Introduction to Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving the warm, cozy flavors of fall. That’s where these Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting come in! They’re not just cookies; they’re little bites of happiness that can brighten even the busiest of days. Whether you’re looking for a quick treat to whip up after a long day or a delightful dessert to impress your loved ones, these cookies are the answer. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be transported to a pumpkin patch on a sunny afternoon!
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Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting: Delightful Treats Await!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft and fluffy pumpkin cookies topped with a sweet cinnamon frosting, perfect for fall or any festive occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 2 tbsp milk (for frosting)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely before frosting.
- For the frosting, mix powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the frosting on top of the cooled cookies and enjoy!
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- For a spicier flavor, add more cinnamon or a pinch of cloves.
- These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting
These Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic days. Plus, the combination of soft, fluffy cookies and sweet, creamy frosting is simply irresistible. You’ll love how they fill your home with the warm aroma of fall, creating a cozy atmosphere that everyone will appreciate!
Ingredients for Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show! It adds moisture and that lovely pumpkin flavor.
- Sugar: A must for sweetness, balancing the spices and enhancing the cookie’s flavor.
- Butter: Softened butter gives the cookies a rich, tender texture. You can use unsalted for better control over saltiness.
- Egg: This binds everything together, helping the cookies rise and stay soft.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookies, providing structure. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Baking soda and baking powder: These leavening agents help the cookies rise, making them fluffy and light.
- Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that brings out the fall flavors. Feel free to add more for a spicier kick!
- Ground nutmeg: This adds a hint of warmth and depth, complementing the cinnamon beautifully.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making them pop.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds a lovely aroma and sweetness.
- Powdered sugar: Essential for the frosting, giving it that sweet, creamy texture.
- Milk: This helps achieve the perfect consistency for the frosting. You can use almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Additional ground cinnamon: For the frosting, it adds that extra touch of flavor.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is crucial for baking these Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting. It ensures that the cookies bake evenly and rise properly. A hot oven helps create that perfect fluffy texture we all love!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is vital for achieving the right texture. It incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies soft and tender. Trust me, this is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Mix in Pumpkin and Egg
Next, add the pumpkin puree and egg to the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. This creates a smooth batter that’s packed with flavor. The pumpkin adds moisture, making your cookies irresistibly soft!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices. This step is key to achieving that perfect balance of flavors!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently. Be careful not to overwork the dough; this can lead to tough cookies. Just mix until everything is combined, and you’ll have a lovely, thick batter ready for shaping!
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie for even baking. This little tip helps them spread perfectly while they bake!
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when the edges are lightly golden. A little trick? Gently press the center; if it springs back, they’re ready to come out!
Step 8: Cool and Frost
Once baked, let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. This is important to prevent the frosting from melting. While they cool, prepare your sweet cinnamon frosting by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon until smooth. Then, spread it generously on top!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Don’t skip the cooling step; it keeps the frosting from melting.
- For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar.
- Experiment with spices; a pinch of cloves can add a delightful twist!
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing and a smaller one for dry ingredients. You can use any size you have on hand.
- Electric mixer: Ideal for creaming butter and sugar, but a whisk works too!
- Baking sheet: A standard cookie sheet or any flat baking pan will do.
- Parchment paper: For easy cleanup; aluminum foil can be a substitute.
- Cookie scoop or spoon: For shaping the cookies; a tablespoon works just fine!
Variations of Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting
- Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful twist that combines pumpkin and chocolate.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter for a plant-based treat.
- Spiced Pumpkin Cookies: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cloves or ginger to the dry ingredients for a spicier kick.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin.
Serving Suggestions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting
- Pair these cookies with a warm cup of spiced chai or apple cider for a cozy treat.
- Serve them on a festive platter, garnished with cinnamon sticks for a beautiful presentation.
- For a fun twist, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side!
FAQs about Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin until smooth. It will give your Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting a fresh flavor that’s hard to beat!
How do I store these cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper!
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the frosting a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to frost, let it sit at room temperature for a bit to soften.
What can I substitute for butter in the recipe?
If you need a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. This will still give you that rich flavor in your Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the cookies?
Definitely! Adding nuts or chocolate chips can elevate your cookies. Just fold them in gently before baking for a delightful surprise in every bite!
Final Thoughts
Making these Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Sweet Cinnamon Frosting is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The aroma wafting through your home will wrap you in warmth, inviting everyone to gather around. Each bite is a reminder of cozy fall days and sweet moments shared with loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or sharing them at a gathering, these cookies bring joy and comfort. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and let the magic of baking fill your heart and home with happiness!