Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are my fall go-to when life stays busy. I’m a chef who loves practical kitchen magic.
I design recipes that deliver bakery-soft cookies with minimal fuss. So busy moms and professionals can enjoy a moment of comfort.
I learned early that fall flavors—pumpkin, cinnamon, brown sugar—bring warmth to a hectic schedule. I’ve built this recipe to be reliable, scalable, and forgiving.
This article walks you through a simple method. From preheating the oven to whisking a creamy frosting, it tastes sunny and spicy. Grab a bowl, set a timer, and bake along with me. Whether you’re busy or not, these cookies store well.
Table of Contents
What makes Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting special
What makes Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting special? For me, they strike a balance between comfort and practicality. I love that the dough comes together with pantry staples, and the cookies bake up tender without fuss. The spices echo autumn—cinnamon, nutmeg—while the creamy cinnamon frosting adds a bakery-worthy finish with minimal effort. They freeze beautifully, so I can bake in smaller batches or stash for busy weeks. The recipe scales from a quick snack for one to a treat for a whole crew, making it a reliable go-to when time is tight but cravings are warm and sweet.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting: Why this recipe is perfect for busy days
Busy days demand rewards that arrive fast. This recipe comes together quickly, bakes in minutes, and yields forgiving cookies. I can mix up the dough in one bowl, bake a batch, then freeze extras for later.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting: Texture, flavor, and mood booster
The texture is bakery-soft—tender in the center with a slightly crisp edge. Warm pumpkin, brown sugar, and spice lift the mood, while the cinnamon frosting feels like a hug you can eat.
Why You’ll Love This Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are my secret weapon for busy days. I love how this treat delivers bakery-soft centers in minutes, with pantry-friendly ingredients. The warm pumpkin spice, gentle sweetness, and creamy frosting turn a quick bake into a mood-lifter. They’re forgiving if you overmix, easy to scale for a crowd, and perfect for a bake-and-freeze routine that keeps breakfast or snack time calm. They fit into late-night baking marathons too.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting: Benefits and practicality
With Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, I get a warm treat without a long grocery list. One bowl, a quick mix, and I’m ready to bake. The cookies stay tender, store well, and reheat softly, which helps on weekdays when time slips away. The frosting adds charm without extra steps, making it easy to share with neighbors, coworkers, or the kids after school.
Ingredients
What to gather for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
I like to set out everything I’ll need. For Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, a simple, organized mise en place keeps me calm on busy days. This quick list covers everything in the recipe, from pantry staples to the frosting fixings. Exact quantities are printed at the bottom for printing.
- All-purpose flour — the sturdy base that builds a tender crumb
- Baking soda — helps the cookies rise just enough
- Baking powder — adds gentle lift for a soft bite
- Salt — brightens sweetness and flavors
- Cinnamon — gives that warm, cozy fall aroma
- Nutmeg — a whisper of autumn spice
- Unsalted butter, softened — for moisture and richness
- Brown sugar — adds depth and moisture
- Egg — helps bind and set the dough
- Vanilla extract — rounds and enhances flavors
- Pumpkin puree — delivers pumpkin flavor and tenderness
- For the frosting: butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, milk, vanilla
- ¼ cup butter, softened — frosting foundation
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar — creamy sweetness
- 1 tsp cinnamon — frosting warmth
- 2 tbsp milk — adjusts frosting consistency
- ½ tsp vanilla extract — subtle depth in frosting

How to Make Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Step 1: Preheat, line pan, and whisk dry ingredients
I preheat the oven to 350 degrees F for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting.
Line a sheet with parchment and whisk the dry ingredients.
Then I pause to scent the cinnamon—my kitchen smells like fall.
Step 2 : Cream butter and brown sugar
In a large bowl, I cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
I stop to scrape the bowl so every bite stays tender.
This is the moment the kitchen welcomes sweetness without being heavy.
Step 3 : Add egg, vanilla, and pumpkin puree to the mixture
I beat in the egg, vanilla, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
The batter should look glossy and cozy.
If it looks split, give it one more gentle stir.
Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients
I sprinkle the dry mix over the wet, then blend just until combined.
Overmixing can toughen cookies, so I stop as soon as it comes together.
The dough should be soft, not stiff or crumbly.
Step 5: Scoop dough and bake
I scoop 1½ tablespoons of dough and space them 2 inches apart.
They bake 10–12 minutes until tops set and centers look just baked.
Let the cookies cool completely before frosting for clean edges.
Step 6: Make the frosting
In a small bowl, beat butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, milk, and vanilla.
Add milk gradually to reach a smooth, pipeable consistency.
Taste a tiny bit and adjust cinnamon if you love more warmth.
Step 7: Frost cookies and set
Frost cooled cookies generously, then let the frosting set for about 15 minutes.
I use a spoon or a piping bag for pretty swirls.
These cinnamon-scented cookies taste best after resting a bit.
Step 8: Quick recap and serving tip
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting come together in minutes.
Keep extras in the fridge or freeze for busy weeks.
Serve with coffee or tea and share the fall magic.

