Name: Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Dreamy Cinnamon Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 74 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free blend); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Ensure freshness); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger; 1 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Freshly grated for best flavor); 1 teaspoon Ground Cloves; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Adjust sweetness as needed); 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar; 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree (Do not use fresh pumpkin); 1 large Egg (Can substitute with flax egg for vegan); 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract (Use high-quality); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Adjust sweetness as desired); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 2 tablespoons Milk (Or heavy cream for consistency)

As the crisp autumn air blankets the landscape, the kitchen fills with warm, inviting scents that instantly evoke the spirit of the season. That's when I whip up a batch of Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. With their cake-like texture and spiced perfection, these cookies offer a comforting indulgence that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. Not only do they make for a cozy snack paired with your favorite warm beverage, but they're also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at gatherings. Curious how to bring the flavors of autumn into your home with this scrumptious recipe? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Soft, Cake-Like Delight: Each bite of these cookies has a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, making them a lovely treat for any occasion.

Easier than You Think: The step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice bakers can achieve gourmet results without a hitch.

Warm, Spiced Flavor: Infused with classic autumn spices, these cookies evoke memories of cozy fall evenings, perfect for family gatherings or festive celebrations.

Versatile and Fun: Customize them with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, or try different frosting flavors to make them uniquely yours.

Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make a fantastic gift for friends or family, wrapping up the warm essence of fall in a treat they’ll love!

Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or check out our guide on perfect fall desserts for a full autumn experience!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bake these delightful treats!

For the Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability; swap with a gluten-free blend if needed.
Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Baking Powder – Works alongside baking soda for that cake-like texture.
Ground Cinnamon – Brings warmth and classic fall flavor; adjust to suit your taste.
Ground Ginger – Adds a zesty spice that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
Ground Nutmeg – Offers a fragrant, nutty essence; use freshly grated for the best flavor.
Ground Cloves – Packs an aromatic punch, enhancing the warm spices of autumn.
Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances the flavors; don’t skip it!
Unsalted Butter – Gives these cookies their rich flavor and moist texture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens up the dough nicely; feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of toffee flavor, essential for chewier cookies.
Canned Pumpkin Puree – The star of the show, providing moisture and flavor; avoid fresh pumpkin for this recipe.
Large Egg – Binds it all together, ensuring your cookies hold shape; can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan option.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor; opt for high-quality for the best taste.

For the Frosting

Cream Cheese – Creates the luscious texture of the frosting; use dairy-free cream cheese for a non-dairy version.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; scale back for a less sweet finish.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses the frosting with warm spice for a perfect pairing with the cookies.
Milk/Heavy Cream – Adjusts the consistency of the frosting; almond milk works great for a dairy-free option.

Now you're all set to make these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting a treasured fall tradition in your home!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your Soft Pumpkin Cookies don't stick while baking. This will also help them maintain their lovely soft texture.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Whisk them together until well incorporated, ensuring there are no lumps. Set this dry mixture aside, as it will come together beautifully with the wet ingredients in the next step.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer, add your softened unsalted butter and cream it on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. Gradually add in both granulated sugar and light brown sugar, continuing to beat the mixture until it reaches a creamy consistency. This process incorporates air, helping your cookies achieve that perfect lift.

Step 4: Incorporate the Pumpkin and Eggs
Next, mix in the canned pumpkin puree, large egg, and pure vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until the ingredients are just combined, being careful not to over-mix. This step will create a moist base for your Soft Pumpkin Cookies, filled with delicious autumn flavors.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the pumpkin mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. It's important to avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tougher cookies. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky, packed full of all those warm, spiced flavors.

Step 6: Chill the Dough (Optional)
For an even better texture, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld together and reduces spread during baking. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but it's worth the wait for perfectly soft cookies.

Step 7: Scoop and Space the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto the lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing is crucial as it allows the cookies to spread slightly while baking, maintaining that cake-like texture you desire in your Soft Pumpkin Cookies.

Step 8: Bake for Perfection
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-14 minutes. Look for the edges to be golden brown while the centers remain soft and just set. To ensure even baking, rotate the sheets halfway through. Your kitchen will soon fill with the delightful aroma of fall!

Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, pull the cookies out and allow them to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Giving them this time to cool ensures they maintain their soft, tender texture.

Step 10: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
For the luscious cinnamon frosting, beat together cream cheese and unsalted butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing to combine until it reaches your desired sweetness and thickness for frosting your Soft Pumpkin Cookies.

Step 11: Finish the Frosting
Mix in ground cinnamon and pure vanilla extract to the frosting, adding a rich flavor that complements the cookies perfectly. If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk or heavy cream to achieve your desired consistency, ensuring it's spreadable but not runny.

Step 12: Frost the Cookies
Generously frost each cooled cookie with the cinnamon frosting, using a spatula or knife to create a lovely swirl on top. For an extra touch, dust a little more cinnamon over the frosted cookies. They are now ready to be shared or enjoyed on your own!

