Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe

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If you are craving a fall-inspired treat with a cozy, comforting vibe, you have to try these amazing Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting. Every bite offers a perfect balance of tender pumpkin-spiced dough and luxuriously creamy cinnamon frosting, making these cookies a standout for pumpkin lovers and cookie fans alike. They boast a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture with just the right hint of spice and sweetness that will have you reaching for one after another without guilt. Whether baking for a special occasion or just to brighten a chilly afternoon, these cookies deliver a warm, satisfying hug in edible form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together simply yet brilliantly to create the quintessential fall cookie. Each one plays a crucial role—from the vegan butter providing richness, to pumpkin puree adding moisture and seasonal flavor, and the blend of spices bringing that unmistakable pumpkin pie charm.

• Vegan butter (1/2 cup + 1 cup): Provides the cookie’s tender texture and richness while keeping it plant-based.
• Pumpkin puree (1/4 cup): Infuses natural moisture and vibrant autumn flavor into the dough.
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup + 1/3 cup): Adds a subtle molasses undertone, creating depth and softness.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Offers sweetness and helps with the cookie’s structure.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) & vanilla paste (3 teaspoons): Enhances overall flavor with a warm, fragrant note.
• All-purpose flour (1 3/4 cups): The foundation of the cookie’s tender crumb.
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Gives cookies a gentle rise for softness.
• Pumpkin pie spice (1 teaspoon + 1 teaspoon): The magical blend that makes these cookies unmistakably pumpkin-y and festive.
• Cornstarch (2 teaspoons): Keeps cookies delightfully soft and delicate.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and brightens the flavors.
• Powdered sugar (3 1/4 cups): The base of the cinnamon frosting, smooth and creamy.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and spice to the frosting’s flavor profile.
• Optional baking tools: Hand or stand mixer for ease, cookie scooper for even sizing, and piping bag plus Wilton Piping Tip #2A for beautiful frosting swirls.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Step 1: Creaming the Wet Ingredients

Start by creaming together the vegan butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a stand mixer or large bowl. Whip them until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and well combined. This step is essential for a smooth base that will give the cookies their tender texture and rich flavor.

Step 2: Preparing the Dry Mix

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt. Combining these ingredients beforehand ensures that the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed, which is the secret to consistent flavor and texture throughout your batch.

Step 3: Bringing It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed. Mix just until everything is combined—over-mixing can toughen the cookies, and we want them delightfully soft! Once the dough has formed, cover it and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight. This chilling period is crucial because it allows the flavors to meld and helps the dough firm up for easier shaping.

Step 4: Shaping and Baking the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Scoop the chilled dough into 2-inch balls using a cookie scooper or spoon, then gently press each ball into a flat disk shape. This shaping is important because the dough does not spread much during baking. Arrange the disks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes on the center rack. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before moving to the next step.

Step 5: Preparing the Cinnamon Frosting

While the cookies cool, whip together the vegan butter, vanilla paste, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and powdered sugar in a medium bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer with the whisk attachment to get a smooth, fluffy consistency. You can prepare the frosting ahead and chill it, just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before piping.

Step 6: Decorating the Cookies

Fill a piping bag fitted with Wilton Piping Tip #2A with your cinnamon frosting. Pipe the frosting onto each cooled cookie starting from the center and swirling outward to create a beautiful spiral effect. Finish by sprinkling a tiny pinch of pumpkin pie spice on top to add a final aromatic touch that invites you to dive right in.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Garnishes

For an added pop of texture and visual appeal, consider decorating these soft pumpkin cookies with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or toasted pumpkin seeds on top of the frosting. A light dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg can also enhance that warm spice note, making every bite feel even more irresistible and festive.

Side Dishes

While these cookies hold their own as a snack, they pair beautifully with a hot cup of chai tea, coffee, or a warm mug of vegan hot chocolate. The spices in the cookies and frosting complement these cozy beverages wonderfully, elevating your snack time into an indulgent moment of autumn bliss.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting on a pretty plate with a drizzle of maple syrup around the edges for a captivating presentation during gatherings. You can also set up a “cookie bar” at fall parties, arranging these cookies alongside other seasonal treats to invite guests to customize their own dessert plates.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will stay soft and delicious for up to 3 days, perfect if you want to savor a few bites without rush.

Freezing

These cookies freeze wonderfully! Place unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze the cinnamon frosting separately in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw both and frost as desired.

Reheating

If you want to warm the cookies before serving, heat them gently in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This makes them taste freshly baked and softens the frosting slightly, creating a melty, heavenly experience every time.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain that soft texture.

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

Absolutely! Regular butter works great and will add a delicious richness to the recipe. The cookies will still be just as soft and flavorful.

Do I have to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough is a key step. It helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and allows flavors to meld, resulting in a better-tasting and more manageable dough.

How long will the frosting stay fresh?

The cinnamon frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Be sure to bring it back to room temperature before using for easy spreading or piping.

Can I make these cookies nut-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally nut-free, but if you add garnishes, choose seeds like pumpkin seeds or skip the toppings altogether to keep it safe for nut allergies.

Final Thoughts

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are truly a celebration of fall flavors and tender textures all wrapped into one delightful bite. They are approachable to make, irresistibly tasty, and perfect for sharing with loved ones any time you want a little seasonal joy. I can’t wait for you to bake these and create some cozy memories with each soft, frosted bite!

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