Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe air is crisp, and the leaves are turning vibrant hues – it’s the perfect time for a cozy baking session! My soft vegan pumpkin cookies with creamy cinnamon frosting are the ultimate treat to embrace the fall season. Not only do they fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting scent of spices, but they’re also a deliciously healthy option that everyone will love. These cookies are simple to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for gatherings or a sweet pick-me-up during a busy week. Plus, with choices for gluten-free and refined sugar-free options, you’re set to cater to various dietary needs without compromising on taste. Curious to find out how to create this seasonal delight? Let’s dive in! Why are these cookies a must-try? Irresistible Flavor: These soft pumpkin cookies are packed with the warm, spiced essence of fall, making each bite a delightful experience. Cinnamon Frosting: The creamy topping is the perfect complement, adding a sweet richness that elevates the simple cookie to bakery-level indulgence. Vegan and Healthy: Enjoy a guilt-free treat with this refined sugar-free and vegan recipe that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Easy to Make: The straightforward process means you can whip these up in no time—perfect for last-minute surprises or cozy gatherings. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, these cookies are sure to please. For more fall-inspired treats, check out these delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese muffins or Apple Cinnamon Kodiak cakes! Soft Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients For the Cookies Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and a subtle pumpkin flavor; use canned or homemade puree for best results. Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and enhances chewiness; can substitute with coconut sugar for a refined-sugar-free option. Coconut Oil – Acts as a fat for tenderness; substitute with vegan butter or refined oil for different flavor profiles. Flour (Gluten-Free Blend) – Provides structure; use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or all-purpose flour if not gluten-free. Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise; ensuring it’s fresh will yield the best results. Cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor; adjust the quantity for more or less spice based on preference. Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor depth; opt for pure extract to elevate your cookies. For the Frosting Vegan Cream Cheese – The base for the frosting, providing a creamy texture; substitute with nut or soy-based cream cheese alternatives if desired. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and creates a smooth texture; feel free to reduce for a less sweet frosting. These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting will become your new fall favorite by filling your home with cozy aromas and delightful tastes! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This ensures an easy cleanup and helps maintain their soft texture as they bake. Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, ½ cup of melted coconut oil, and 1 cup of brown sugar. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients until the mixture appears smooth and slightly glossy, inviting the warm, cozy flavors of your Soft Pumpkin Cookies. Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients Next, add 2 cups of gluten-free flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet mixture. Gently stir the ingredients together until thoroughly incorporated, forming a sticky dough that symbolizes the essence of fall. Step 4: Shape the Cookies Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, shape the cookies into round discs for a more polished look. These dollops will spread slightly during baking, creating the soft, chewy texture you aim for. Step 5: Bake the Cookies Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know the cookies are ready when the edges appear set and the tops look softly puffed and barely golden. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake, as you want that soft texture in your Soft Pumpkin Cookies. Step 6: Cool the Cookies After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This resting period allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack, where they can cool completely and develop their delightful flavors. Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Frosting While the cookies cool, prepare the cinnamon frosting. In a separate mixing bowl, beat together 8 oz of vegan cream cheese and 1 cup of powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. The frosting should be thick yet spreadable, enveloping the cookies in a decadent layer of sweetness. Step 8: Frost the Cookies Once the cookies have cooled completely, gently frost the tops using a spatula or piping bag. Swirl the creamy cinnamon frosting over each cookie, creating beautiful, inviting peaks that emphasize the deliciousness of your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting. Step 9: Serve or Store Your delightful cookies are now ready to serve! Enjoy them fresh with a cup of cider or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to 7 days, savoring the flavors of fall with every bite. Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies Check Pumpkin Purée: Ensure your pumpkin puree is well-drained. Excess moisture can lead to soggy cookies, so pat it dry if necessary. Avoid Overbaking: For the perfect chewy texture in your Soft Pumpkin Cookies, take them out when they’re just set around the edges. They’ll firm up as they cool! Customize Your Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust the cinnamon according to your taste. For a richer flavor, consider adding nutmeg or ginger alongside your cinnamon. Quality Ingredients Matter: Use pure vanilla extract and fresh baking soda. These small choices greatly enhance the flavor and rise of your cookies. Frosting Consistency: If your cinnamon frosting feels too thick, add a splash of non-dairy milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable texture—perfect for those beautiful swirls! What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Indulge in a warm, cozy atmosphere while enjoying your freshly baked treats alongside delightful complements that enhance their seasonal goodness. Maple Pecan Latte: The nutty flavors play beautifully with the spices in the cookies, creating a warm beverage pairing that’s perfect for chilly days. Apple Crisp: This warm and comforting dessert adds a fruity twist, enhancing the pumpkin flavor and offering a delightful textural contrast. Vanilla Almond Milk: A creamy, lightly sweetened drink that refreshingly balances the rich flavors in your cookies, perfect for dipping! Chai Tea: With its aromatic spices, chai tea echoes the cinnamon notes in the frosting, creating a harmonious taste experience. Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: A hearty side dish featuring nutty butternut squash, leafy greens, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ sweetness. Cranberry Sauce: Tart and tangy, a spoonful of homemade cranberry sauce can brighten up the rich flavors of the cookies while celebrating seasonal ingredients. Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Add a touch of elegance by drizzling melted dark chocolate over the cookies. The bittersweet notes elevate their flavor profile in a scrumptious way. Pumpkin Spice Smoothie: Spiral in the pumpkin theme with a bright, creamy smoothie that includes banana, almond milk, and a sprinkle of spice for a nourishing pairing. How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies Room Temperature: Store your Soft Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to keep them soft and flavorful. Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 7 days. Just make sure they are sealed properly to avoid absorbing any fridge odors. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw cookies at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds. Frost when fully cooled for the best results! Soft Pumpkin Cookies Variations & Substitutions Feel free to experiment and make these pumpkin cookies your own with these delightful twists! Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive friends while maintaining that soft texture. Nutty Texture: Mix in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that will elevate each bite, adding a rich nutty flavor. Chocolate Lovers: Stir in ½ cup of dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every cookie, marrying the flavors of chocolate and pumpkin beautifully. Natural Sweetness: Substitute maple syrup for brown sugar. This adds unique depth and complexity while keeping the cookies moist and delicious. Spice it Up: Experiment with ½ teaspoon of ginger or nutmeg for added warmth and a spiced twist that captures the essence of fall. You could even use pumpkin pie spice for an all-in-one flavor enhancer! Cream Cheese Twist: For the frosting, try using coconut cream in place of vegan cream cheese for a lighter, tropical twist that still delivers creaminess. Heat Factor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a surprising kick that complements the sweetness perfectly. It’s an exciting change for those who love a little heat! Frosting Variations: Consider a tangy lemon glaze instead of cinnamon frosting for an unexpected, refreshing contrast that brightens the taste of your cookies! With options like these, your Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting can truly become a go-to treat for any occasion. For more seasonal recipes, don’t forget to check out these fantastic Moist Strawberry Frosting cakes or indulge in some delicious Gingerbread Men Cookies! Make Ahead Options These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients, then refrigerating the dough until you’re ready to bake. This not only allows the flavors to meld but also makes your baking session quick and easy. Additionally, the frosting can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to indulge, simply scoop and bake the dough before frosting the cookies—this way, your treats will be just as delightful as if you made them fresh that day! Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe FAQs What type of pumpkin puree should I use? You can use either canned pumpkin puree or homemade if you have the time! Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices. If using fresh pumpkin, roast and blend it until smooth and well-drained for the best results. How should I store my Soft Pumpkin Cookies? Absolutely! To keep your cookies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to prolong their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to 7 days, ensuring they are covered to avoid drying out. Can I freeze these cookies? How? Yes, you can freeze these lovely cookies! To do this, first, freeze the unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature, and add the frosting once completely cooled! What if my cookies turn out dry or crumbly? If your Soft Pumpkin Cookies turn out dry, it’s often due to overbaking. For the best texture, keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking; they should look gently set but not golden. If you’re still worried about dryness, try adding a touch more coconut oil or pumpkin puree to enhance moisture in your dough! Are these cookies safe for pets or people with allergies? These cookies are vegan and gluten-free options are available, but do check for allergies. The main allergens here would be coconut (if someone is allergic to it), and you should confirm that any flour you use is certified gluten-free if necessary. Always know that it’s best to consult with a doctor about dietary restrictions concerning pets as certain ingredients, like nuts, can be harmful to them. Can I substitute any ingredients for healthier options? Very! If you’re looking to make your Soft Pumpkin Cookies even healthier, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a refined-sugar-free version. You can also swap out the coconut oil for applesauce in the dough for a lower-fat alternative, though the texture may slightly vary. Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting to Delight Your Fall Soft pumpkin cookies with creamy cinnamon frosting are the perfect treat for fall, offering a deliciously healthy option that everyone will love. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 32 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookies1 cup Pumpkin Puree Use canned or homemade puree for best results.1/2 cup Coconut Oil Melted; substitute with vegan butter or refined oil if desired.1 cup Brown Sugar Can substitute with coconut sugar for a refined-sugar-free option.2 cups Flour (Gluten-Free Blend) Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or all-purpose flour if not gluten-free.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Ensure it's fresh for best results.1 teaspoon Cinnamon Adjust the quantity for more or less spice as preferred.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Opt for pure extract to elevate flavor.For the Frosting8 oz Vegan Cream Cheese Base for frosting; substitute with nut or soy-based alternatives if desired.1 cup Powdered Sugar Feel free to reduce for a less sweet frosting. Equipment OvenMixing bowlbaking sheetParchment paperWhiskspatula Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon FrostingPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil, and brown sugar. Mix until smooth and glossy.Add gluten-free flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to the wet mixture. Stir until thoroughly incorporated.Drop dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set and tops are softly puffed.Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.In a separate bowl, beat together vegan cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.Once cookies are cool, frost the tops with the cinnamon frosting.Serve fresh or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 50mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore unfrosted cookies in a single layer in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw before frosting for the best results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
