Name: Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting for Cozy Fall Moments
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (canned or homemade); 1 cup Brown Sugar (substitute with coconut sugar for sugar-free option); 2 cups Oats (use gluten-free oats if necessary); 1.5 cups Flour (all-purpose or gluten-free); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (ensure it's fresh for best rise); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (adjust to taste); 0.5 cups Vegan Butter (melted; substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (essential for flavor balance); 0.5 cups Almond Milk (any plant-based milk can be used); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (sugar alternative can be used); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (adjust as per preference); 0.25 cups Almond Milk (any plant-based milk works)

Strolling through the vibrant colors of fall, I can’t help but be captivated by the scent of pumpkin permeating the air. There’s something magical about cozying up with a plate of Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, especially as the leaves begin to change. These cookies are not only vegan but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them the perfect choice for any home chef eager to embrace autumn’s delights. Light, chewy, and topped with a swirl of creamy cinnamon frosting, they offer a comforting sweetness that turns any gathering into a special occasion. Plus, they’re a great way to satisfy your cravings without compromising on health—who could resist that? Ready to bring a little warmth into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Fall Flavors Galore: The luscious pumpkin and warm cinnamon come together for a taste that truly embodies the season.

Vegan Comfort: You can indulge guilt-free, as these cookies cater to plant-based diets while still delivering on the sweetness you crave.

Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and steps, even novice bakers can whip these up effortlessly.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings! Serve them alongside a warm cup of homemade Cinnamon Roll Protein for a cozy pairing.

Nutritious Delight: Enjoy a treat that’s not only delicious but also packed with fiber from oats and nutrients from pumpkin, perfect for guiltless snacking!

You’ll love how these cookies transform your autumn experience into a warm, inviting celebration.

Soft Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and a rich flavor; both canned and homemade work well.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor; substitute with coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option.
• Oats – Contributes structure and a chewy texture; use gluten-free oats if necessary.
• Flour – Forms the base of the cookie; use all-purpose or gluten-free flour depending on your needs.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for fluffy cookies; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Cinnamon – Enhances flavor with warm spice notes; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
• Vegan Butter – Adds richness and aids in binding; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to both cookies and frosting; essential for flavor balance.
• Almond Milk – Keeps the batter moist; substitute with any plant-based milk for diversity.

For the Frosting
• Powdered Sugar – Forms the base of the cinnamon frosting; you can use a sugar alternative if desired.
• Cinnamon – Elevates the comforting flavors in the frosting; adjust as per your preference.
• Almond Milk – Helps achieve the desired consistency; any plant-based milk will also work beautifully.

Let’s prepare these delightful Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting and fill your kitchen with the aromas of autumn!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of melted vegan butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy. This will form the rich base for your Soft Pumpkin Cookies. Once well-mixed, gradually fold in 2 cups of oats, 1 1/2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until just combined.

Step 2: Scoop & Shape
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, portion the pumpkin cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The dough will be slightly sticky but should hold its shape. Aim for about 12-15 cookies on this batch, ensuring each scoop is rounded and uniform to promote even baking.

Step 3: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it heat for about 10 minutes while you finish shaping the cookies. Once ready, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. The centers should appear set but still soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking, as you want the Soft Pumpkin Cookies to be chewy.

Step 4: Cool & Frost
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow the cookies to cool completely, which will take another 10-15 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare your cinnamon frosting by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and enough almond milk to achieve a creamy consistency.

Step 5: Decorate
Once the cookies are completely cooled, use a piping bag or knife to generously spread the cinnamon frosting over each cookie. Decorate them with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon for that perfect finishing touch. These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are now ready to be enjoyed, making your kitchen feel like a cozy autumn haven!

What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Bring your fall gatherings to life with these cozy pairings that perfectly complement the sweet allure of your pumpkin cookies.

