Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

ByJOHN
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Why Make This Recipe

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are the perfect treat for any occasion, especially during the fall season. There’s something magical about the combination of pumpkin and spices that brings the warm flavors of autumn right into your kitchen. These cookies are soft, chewy, and topped with a deliciously creamy cinnamon frosting that makes them irresistible. They are easy to whip up and are delightful for gatherings, snacks, or even as a special dessert. Plus, they can be made vegan, making them suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Here’s why you should make this recipe:

  1. Easy to Make: The steps are simple, and they don’t require special kitchen equipment. Anyone can bake these cookies, regardless of their skill level.

  2. Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to brighten someone’s day, these cookies are great for sharing. They are always a hit at parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.

  3. Deliciously Unique: Unlike regular cookies, the addition of pumpkin puree brings moisture and a unique flavor that sets these cookies apart.

  4. Versatile: You can enjoy these cookies as they are or customize them with different spices or toppings to suit your taste.

  5. Comfort Food: Eating a cookie with soft, warm spices feels like a cozy hug, making them perfect for those chilly nights.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Making Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting is a delightful baking experience that will fill your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas. Here’s how to make them in simple steps:

Ingredients

To create these delicious cookies, gather the following ingredients:

  • 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
  • For Frosting:
    • 1 cup vegan butter
    • 3 teaspoons vanilla paste (or extract)
    • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
    • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or more cinnamon)
    • 1/3 cup brown sugar (for frosting)
    • 3 1/4 cups powdered sugar

Directions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy.

  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures that they are evenly combined before adding them to the wet mixture.

  3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, using low speed on your mixer until the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

  4. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, letting it chill overnight helps improve the flavor.

  5. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

  6. Shape the Cookies: Once the dough has chilled, use a scoop or your hands to form 2-inch balls. Place these balls onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly with your palm.

  7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

  8. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack completely before frosting them.

  9. Make the Frosting: In a separate mixing bowl, whip together the frosting ingredients: vegan butter, vanilla paste, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and powdered sugar. Beat until the mixture becomes fluffy and well-combined.

  10. Frost: Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread or pipe the cinnamon frosting onto the cookies. For a decorative touch, sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice on top.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting can be served in various ways. Here are some popular suggestions:

  1. As a Snack: Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon snack.

  2. At Parties: Arrange them on a beautiful platter for parties or potlucks, and watch them disappear!

  3. Dessert: Serve them after dinner, perhaps with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream.

  4. Holiday Treats: These cookies make excellent gifts during the holidays. Pack them in decorative boxes or tins to share with family and friends.

  5. Lunchbox Goodies: They are also a great addition to lunchboxes for kids or adults.

How to Store Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Properly storing your Soft Pumpkin Cookies will keep them fresh for longer. Here are a few tips:

  1. Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cookies within 3 to 4 days, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

  2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the cookies in the refrigerator. They will last about a week when stored this way. Place parchment paper between layers if stacking them to avoid sticking.

  3. Freezing: You can also freeze these cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To serve, simply pull them out and let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Tips to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh spices to ensure the best flavor. If possible, ground your spices just before using.

  2. Don’t Overbake: The cookies should look soft and slightly puffy when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a little underdone.

  3. Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. It helps the flavors meld and results in a better final product.

  4. Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits to the cookie dough for added texture and flavor.

  5. Adjust the Frosting: If you like a less sweet frosting, reduce the amount of powdered sugar. You can also add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Variations

You can easily adapt this recipe to keep it interesting. Here are a few variations:

  1. Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet contrast to the pumpkin and spice flavors.

  2. Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.

  3. Extracts: Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or maple, to infuse unique flavors into the cookies.

  4. Different Frosting: For a tangy twist, try a cream cheese or maple frosting instead of the cinnamon frosting.

  5. Gluten-Free Option: To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

FAQs

  1. Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?
    Yes, you can replace vegan butter with regular butter if you are not following a vegan lifestyle. The recipe will still work well.

  2. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
    The cookies should have set edges and look slightly glossy in the middle when done. They should not be overly brown, as they will continue to cook while cooling.

  3. Can I freeze the frosting?
    Yes, you can freeze the frosting. Store it in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to use it, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

  4. What is pumpkin puree, and can I make my own?
    Pumpkin puree is cooked and pureed pumpkin. You can make your own by roasting, scooping, and blending fresh pumpkin or squash until smooth. However, canned pumpkin puree works just fine for this recipe.

  5. Can I add more spices to enhance the flavor?
    Absolutely! If you like a stronger spice flavor, feel free to increase the amount of pumpkin pie spice or add a touch of nutmeg or ginger.

By following these tips and variations, you can make your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting a unique experience each time. Enjoy baking and the delicious flavors that come with it!

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