor!

Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Mixing Technique: Ensure wet and dry ingredients are blended well to avoid a crumbly texture, key for soft pumpkin cookies.
Baking Time: Don’t overbake! Cookies should remain soft; they will firm up as they cool, so trust your timing.
Use a Cookie Scoop: For evenly-sized cookies, a cookie scoop is your best friend. It guarantees uniform baking and a beautiful presentation.
Chill the Dough: If the dough is sticky, consider chilling it for 30 minutes. This helps create perfectly shaped cookies with less mess.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and delightful surprises in your soft pumpkin cookies!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Variations

Feel free to get creative with your cookies by trying out these delightful variations that will add a personal touch!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious and inclusive treat. Your gluten-free friends will be thrilled!
Spiced Up: Experiment with a pinch of ginger or allspice in the dough to elevate the pumpkin spice experience. This adds depth and a little kick to each bite.
Chocolate Delight: Add vegan chocolate chips to the cookie batter for a sweet surprise. The combination of chocolate and pumpkin is simply delectable, enhancing the overall flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture. The nuts offer a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft, chewy cookies.
Maple Frosting: Instead of traditional cinnamon frosting, try a maple-flavored frosting for a seasonal twist. The maple will lend a lovely sweetness that complements the pumpkin beautifully!
Dairy Free: If you’re avoiding vegan butter, replace it with coconut cream in the frosting. This gives your frosting a unique, creamy texture without any dairy!
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on top of the cookie dough for a crunchy, sweet finish. It’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds!
Chilly Cookies: Try chilling the cookie dough for an hour before baking to create thicker, chewier cookies. It’s a simple step that makes a great difference!

These variations are sure to delight your palate, ensuring that every batch of cookies feels fresh and exciting!

What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?

Cozy up your fall gatherings with delightful accompaniments that enhance these soft, sweet treats.

Warm Apple Cider: This classic fall beverage perfectly complements the spices in the cookies, creating a comforting sipping experience.
Chai Tea Latte: The warm spices in chai harmonize beautifully with the pumpkin flavor, elevating your cookie enjoyment.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a luscious contrast to the warm cookies, making for a delightful dessert duo.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: The savory warmth of this soup balances the sweetness of the cookies, crafting a well-rounded meal perfect for chilly evenings.
Spiced Nuts: Crunchy, spiced nuts add a satisfying texture, enhancing the overall flavor experience alongside your soft pumpkin cookies.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the pumpkin extravaganza by pairing these cookies with a festive latte that mirrors their flavor profile perfectly.
Chocolate Covered Pretzels: A sweet and salty treat that provides a fun crunch, keeping your taste buds excited between bites of cookie.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your cookies transforms them into an indulgent treat, enticing everyone to come back for more!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, aim for a dense and vibrant puree without added sugars or spices. Opt for organic brands if available, or make your own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkins. Fresh pumpkin can offer a richer flavor, but canned pumpkin is perfectly convenient for quick baking!

What is the best way to store Soft Pumpkin Cookies?
For optimum freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer the cookies chilled or need them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Layer parchment paper in between layers to prevent sticking!

Can I freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?
Yes! For best results, freeze your unfrosted cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about an hour, then top with freshly made cinnamon frosting for the best taste.

What should I do if my cookies turn out dry?
If your cookies aren’t as soft as you’d like, it could be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the dough. To troubleshoot, ensure your wet and dry ingredients are combined well. If you find your cookies dry, consider adjusting your baking time, and always trust the cooling process; they will firm up a bit but should remain tender!

Are these Soft Pumpkin Cookies suitable for pets?
No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets. Ingredients like cinnamon and sugar can be harmful to animals, especially dogs. Always be careful about sharing your delicious homemade treats with furry friends; instead, consider tailoring pet-friendly goodies just for them!