Vegan Hot Chocolate: This rich, creamy drink warms you up while offering a delightful contrast to the sweet cookies’ flavors.
Cranberry Orange Salad: A refreshing, zesty salad adds a touch of brightness and balances the sweetness with tartness, enhancing your dessert experience.
Maple Glazed Pecans: These nutty bites add crunch and a touch of caramelized sweetness. Their texture complements the softness of the cookies beautifully.
Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai provide a aromatic warmth that deepens the overall fall flavor profile of your spread.
Vanilla Coconut Ice Cream: A scoop of this velvety dessert provides a cool contrast to the warm cookies, making for an indulgent dessert moment.
Apple Cider: Whether served hot or cold, this classic autumn beverage pairs delightfully, marrying flavors of spice and sweetness.

Gather your loved ones, tuck into these scrumptious options, and enjoy the seasonal essence that each bite brings!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain moisture and flavor. The unfrosted cookies can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to serve, bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. For the frosting, mix it fresh just before serving to ensure the optimal creamy texture. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade cookies with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their soft texture and freshness.

Fridge: For extended freshness, place the cookies in the fridge where they can last up to 7 days. Just ensure they’re wrapped well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: You can freeze unfrosted cookies or dough for up to 2 months. Place in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw cookies at room temperature or gently warm them in the oven for a few minutes. Add the frosting after reheating for an irresistible treat!

Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Check Freshness: Always ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise in your Soft Pumpkin Cookies. Old baking powder can lead to dense cookies.
Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool completely before frosting. If they’re still warm, the frosting may melt and lose its shape.
Perfect Pumpkin: Use pure pumpkin puree for the best texture and taste; avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
Mix Well: Ensure the brown sugar is fully blended with the melted vegan butter for a smoother cookie texture. Any lumps can create uneven cookies.
Experiment Wisely: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ginger, but remember to start with small amounts to keep the soft pumpkin flavor balanced.

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Variations

Feel free to explore these exciting variations to elevate your pumpkin cookie experience!

Dairy-Free: Substitute vegan butter with coconut oil for a richer flavor, maintaining a delightful softness. Coconut oil adds a lovely tropical twist that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Nutty Addition: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the chewy cookies. The added nuts provide heartiness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Vegan Chocolate Swirl: Add 1/4 cup of dairy-free chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet surprise. The melt-in-your-mouth chocolate adds decadence and balances the warm spices harmoniously.
Spice It Up: Experiment by adding 1 teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick of fall flavor. These spices create a cozy warmth that’s perfect for chilly days.
Maple Frosting: Swap out the cinnamon frosting for a maple-flavored one by using maple syrup in place of some powdered sugar. It offers a deliciously sweet glaze that enhances the pumpkin’s richness.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities. Many blends mimic the texture of traditional flour, ensuring your cookies don’t lose their beloved softness.
Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute an equal amount of sweet potato puree for the pumpkin. This unexpected twist brings a slightly different flavor and is sure to impress your guests!

For even more delightful treats that pair wonderfully together, consider trying these scrumptious recipes:

Moist Cinnamon Roll Cake offers a delightful cinnamon twist perfect alongside our cookies.
Indulge in Chocolatey goodness with easy Brownie Mix Cookies for an irresistible dessert spread!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using pure pumpkin puree, which provides the richest flavor and texture for these cookies. Canned pumpkin works wonders, too, but avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that may alter your cookie’s taste.

What is the best way to store Soft Pumpkin Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you’d like to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to 7 days, making sure they are wrapped well to avoid drying out. The key is to keep moisture in and air out!

Can I freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies or the dough?
Very! Freezing is a great option to extend the life of your cookies. I often freeze them unfrosted for up to 2 months. Start by allowing the cookies to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. If you prefer, you can also freeze the dough before scooping, then let it thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to bake.

What should I do if my cookies come out too dry?
If your Soft Pumpkin Cookies are dry, it may be due to overbaking or using too much flour. Ensure your oven is accurately preheated and measure your flour gently, using the spoon-and-level method. If they come out dry, try adding a touch more pumpkin puree next time to keep the cookies moist and delightful!

Are these cookies suitable for those with allergies?
You bet! These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are vegan, and by using gluten-free oats and flour, they can easily be made gluten-free. Always check the labels of your ingredients for potential allergens, and consider using alternative sweeteners or plant-based milks if there are specific sensitivities. Enjoy worry-free snacking!