In the midst of autumn’s enchanting embrace, I stumbled upon a delightful idea that combined two of my favorite things: cozy flavors and effortless baking. Enter these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting—your new go-to recipe for those craving a nostalgic treat without the fuss. With just a quick prep time of 10 minutes, you can have a batch of these scrumptious cookies fresh from the oven, ready to impress friends and family alike. Plus, they’re gluten-free, making them a delicious option for everyone at the table! As they bake, your kitchen will fill with the warm aroma of spices, promising an indulgent experience that feels both special and wholesome. Ready to fill your home with the delightful essence of pumpkin and cinnamon? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Soft, Chewy Texture: The perfect balance of almond flour and pumpkin puree creates mouthwatering cookies that are soft and pillowy.
Effortless Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and a quick bake time, you can enjoy these delightful treats without a long wait.
Warm, Aromatic Spice: The fragrant cinnamon and nutmeg in every bite bring the essence of autumn right to your home, similar to our delicious Cinnamon Cream Cheese cookies.
Gluten-Free Option: Made with gluten-free flours, these cookies cater to a variety of diets, ensuring everyone can indulge.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends, much like our popular Pumpkin Smores Cookies.
Luscious Frosting: Topped with creamy cinnamon frosting, each cookie is truly a decadent treat that feels luxurious yet approachable.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients
• The essential components you'll need!
For the Cookie Dough
- Pumpkin puree – adds moisture and a rich flavor to your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting.
- Coconut sugar – provides a subtle sweetness and a hint of caramel taste.
- Maple syrup – enhances the cookies with natural sweetness and depth.
- All-purpose flour – gives structure and a classic cookie texture.
- Gluten-free flour – ensures everyone can enjoy these cookies without gluten.
- Almond flour – contributes to the soft, chewy texture while adding a nutty flavor.
- Coconut oil – melts beautifully into the dough, making these cookies rich and irresistible.
- Baking powder – helps the cookies rise for that perfect soft center.
- Baking soda – works in tandem with baking powder for extra fluffiness.
- Cinnamon – brings warmth and spice, enhancing the pumpkin flavor.
- Nutmeg – adds a delightful touch of complexity and autumn essence.
- Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
For the Frosting
- Cinnamon frosting – this creamy topping brings a delicious finish, making every bite truly divine.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting bake evenly and achieve that perfect soft texture. While the oven warms up, gather your mixing bowls, spatula, and parchment paper to line the baking sheet later on.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of pumpkin puree, ¼ cup of coconut sugar, and ¼ cup of maple syrup. Using a spatula, mix these ingredients thoroughly until they form a smooth and homogenous mixture. This will infuse your cookies with delicious pumpkin flavor and natural sweetness, setting the foundation for your cookie dough.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together ½ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 ¾ cups of gluten-free flour, 1 cup of almond flour, ¾ teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This step is essential for ensuring that your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting have the right texture and flavor balance.
Step 4: Merge Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the pumpkin mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cookies dense. The dough should be slightly sticky but cohesive, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that signature soft texture.
Step 5: Incorporate Coconut Oil
Now, fold in ⅓ cup of melted coconut oil to the cookie dough. This will add moisture and richness, providing that delightful softness these cookies are known for. Mix gently until your dough is smooth and slightly glossy, ready for scooping onto the baking sheet.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the dough and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows for expansion during baking. You should see a lovely, rounded shape forming, which will turn into beautifully soft cookies in just a few minutes.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are ready when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft. This short baking time is crucial for achieving that tender, pillowy texture in your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting.
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes. You’ll notice the enticing aroma filling your kitchen. After a brief cooling period, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing their flavors to deepen.
Step 9: Frost with Cinnamon Delight
Once the cookies have cooled, it’s time to frost them generously with your prepared cinnamon frosting. Use a spatula or a piping bag to spread or drizzle the frosting over the tops of each cookie, adding that sweet, creamy finish that makes your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting truly irresistible.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful cookies with fun twists and substitutions!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut oil with a non-dairy butter alternative for a rich flavor without dairy.
- Nut-Free: Replace almond flour with more gluten-free flour or oat flour to keep it safe for nut allergies.
- Extra Spice: Add a teaspoon of ground ginger or allspice to the dough for a warm, festive kick. The combination of spices will create an aromatic experience that wraps you in cozy vibes.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Top finished cookies with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate to add a luxuriously sweet contrast to the cinnamon frosting.
