Name: Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Irresistible Cinnamon Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Use homemade or canned.); 1 cup Coconut Sugar (Brown sugar works as a substitute.); 2 cups Gluten-Free Flour Blend (1:1 gluten-free blend gives best results.); 1 tsp Baking Soda; 2 tsp Cinnamon; 1 tsp Salt; 1/2 cup Coconut Oil (Melted.); 1/4 cup Almond Milk (Dairy-free.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 1/2 cup Vegan Butter (Coconut cream works as a non-dairy alternative.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar; 1 tsp Cinnamon; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Pin2

As the leaves begin to turn and the air fills with crispness, there’s an undeniable pull towards the kitchen, beckoning us to create something comforting and delicious. I found myself inspired to whip up a batch of soft pumpkin cookies, the kind that invites friends over for warm cups of cider and hearty laughter. The moment you mix pumpkin puree with fragrant cinnamon, the whole house transforms into a cozy autumn haven.

Picture making these delightful treats—each bite soft and moist, their gentle sweetness perfectly complemented by a swirl of creamy cinnamon frosting. With seasonal ingredients like pumpkin that boasts a wealth of flavor and nutrition, these cookies not only bring joy to any gathering but also fit beautifully into a vegan or gluten-free lifestyle. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these cookies promise to capture the essence of fall in every delicious mouthful. Let’s dive into this recipe that will surely make your taste buds dance and your heart smile!

Why are Soft Pumpkin Cookies irresistible?

Comforting and nostalgic, these soft pumpkin cookies evoke warm autumn memories. Easy to make, the simple process means anyone can whip them up—no advanced baking skills required! Flavor-packed, the combination of pumpkin and cinnamon creates a deliciously spiced experience that’s perfect with a cup of cider. Vegan and gluten-free, these cookies cater to various dietary needs without compromising on taste. Whether served at gatherings or enjoyed solo, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients

• Let’s gather what we need to create these delectable Soft Pumpkin Cookies!

For the Cookie Dough

Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture, flavor, and color; essential for that pumpkin taste. Substitution Note: Use homemade pumpkin puree or canned pumpkin.
Coconut Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor. Substitution Note: Brown sugar works if you don’t have coconut sugar.
Gluten-Free Flour Blend – The base for structure; perfect for those avoiding gluten. Substitution Note: 1:1 gluten-free flour blend gives the best results.
Baking Soda – This acts as a leavening agent, ensuring fluffy, soft cookies.
Cinnamon – Imparts warm spice flavor, a hallmark of delicious fall baking.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Coconut Oil – Provides moisture and richness; a lovely fat option that complements the recipe.
Almond Milk – A dairy-free alternative that keeps the dough moist; perfect for vegan baking.
Vanilla Extract – Boosts flavor, rounding out the sweetness in the cookies.

For the Creamy Frosting

Vegan Butter – Essential for a creamy, smooth frosting. Substitution Note: Coconut cream can work well for a non-dairy option.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and forms the structure of the frosting.
Cinnamon – Includes that warm, spicy flavor that pairs so well with pumpkin.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the frosting’s flavor; don’t skip this step!

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create the most inviting batch of Soft Pumpkin Cookies that will warm hearts and homes this fall!

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure your cookies bake evenly and rise perfectly.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This dry mixture sets the stage for your flavors to shine.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, coconut sugar, coconut oil, and almond milk until smooth and creamy. This is where the magic begins!
Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated. Be gentle to keep that soft dough texture intact!
Scoop and Bake: Using a cookie scoop, drop dollops of dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space around each. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the edges start turning lightly golden.
Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This step is crucial for preventing them from breaking apart.
Prepare Frosting: In a bowl, beat the vegan butter with powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until fluffy and creamy. Frost the cooled cookies generously for a delightful finish.

Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their soft texture and moisture.

Fridge: For slightly longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Make sure to keep them in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat frozen cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies?

As the cozy aroma of these delightful treats wafts through your home, it’s time to think about what delightful accompaniments will perfect your autumn experience.

