Fall is here, and what better way to celebrate than with Iced Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies? These cookies blend rich pumpkin flavor with wholesome oats, creating the perfect soft treat for any autumn day. In this post, I’ll guide you through simple steps to delight your taste buds and impress your friends. Get ready to bake a batch that fills your kitchen with warm, spicy scents!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Ingredients
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Icing ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk (or almond milk)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
When you gather your ingredients, make sure they are fresh. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in taste. I love using rolled oats because they add a nice chewy texture. The canned pumpkin puree brings that perfect fall flavor. If you want some crunch, add chopped pecans. They blend well with the soft cookie.
For the icing, powdered sugar is key. It gives a sweet finish to each cookie. You can use regular milk or almond milk for a lighter option. The vanilla extract in both the cookie and icing really enhances the flavor.
This recipe is simple and fun. I always find joy in mixing the wet and dry ingredients. You can find the full recipe above for the complete guide. So gather your ingredients and get ready to bake these delightful cookies!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
– In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Stir until everything is well mixed. Then, set this bowl aside.
Mixing
– In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
– Next, add the canned pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.
Baking
– Now, gradually stir the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. If you like, fold in the chopped pecans at this point.
– Drop dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Look for lightly golden edges to know they are ready.
– After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once everything is baked, you can follow the Full Recipe for icing to add a sweet touch to your cookies!
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
– Ensure butter is softened for easier mixing.
– Do not overmix dough to keep cookies soft.
Baking cookies can be simple, but a few tips help make them even better. Start with softened butter. It mixes well with the sugars, giving your cookies a nice texture. Cold butter makes it harder to mix and can lead to dense cookies.
Overmixing is another pitfall. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they come together. This keeps your cookies light and chewy. If you mix too much, they can turn out tough.
Icing Tips
– Adjust icing consistency for drizzling or spreading.
– Let cookies cool completely before adding icing.
Icing is the fun part! You can make it thick or thin based on how you want to use it. If you want to drizzle, add a bit more milk. For spreading, keep it thick.
Make sure your cookies are cool before icing. If they’re warm, the icing will melt right off. Let them cool on a wire rack for the best results. Once cooled, drizzle or spread the icing on top. It adds a sweet finish that makes these iced pumpkin oatmeal cookies a true delight.
For the full recipe, check out the section above. Enjoy baking!
Variations
To make your iced pumpkin oatmeal cookies even more delightful, consider these fun variations.
Nut Alternatives
You can switch out the pecans for walnuts or almonds. Each nut adds a unique flavor and crunch. Walnuts deliver a rich taste, while almonds give a sweet, buttery note. Both make your cookies even more enjoyable.
Flavor Additions
For a flavor boost, try adding chocolate chips or dried cranberries. Chocolate brings a sweet contrast to the spiced pumpkin. Dried cranberries add a tartness that balances the cookie’s sweetness. Feel free to mix and match these additions for a personalized treat.
Gluten-Free Option
If you need a gluten-free option, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Many blends work well in baking. Just make sure to check the blend’s use guidelines for the best results. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty cookies!
For the full recipe, check out the Iced Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies section.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them soft for several days. You can enjoy them fresh for up to a week. If you live in a humid area, check them often to avoid sogginess.
Long-term Storage
If you want to save some for later, freeze your iced cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps to keep them fresh and tasty.
Thawing Instructions
When you’re ready to eat your frozen cookies, thaw them at room temperature. This usually takes about 30 minutes. Enjoy them as they are or re-ice if desired. You’ll love the soft texture and great flavor!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure it’s well-pureed and not too watery. Fresh pumpkin can taste great, but texture matters. If it has too much water, your cookies may turn out soggy. Roasting the pumpkin can enhance its flavor. Just scoop it out and blend until smooth.
How do I make the cookies chewier?
Consider adding an additional egg yolk or reducing flour slightly. This small change can make a big difference. The extra yolk adds moisture, while less flour gives the cookies a softer texture. You might need to experiment a little to find your perfect balance.
How can I adjust the sweetness?
Reduce the sugar amounts or use a sugar substitute for a less sweet cookie. You can lower the brown and granulated sugar by a few tablespoons. If you choose a substitute, make sure it works well in baking. Always taste the dough to find the right level for you.
Is pumpkin oatmeal healthy?
They contain whole oats and pumpkin, making them a nutritious treat in moderation. Oats offer fiber, while pumpkin is rich in vitamins. Enjoying these cookies as a snack or dessert can be part of a balanced diet. Just remember, moderation is key!
This blog post explored making delicious pumpkin oatmeal cookies. We covered essential ingredients, both dry and wet. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparing, mixing, and baking the cookies. We also shared tips for baking and icing, plus tasty variations to consider. Storage methods ensure you can keep your cookies fresh for longer.
By trying these recipes, you can enjoy tasty cookies while exploring different flavors. Happy baking!