- Pumpkin Pie Flavor: Use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices for a simplified yet delicious flavor profile. It’ll infuse your cookies with that nostalgic feeling of cherished family traditions.
- Mini Cookies: Scoop tiny dollops of dough instead for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing. They’ll bake faster, so watch carefully!
- Fruity Frosting: Swap cinnamon frosting for a tangy lemon glaze or Raspberry Frosting Adore for a refreshing twist—ideal for a vibrant dessert option!
- Oatmeal Addition: Stir in a half cup of rolled oats for a hearty texture that makes each bite more filling. It can turn these cookies into a wholesome treat!
Let these variations be your guide to a beautifully personalized experience!
What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
As you savor these heavenly cookies, let your imagination run wild with delicious pairings that elevate your dessert experience.
- Creamy Hot Cocoa: This rich beverage perfectly complements the warm spices in your cookies, creating a cozy contrast that you'll adore.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool and creamy texture of vanilla ice cream provides a delightful balance to the sweet, spiced cookies, making each bite unforgettable.
- Warm Apple Cider: The fragrant notes of cinnamon in the cider echo the flavor in the cookies, crafting a perfect fall-inspired treat that warms the soul.
- Spiced Chai Tea: A cup of spiced chai enhances the cookie’s flavors, with its aromatic blend of tea and spices creating a delightful tea-time experience.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel on top of your frosted cookies adds a touch of sweet decadence, turning each cookie into a gourmet indulgence.
- Nut Medley: A crunchy assortment of nuts provides a lovely textural contrast to the soft cookies, making for a satisfying and balanced snack experience.
You can also enjoy these treats with a charming cup of freshly brewed coffee or a scoop of pumpkin pie ice cream for even more pumpkin goodness to relish!
How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Room Temperature: Store the Soft Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their soft texture.
Fridge: If you'd like to extend their life, store cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to let them warm to room temperature before indulging for the best flavor!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies un-frosted in a single layer for up to 3 months. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Frost them after thawing.
Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will bring back their delicious softness and make the frosting slightly melty—pure bliss!
Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients to avoid dense cookies. The goal is a slightly sticky dough for soft textures.
• Perfect Measuring: Use a kitchen scale for precise flour measurements, especially when using gluten-free flour, to ensure optimal dough consistency.
• Bake with Care: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should have set edges and soft centers. Overbaking can lead to dryness, so trust your timer!
• Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool on the wire rack before frosting. This prevents melting and making a mess of your delicious cinnamon frosting.
• Frosting Fun: Feel free to use a piping bag for a beautiful finish or spread it with a spatula. The richer the cinnamon frosting, the better!
• Incorporate Spice: Boost the warm flavors by adding a pinch of allspice or ginger to the dough. This way, your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting get an extra kick of autumn joy!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead of time; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and prevent browning. Additionally, you can bake the cookies and store them (without frosting) at room temperature for up to 3 days. For the best taste, frost them the day you plan to serve, ensuring each cookie is just as delicious as when freshly baked. Simply allow the cookies to cool before adding the frosting, and enjoy the indulgent, comforting flavors of homemade treats without the fuss!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for 100% pure pumpkin puree without added sugars or spices. Canned pumpkin is convenient and usually offers a consistent flavor, but if you have fresh pumpkins available, roasting and pureeing your own can elevate the taste even further. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture!
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Very! To keep your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life a bit longer, pop them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just let them warm up before enjoying for the best experience!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze the cookies un-frosted in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. You can frost them after thawing for the freshest taste!
Why are my cookies not as soft as I expected?
The most common reason is overbaking. If they bake even a minute too long, they can turn dry. Always keep an eye on those edges; they should be set while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked. If your dough seems too dry before baking, a splash of almond milk can help restore moisture.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
Not at all! The ingredients in Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, especially the coconut sugar and frosting, can be harmful to pets. Always keep your baked goods out of reach of curious dogs or cats. If you want to treat your pets, consider plain pumpkin puree (without additives) as a safe option!
Can I use a different flour instead of gluten-free?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use only all-purpose flour, you can substitute the gluten-free flour entirely for a total of 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Just remember, the texture may vary slightly, but they should still be delicious!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine pumpkin puree, coconut sugar, and maple syrup in a bowl.
- Whisk together all-purpose flour, gluten-free flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in another bowl.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into pumpkin mixture until just combined.
- Fold in melted coconut oil and mix until smooth.
- Scoop portions of the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until edges are set and centers look slightly soft.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Frost cooled cookies with cinnamon frosting.
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