Step 13: Store Leftovers
If you have any cookies left after your delightful tasting, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are sure to stay fresh, ready to brighten your day whenever you desire!

How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Fridge: Store your frosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and preserves their soft, cake-like texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container after freezing. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds. This enhances their softness and brings back that freshly baked flavor!

Thawing: If frozen, allow cookies to thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting them. This method retains the delightful taste of your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting.

Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature. Cold butter will not cream properly, affecting the cookies' texture.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined in the final steps. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies instead of the desired soft, cake-like texture.
Cool Before Frosting: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting to prevent the icing from melting and sliding off, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
Fresh Spices: Use fresh ground spices for the most aromatic and flavorful cookies. Old spices may lack potency and diminish the fall flavor profile.
Chill the Dough: Consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes. This helps improve the texture and reduces spreading during baking, keeping your Soft Pumpkin Cookies nice and fluffy!
Customize Your Cookies: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture. Tailor the recipe to suit your family's tastes!

What to Serve with Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Dreamy Cinnamon Frosting

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance each sweet, spiced bite of your soft pumpkin cookies.

Warm Spiced Chai: The aromatic spices in chai complement the cinnamon frosting beautifully, creating a cozy flavor harmony. Sip it slowly while enjoying the cookies for a relaxing treat.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious contrast to the warm cookies. The cold creaminess balances the spiced flavors perfectly, making it a favorite duo.
Apple Cider: Serve with warm apple cider for an autumnal experience. The sweet and tangy hints of apple enhance the pumpkin flavors, making you feel wrapped in a cozy fall embrace.
Nutty Coffee: A cup of nutty coffee or espresso deepens the flavor profile of your cookies while providing a delightful contrast to their sweetness. This pairing is satisfying and energizing.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Leaning into the season’s favorites, enjoy these cookies with a pumpkin spice latte. The harmonious blend of coffee, pumpkin, and spices pairs perfectly with each cookie bite.
Pecan Pie Bars: For those gathering moments, serve alongside rich pecan pie bars. Their crunchy texture and sweet, nutty flavor offer a delightful contrast to the soft cookies.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with crisp apples and juicy pears adds a refreshing note to balance the richness of the cookies. The bright flavors will make each bite feel vibrant and hearty.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Drizzle pure maple syrup over the cookies right before serving. It elevates the sweetness and adds a touch of earthiness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

Soft Pumpkin Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these fun variations!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or margarine for a delicious dairy-free option.
Vegan: Use a flax egg instead of a large egg to make the cookies vegan-friendly while maintaining that soft texture.
Nutty Additions: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch and a delightful flavor contrast.
Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a sweet, chocolatey surprise in every bite.
Zesty Upgrade: Grate some orange or lemon zest into the dough or frosting for a refreshing citrus burst that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
Alternative Frosting: Try a maple frosting by mixing maple syrup into a dairy-free cream cheese for a nutty, sweet twist on the classic.
Spice It Up: Increase the ground cinnamon or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick that warms the senses.
Substitution Tip: Need to reduce sugar? Use applesauce as a partial sweetener in the cookie dough for a healthier variant that keeps them moist.

Explore these variations to discover new favorites while enjoying the warmth and coziness these Soft Pumpkin Cookies bring! Pair them with a comforting cup of tea or perhaps check out our guide on autumn spice desserts for more ideas to celebrate the season!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by refrigerating it in an airtight container; this chilling helps meld the flavors and improves texture. You may also bake the cookies a day ahead, allowing them to cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For the frosting, make it ahead of time as well and keep it in the fridge, just bring it to room temperature before spreading it over the cookies. With this prep, you’ll be ready to enjoy a cozy dessert with minimal last-minute effort!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best pumpkin puree for these cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, opt for canned puree specifically labeled for baking. This ensures a smooth texture and rich flavor. Avoid using pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices, which can alter your cookie's intended taste.

What is the best way to store Soft Pumpkin Cookies?
The more the merrier when it comes to keeping these cookies fresh! Store your frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This method preserves their soft, cake-like texture while maintaining the delicious flavor of the cinnamon frosting.

Can I freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?
Absolutely! For freezing, it’s best to freeze the undecorated cookies first. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.

What can I do if my pumpkin cookies are too dense or dry?
Very good question! If your cookies turn out denser than expected, first check the measurement of your flour; too much can lead to dryness. Make sure you're spooning flour into the measuring cup rather than scooping it directly. Additionally, ensure you’re properly creaming the butter and sugars, as this air incorporates into the dough to create that soft texture. If the dough feels too thick, a little more pumpkin puree or a splash of milk can help improve its moisture.

Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! This recipe is quite flexible. For a dairy-free option, substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free cream cheese in the frosting. If you prefer a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk. These changes still yield delicious Soft Pumpkin Cookies without sacrificing flavor!