Warm Apple Cider: This seasonal favorite adds spiced sweetness, harmonizing beautifully with the pumpkin and cinnamon flavors of the cookies.
Chai Tea Latte: With its rich spices and creamy texture, this comforting drink complements the soft pumpkin cookies perfectly, giving each bite a cozy feel.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this adds a deliciously cool contrast to the warm cookies, creating a delightful balance of temperatures.
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: These crunchy, savory snacks offer a satisfying textural contrast and amplify the pumpkin theme, making for a delightful combination.
Spiced Nut Mix: A handful of seasoned nuts provides crunchy texture and earthy flavors, enriching your snack experience alongside the cookies.
Maple Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup over the cookies adds a touch of sweetness while enhancing their seasonal charm.
Pecan Pie Bars: For a more indulgent dessert option, these bars echo fall flavors while providing a rich and comforting finish to your meal.
Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: This warm, decadent drink wraps the cookies in a cozy embrace, making them even more inviting with each sip.

Let these delightful pairings elevate your experience of enjoying these soft pumpkin cookies, making them the highlight of your fall gatherings!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies Variations

Feel free to personalize your soft pumpkin cookies with these delightful twists that will cater to every taste bud!

Add Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the softness.
Chocolate Chips: Incorporate dark or dairy-free chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet, decadent surprise in every bite. Chocolate and pumpkin—what a heavenly match!
Maple Sugar: Swap coconut sugar for maple sugar for a rich caramel flavor that celebrates the essence of fall. You’ll love the depth it adds!
Spice it Up: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an added layer of warmth and coziness. This twist will elevate your cookies to another level of fall bliss.
Zest of Orange: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for a bright and refreshing citrus note that balances the earthy pumpkin flavor wonderfully.
Pumpkin Spice Frosting: For an extra touch, mix some pumpkin pie spice into the frosting to enhance the overall flavor profile. Your taste buds will dance with joy!
Coconut Flakes: Stir in sweetened or unsweetened coconut flakes for a tropical hint and chewy texture that’s simply irresistible.
Pumpkin Seed Topping: Garnish each cookie with a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds before baking for a nice crunch and a festive look. A little poetry on your plate!

Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid excess flour, which can lead to dry cookies.
Cooling Time: Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting. This ensures the frosting maintains its shape and richness.
Chill the Dough: For a chewier texture, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking, though this is optional for quicker baking.
Mixing Wet Ingredients: Blend the wet ingredients well to create a smooth batter; lumps can affect the cookie texture negatively.
Baking Time: Watch closely as cookies bake; overbaking can result in tough cookies instead of the intended soft texture.
Storage Tips: Store leftover Soft Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients as instructed, then refrigerate the dough in an airtight container. This not only enhances the flavors but also ensures the cookies remain soft and flavorful upon baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and place them on a lined baking sheet, and bake as directed. Additionally, you can frost the cookies up to 3 days ahead; store the frosting in the fridge and frost them just before serving for that fresh, creamy texture. Rest assured, with these make-ahead options, your cookies will be just as delicious and inviting!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Creamy Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs

What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?
You can use either homemade pumpkin puree or canned pumpkin puree. If you’re making it from scratch, simply roast fresh pumpkin until tender, then mash it until smooth! Stick to using 100% pumpkin puree without additives for the best flavor.

How should I store Soft Pumpkin Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you’re looking to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week, ensuring they stay in a sealed container to maintain their moisture.

Can I freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can remain frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough is too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps firm it up and makes it easier to scoop. Additionally, make sure not to over-measure your flour, as this can also contribute to a stickier dough.

Are these cookies okay for my dietary restrictions?
Yes! These Soft Pumpkin Cookies are vegan and gluten-free, making them perfect for those avoiding animal products and gluten. However, if you have allergies, always double-check ingredient labels, especially for the nut milk and any substitutes you might use, like coconut oil or vegan butter.

How can I enhance the flavor of the frosting?
To amp up the flavor in the frosting, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of maple syrup for a delightful twist! Whip the frosting until it’s light and fluffy for the best texture. If you like it even creamier, mix in a bit of coconut cream along with the vegan butter.