If you are on the hunt for an irresistibly cozy, melt-in-your-mouth treat, this Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe just might become your new favorite. These cookies are packed with the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, paired perfectly with a luscious cinnamon-spiced frosting that elevates every bite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or simply craving a comforting snack, this recipe promises a soft, tender texture and a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen with fall magic.

Seven circular cupcakes are arranged closely on a white plate with a soft beige rim. Each cupcake has one thick layer of golden brown cake topped with a light tan swirled frosting piped in a spiral shape. The frosting is dusted with a fine layer of brown powder, giving a textured look. The plate rests on a cream-colored woven fabric on a white marbled surface. Near the plate, there are a few small orange pumpkins and a brown glass jar candle that adds a warm tone to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect blend of flavor, softness, and spice that makes these cookies so special.

1/2 cup vegan butter, softened: Adds creaminess and richness while keeping the cookies tender.
1/4 cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that brings moisture and that beloved autumn flavor.
1/4 cup brown sugar: Offers a deep caramel sweetness and helps retain moisture.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s structure.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the warm flavors and adds a subtle aromatic note.
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that shapes the soft cookies.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Leavens the dough for a light, fluffy texture.
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: Blends cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for that unmistakable fall flavor.
2 teaspoons cornstarch: Keeps the cookies tender and helps achieve the desired softness.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
1 cup vegan butter, softened (for frosting): Creates a creamy base for the cinnamon frosting.
3 teaspoons vanilla paste (or extract): Adds a pure vanilla kick to the frosting.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Gives the frosting a warm, spicy spark.
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon): Adds a complementary depth of flavor to the frosting.
1/3 cup brown sugar: Infuses the frosting with richness and subtle sweetness.
3 1/4 cups powdered sugar: Provides the perfect sweetness and texture for piping.

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Cream Your Base

Starting off, blend the softened vegan butter, pumpkin puree, both sugars, and vanilla extract in a stand mixer or a large bowl. Whip these together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and beautifully combined. This step sets the stage for those soft cookies by incorporating air and ensuring sweetness is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cornstarch, and salt. This dry mix ensures your cookies get the perfect texture and that warming spice blend that makes pumpkin cookies so irresistible.

Step 3: Bring it All Together

Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed, just until everything comes together. Be gentle here because overmixing can toughen the dough. Once combined, cover and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes or better yet, overnight, which enhances the flavors and helps create that coveted soft texture.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350 °F (177 °C). Scoop 2-inch balls of chilled dough, then press them into flat disks since these cookies won’t spread much during baking. Place them spaced out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Let them cool fully on the sheet — this step is critical for frosting later.

Step 5: Whip Up the Cinnamon Frosting

Mix together the softened vegan butter, vanilla paste, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. If preparing ahead, chill it covered until ready to pipe onto your cookies.

Step 6: Pipe and Decorate

Using a piping bag fitted with a Wilton Piping Tip #2A, apply the cinnamon frosting in a simple swirl pattern starting from the middle of each cookie and moving outward. A sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice on top finishes these cookies off with a fragrant and eye-catching touch.

How to Serve Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Adding a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice or a tiny pinch of cinnamon on top of the frosting adds an extra burst of fall flavor and makes the cookies look even more inviting. For a fun twist, try adding a few finely chopped toasted pecans or a sprinkle of edible gold glitter for special occasions.

Side Dishes

These soft pumpkin cookies pair delightfully with warm beverages like spiced chai, cinnamon-laced coffee, or a creamy hot chocolate. Pairing with a scoop of vanilla vegan ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream turns them into a decadent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these cookies on a rustic wooden board alongside mini pumpkins and autumn leaves for a charming presentation at your next get-together. For gifting, stack a few cookies in a tin lined with parchment paper and tie it with a cinnamon stick and twine for a heartfelt seasonal gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay wonderfully soft for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is okay but let the cookies come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the un-frosted cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Frosted cookies can also be frozen in a single layer on a tray, then stacked with parchment in between once solid.

Reheating

Warm the cookies gently in a low oven (around 275 °F) for 5-7 minutes to revive softness and freshen up the frosting. Avoid microwaving as it can make the frosting too runny or the cookies overly soft.

FAQs

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

Absolutely! Regular butter can replace vegan butter one-for-one in this recipe, yielding equally soft and flavorful cookies.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the perfect soft texture and to make shaping easier. It also helps the flavors develop fully.

Can I substitute pumpkin pie spice with individual spices?

For sure! Combine cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger to create your own pumpkin pie spice blend if you don’t have it on hand.

How do I prevent my frosting from being too runny?

Make sure your vegan butter is fully softened but not melted, and sift your powdered sugar before mixing. If it’s still too soft, refrigerate the frosting briefly before piping.

Are these cookies allergy-friendly?

This version is vegan and dairy-free, making it suitable for those avoiding animal products. Just ensure your ingredients are free from specific allergens as needed.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about baking and sharing Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe. It’s not just a cookie; it’s a hug in dessert form that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and let your kitchen fill with those cozy fall scents while you enjoy every soft, spiced, and frosted bite. Happy baking!

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe