Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

When autumn rolls around, nothing feels cozier than the aroma of pumpkin and warm spices filling your kitchen. Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are the perfect seasonal indulgence—pillowy, flavorful, and topped with a creamy frosting that adds just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday cookie swap, or simply to enjoy with a hot cup of tea, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

• Perfectly soft and moist: Thanks to pumpkin puree, these cookies stay tender and fluffy.

• Warm fall flavors: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves infuse every bite with cozy autumn vibes.

• Frosting perfection: The cinnamon-spiced frosting balances sweetness with a hint of spice.

• Easy to make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe beginner-friendly.

If you’ve been looking for a new fall dessert to try, these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting will quickly become your go-to recipe.

Ingredients for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

For the Cookies:

• 2 ½ cups (300 g) all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

• ½ tsp ground cloves

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ½ cups (300 g) brown sugar

• 1 cup (240 g) canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Frosting:

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar, sifted

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 2–3 tbsp milk or heavy cream

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Required Kitchen Tools

To make these cookies seamlessly, have the following tools ready:

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)

• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Rubber spatula

• Baking sheet(s)

• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

• Cooling rack

• Offset spatula (for frosting)

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter with the brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined. The mixture may look slightly curdled at this stage—don’t worry, that’s normal.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Drop spoonfuls of dough (about 1 ½ tbsp each) onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly golden.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Make the Cinnamon Frosting

Beat softened butter in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cinnamon, mixing on low to prevent sugar clouds. Add vanilla and milk (one tablespoon at a time) until you reach your desired frosting consistency—thick but spreadable.

Step 9: Frost the Cookies

Using an offset spatula or butter knife, spread a generous layer of cinnamon frosting over each cooled cookie.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or 5–6 days in the fridge.

Helpful Tips for the Best Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Use pumpkin puree, not pie filling: Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices, which can throw off the recipe.

Chill the dough (optional): If you prefer a slightly thicker cookie, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.

Don’t overbake: These cookies should remain soft and pillowy. Remove them from the oven as soon as they’re set.

Adjust frosting consistency: For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar. For a thinner glaze-like consistency, add more milk.

Make them ahead: You can bake the cookies in advance and frost them the next day for fresher flavor.

Add a sprinkle of spice: Garnish the frosted cookies with a light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flair.

Make it festive: Add orange sprinkles or crushed pecans on top for a holiday-ready treat.

Variations of Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting

Cream Cheese Cinnamon Frosting: Replace half of the butter in the frosting with cream cheese for a tangy twist.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies: Mix 1 cup of chocolate chips into the dough before baking.

Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.

Spiced Glaze Option: Instead of frosting, drizzle the cookies with a glaze made of powdered sugar, cinnamon, and milk.

Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the cookie dough for crunch.

Storing and Freezing Tips

Room temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Refrigerated: Keeps fresh for up to 5–6 days.

Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months. Frost after thawing for best texture.

Why These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Are Perfect for the Holidays

These cookies embody everything we love about fall baking. They’re not just another pumpkin recipe; they’re a seasonal centerpiece. Their warm aroma, festive flavor, and soft texture make them ideal for:

• Thanksgiving dessert tables

• Halloween parties

• Christmas cookie exchanges

• Fall-themed bake sales

They’re simple enough for weeknight baking yet impressive enough to serve at special gatherings.

Conclusion

If you’re craving a dessert that captures the spirit of fall in every bite, Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are the answer. They’re soft, spiced, and sweetened with a silky frosting that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your baking journey, this recipe is easy to follow and rewarding to make.

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