Tips for Success
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting – Quick tips for best results
As a busy home cook, I rely on small tricks to save time and ensure Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting stay tender. Keep your dough cool if sticky; chilling 15–30 minutes makes scooping easier. Measure flour correctly: spoon and level, not scoop from the bag. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F, and don’t overmix. Frost when cookies are completely cooled for clean edges. Keep frosting batches for joy.
Equipment Needed
For Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, I rely on a small, reliable setup.
A stand mixer or a good hand mixer makes cream-sugar magic easy.
A sturdy mixing bowl, measuring cups, and a rubber spatula keep batter smooth. A parchment-lined baking sheet prevents sticking and speeds cleanup in my kitchen, too.
Essential tools for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Essential tools for this recipe keep the process smooth.
I reach for a 1½-tablespoon cookie scoop, parchment paper, a whisk, a spatula, a cooling rack, and a sturdy cookie sheet.
An oven thermometer helps me lock in 350°F, and a small timer guards against overbaking. I also appreciate a fearless, easy-to-clean mixing spoon.
Variations
Dairy-free option for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
I love dairy-free options, especially for busy households with sensitivities. For Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting, swap in 1:1 plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk like almond milk for the frosting. The cookies stay tender thanks to pumpkin and spice.
Gluten-free version for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
To make a gluten-free version, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your baking powder is GF. If your blend lacks xanthan gum, add a pinch. The cookies bake similarly but may look softer; chilling helps.
Spice and texture variations for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Spice and texture variations punch up Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting. Try a pinch of ginger or allspice, or fold in finely chopped pecans or oats for crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Pairings and presentation ideas for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
I love pairing Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting with a hot cup of coffee or chai. The frosting’s creaminess meets pumpkin-spice warmth for a comforting bite.
I plate them on a rustic platter, dust with cinnamon, and add a tiny autumn leaf for vibe. I plate them with milk or espresso for a cozy finish.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
Making Make-Ahead options for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting keeps weeknights calm and mornings sweeter. I bake extra batches and freeze them for later, so I can melt into the day without missing dessert.
For best texture, store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature up to three days, or freeze for up to three months.
If you freeze dough, scoop portions, freeze flat, then bag. Thaw before baking for even rise.
Freezing and thawing guidance for Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
I keep baked Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting in the freezer for fast mornings. Freeze unfrosted cookies on a single layer, then stack with parchment for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp 20–30 minutes, or warm in a 300°F oven 5 minutes to revive softness. Frosting can be added after thaw if you prefer; otherwise, frost then freeze for a shorter time to prevent melting.

FAQs
Can I freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?
Yes. Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting freeze beautifully, helping you keep a stash for busy weeks. For best texture, freeze cookies unfrosted and frost after thawing. Arrange cooled cookies on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to two to three months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and optionally re-warm gently in a 300°F oven for a few minutes.
How should I store Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?
Storing them properly keeps that bakery-soft texture. Keep baked Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for about a week or freeze for several months. If you frost them, place parchment between layers to prevent sticking and maintain the frosting’s shine. When you’re ready to enjoy, bring them to room temp for best flavor.
Can I substitute ingredients in Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting?
Absolutely. You can tailor the recipe to your pantry. Use a 1:1 dairy-free butter substitute and dairy-free milk in the frosting, if needed. Swap in a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and add a pinch of xanthan gum if your mix lacks it. You can replace the egg with a flax egg or applesauce, though texture may shift slightly. The pumpkin keeps the cookie moist regardless.
Final Thoughts
I’m grateful for these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting. They turn a hectic afternoon into a warm ritual. When the kitchen fills with pumpkin and cinnamon, I feel calmer and more present. Baking isn’t just food. It’s a small act of care that travels from my heart to the room.
May these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting be a gentle reminder to slow down, even for a moment. I love sharing them with neighbors, coworkers, and the kids after school. If today is crazy, bake a batch anyway— the aroma alone can reset a day. And a cookie or two makes growing a little sweeter.
Print
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting:5 Fun Cozy Hot.
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are tender autumn cookies bursting with pumpkin spice, topped with a creamy cinnamon frosting.
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp milk (more if needed for texture)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg, vanilla, and pumpkin puree, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Scoop 1½-tablespoon portions of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops are set and lightly golden. Let cool completely before frosting.
- To make the frosting, beat together butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, milk, and vanilla until creamy.
- Frost each cooled cookie generously and let set before serving.
Notes
- Cookies may soften after storage; re-crisp in a warm oven for a few minutes if needed.
- If dough is sticky, chill 30 minutes before scooping.
- Frosting can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Yields 18 cookies; store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Cookies
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: soft pumpkin cookies, pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting, cinnamon frosting cookies, fall cookies, pumpkin spice cookies, cozy autumn dessert