These soft pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are a delightful treat for any occasion. They are sweet, cozy, and perfect for fall, but tasty enough to be enjoyed year-round. With their tender texture and rich flavor, they will surely bring warmth to your family gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These soft pumpkin cookies are incredibly easy to make and use simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The addition of cinnamon frosting makes them extra special without too much extra effort. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike, making them a family-friendly dessert. Plus, the preparation is quick and fuss-free!

How to Make Cookies

Making these cookies is straightforward and fun. Start by mixing the wet ingredients until fluffy, then add the dry ones. Chill the dough for better texture, shape the cookies before baking, and finally, top them with a creamy cinnamon frosting once they’ve cooled. It’s a process that even beginner bakers can master!

What You Need

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

Step-by-Step

In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream together the softened butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until the mixture is light and fluffy.
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients bowl, mixing on low speed until just combined (don’t over-mix).
Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for 30 minutes or overnight. Chilling the dough is an important step that you cannot skip.
Preheat the oven to 350 °F (177 °C).
Scoop 2-inch balls of dough out with a medium cookie scooper or a large spoon. Press down to flatten the dough balls into disks. While baking, the dough will not spread much, so you need to form it into cookie shapes beforehand. Arrange them a couple of inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake on the center rack for 10-12 minutes. Let them cool down completely on the baking sheet.
In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer or a stand mixer with the whisk attachment to whip together all the icing ingredients until fully combined. If preparing in advance, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.
Spoon icing into a piping bag fitted with the Wilton Piping Tip #2A. Pipe the cinnamon frosting on top of the cooled cookies in a swirl, starting from the middle and moving outwards. Sprinkle pumpkin pie spice on top, and enjoy!

How to Serve These Cookies

These cookies are lovely on their own but also pair well with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving them at family gatherings, bake sales, or even as a cozy treat after dinner. You might sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top for a little something special!

How to Store Cookies

Store your soft pumpkin cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure they are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy again, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.

Recipe Tips

Chill the dough to avoid overly flat cookies.
Don’t over-mix when combining wet and dry ingredients.
Make sure to press down your dough balls; they won’t spread much while baking.
Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
If using regular butter, adjust for the texture if you want to stick to vegan.

Variations & Swaps

Substitute interest with different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, for a warm twist.
Use chocolate chips instead of icing for a less sweet option.
Swap out the pumpkin puree with applesauce for a different fruity flavor.
Try adding chopped nuts for additional crunch.
Create smaller cookie versions for bite-size treats that are perfect for kids!

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This is a great way to save time on baking day!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! They freeze very well. Just ensure they are completely cooled, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

How do I reheat the cookies?
To reheat, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. You can also warm them in an oven set to 350 °F for about 5 minutes.

What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?
If pumpkin puree isn’t available, you can use mashed sweet potatoes or applesauce. They will change the flavor but still provide moisture.

What is the best way to avoid flat cookies?
Make sure to chill the dough as instructed. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh for the right leavening and puffiness in your cookies!