Welcome to your new favorite fall recipe! Soft pumpkin cookies with a creamy cinnamon frosting will make your taste buds dance. If you love a cozy, sweet treat that’s easy to make, this is for you. I’ll guide you step-by-step, sharing tips and tricks to ensure your cookies come out soft and delicious. Let’s dive into the warm flavors of autumn with these delightful cookies!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Soft Pumpkin Cookies
To make soft pumpkin cookies, you need simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
These ingredients blend together to create a soft, moist cookie that bursts with pumpkin flavor.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Frosting
The frosting adds a sweet touch. Here’s what you need for the cinnamon frosting:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
This frosting is creamy and rich, making your cookies even more delightful.
Optional Garnishes and Enhancements
You can make your cookies look even better and taste great with some easy garnishes:
– A sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top
– Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts
– Mini chocolate chips for added sweetness
These optional touches can elevate your cookie game and impress your friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will stop cookies from sticking. Using parchment makes cleanup easy too.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, add 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter. Then, mix in 1 cup of brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Beat these together until they become creamy. Next, add in 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, 1 large egg, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix everything until it is well combined and smooth.
Combining Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. You will need 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your cookies may become tough.
Forming and Baking the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each dough ball. This space allows the cookies to spread while baking. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Look for slightly golden edges and soft centers. After baking, let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Cinnamon Frosting
While your cookies cool, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, add 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter. Beat it until creamy. Gradually mix in 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Then, add 2 tablespoons of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat this mixture until it is fluffy and smooth.
Frosting the Cookies and Final Touches
Once the cookies are completely cool, it’s time to frost them. Spread a generous amount of cinnamon frosting on top of each cookie. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top. Enjoy your soft pumpkin cookies with a warm drink!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Soft Cookies
To make soft pumpkin cookies, use the right amount of pumpkin puree. This moisture keeps the cookies tender. Avoid overmixing the dough as this can make them tough. When you bake, watch closely; remove them when they are just slightly golden at the edges. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack. This helps keep the softness intact.
Storing Leftover Cookie Dough
If you have extra cookie dough, you can store it easily. First, shape it into balls. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the cookie balls to a zip-top bag. Label the bag with the date. You can keep the dough in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, just pull out the dough and bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Perfecting the Cinnamon Frosting Consistency
To make the frosting just right, start with softened butter. It should feel creamy, not too hard. Add powdered sugar gradually, mixing well after each addition. If the frosting feels too thick, add a splash of milk. For a thinner frosting, add more milk a little at a time. If it’s too thin, mix in more powdered sugar until you reach the desired thickness. This lets you spread it easily on the cookies.
Variations
Adding Nuts or Chocolate Chips
You can make these cookies even better by adding nuts or chocolate chips. Nuts like walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. About 1 cup of chopped nuts works well. If you love chocolate, add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. This will give your cookies a sweet surprise with each bite. Just fold them into the dough before you scoop it onto the baking sheet. This small change can make a big difference in flavor and texture.
Making Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cookies
If you need gluten-free cookies, it is easy to adjust the recipe. Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that works well for baking. You might also want to add a little extra baking powder, about 1/4 teaspoon, to help the cookies rise. This will keep them soft and fluffy. Follow the same steps, and you will have tasty gluten-free pumpkin cookies.
Alternative Frosting Ideas
While the cinnamon frosting is delicious, you can try other frostings too. Cream cheese frosting adds a tangy flavor. To make it, mix 8 oz of softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup of butter. Add 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Another option is maple frosting. Use maple syrup instead of milk in the cinnamon frosting. This gives a warm, sweet taste that pairs well with pumpkin. Feel free to get creative and find your favorite flavor!
Storage Info
Storing Cookies at Room Temperature
You can keep your soft pumpkin cookies at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them soft and tasty. They stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you live in a warm area, consider storing them in a cool place.
Freezing Cookies for Later
Freezing cookies is a great option for later enjoyment. To freeze, let the cookies cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour. After that, move them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw at room temperature.
Best Practices for Preserving Freshness
To keep your cookies fresh, avoid exposing them to air. Use parchment paper between layers if stacking. This helps prevent sticking. Adding a slice of bread in the container can also help. The bread keeps the cookies moist. Enjoy soft pumpkin cookies whenever you crave a sweet treat!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Start by roasting or steaming the pumpkin. After cooking, mash it well. Make sure to remove excess moisture. This helps get the right texture in your cookies.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for slightly golden edges. The centers should remain soft. Usually, this takes about 10 to 12 minutes in the oven. A toothpick test works too! If it comes out clean, your cookies are ready.
What can I substitute for butter in the frosting?
You can use coconut oil or vegan butter. Both provide a nice, creamy texture. Just ensure they are softened, just like regular butter. This will keep your frosting smooth and spreadable.
How long do these cookies last?
These cookies can last about a week. Store them in an airtight container. For longer freshness, freeze them. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, making the dough ahead is a great idea! Chill it in the fridge for up to two days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking.
Soft pumpkin cookies bring joy in every bite. You learned the key ingredients and steps to bake them. Mixing wet and dry ingredients is crucial for softness. I shared tips on frosting and storing your cookies too. Remember, you can add nuts or chocolate for fun twists.
Try using fresh pumpkin or making your own frostings. With these techniques, your cookies will impress everyone. Enjoy your baking journey and the delicious results!
