The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to autumnal bliss. There’s something magical about the cozy, warm spices and the sweetness of pumpkin that wraps you in a hug as you revel in the joy of fall baking. These Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are not just a delectable treat; they embody everything we cherish about this season. With their soft, tender texture and a frosting that practically melts in your mouth, this easy recipe is perfect for busy bakers looking for a delightful crowd-pleaser. Plus, being vegan and easily adaptable for gluten-free needs means everyone can indulge guilt-free. Are you ready to elevate your baking game with a cookie recipe that will have your loved ones coming back for seconds?
Why Bake Soft Spiced Vegan Cookies?
Irresistible Flavor: These cookies are bursting with cozy spices, offering a warm hug in every bite.
Easy Preparation: With minimal steps and quick baking, you’ll have these ready in no time.
Vegan Delight: Inclusive for everyone, this recipe ensures no one misses out on deliciousness!
Versatile Treat: Customize with toppings, or pair them with drinks like a Pumpkin Spice Latte for a complete fall experience.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, they are sure to impress friends and family alike.
Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake some deliciousness!
For the Cookies
- Vegan Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with neutral coconut oil if desired.
- Pumpkin Purée – Adds moisture and pumpkin flavor; ensure it isn’t too watery.
- Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and depth; coconut sugar can also work well.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and aids in cookie texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile of these delicious cookies.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; use a gluten-free blend with xanthan gum for a gluten-free option.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure they rise perfectly.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Delivers that beloved seasonal flavor; a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
- Cornstarch – Helps maintain the softness of the cookies.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness for a more rounded flavor.
For the Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – Used for making the smooth, creamy frosting that complements the cookies.
- Cinnamon – Adds that extra warmth and flavor to the frosting, enhancing the overall experience.
These Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies are sure to delight with their incredible flavors and made-from-scratch goodness! 🍂✨
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a stand mixer, combine 1 cup of softened vegan butter, 1 cup of pumpkin purée, 1 cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well-combined, creating a creamy base for your Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture will provide the structure and essential flavors, ensuring your cookies have a warm, spiced touch synonymous with the fall season.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture in the stand mixer, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft and slightly sticky dough for your Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well integrated.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough is crucial for creating that perfect texture, preventing excessive spreading while baking, and helping the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Preheat and Shape
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during the last few minutes of chilling. Once ready, portion the chilled dough into 2-inch balls. Lightly flatten each ball and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough space between each cookie for even baking.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. Watch for the edges to set while the centers remain soft and slightly puffed. They should have a light golden color, which indicates they are perfectly baked while maintaining their soft texture.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
In a medium-sized bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened vegan butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and 2 cups of powdered sugar. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating a delightful cinnamon frosting that will elevate your Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies.
Step 8: Frost the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, use a piping bag or a spatula to swirl the creamy cinnamon frosting onto each cookie. For an extra touch of flavor, you can dust them with additional pumpkin pie spice, enhancing their fall-inspired essence.
Expert Tips for Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies
Chill the Dough: Keep the cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading during baking.
Use Quality Pumpkin Purée: Opt for a thick, creamy pumpkin purée to achieve the best flavor and texture in your Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies.
Monitor Baking Time: Bake just until the edges are set; soft centers are key for that chewy bite. Overbaking will lead to dry cookies.
Storage Matters: Store frosted cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days; refrigerate for longer freshness.
Future Baking: Freeze unbaked cookie dough for up to 2 months; simply bake from frozen and add an extra minute to the baking time.
How to Store and Freeze Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies
Room Temperature: Store frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you want them to last longer, refrigerate frosted cookies for up to a week, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezer: For unbaked dough, freeze it in portions for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, cook directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the baking time.
Reheating: If refrigerated, allow cookies to come to room temperature, or warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds for a delightful soft bite!
Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delightful tweaks!
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Nutty Texture: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a delightful crunch that complements the soft cookie perfectly. Each bite will bring a wonderful contrast of flavors and textures, making them even more irresistible.
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Flavored Frosting: Try a maple frosting instead of cinnamon for a sweet twist. The rich maple flavor pairs beautifully with pumpkin, creating an indulgent autumn treat that everyone will love.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your cookies by adding a rich chocolate drizzle on top. Just melt some dairy-free chocolate and swirl it over the frosted cookies for an elegant finish.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for those needing to avoid gluten. Just be sure to include xanthan gum to ensure the cookies hold together beautifully, giving everyone a chance to enjoy these delights.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or jalapeño powder to the dough for a surprising and delightful heat that dances on your taste buds. It’s an unexpected twist that will impress adventurous eaters.
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Coconut Flakes: Fold in some sweetened coconut flakes for a tropical touch. The addition of coconut adds sweetness and a wonderful chewiness, balancing the spices beautifully.
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Raisins or Cranberries: Toss in dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity burst. This little addition brings a pleasant chewiness and a pop of flavor that enhances the overall experience of each cookie.
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Serve with Drinks: Pair these cookies alongside a warm Pumpkin Spice Latte or a comforting cup of spiced tea for an unforgettable fall afternoon. They’ll make your cozy moments even sweeter, creating memories that linger long after the last cookie is gone.
Explore these variations or mix and match to find your perfect combination. Happy baking!
What to Serve with Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies
These delightful cookies are perfect for elevating your fall gatherings into something truly special.
- Hot Apple Cider: The warmth and spices in the cider complement the cookie flavors while offering a comforting drink to sip alongside your treat.
- Coconut Milk Lattes: Creamy and rich, these lattes provide a delightful contrast to the soft texture of the cookies and enhance the cozy experience.
- Spiced Tea: Chai or herbal tea infused with spices balance the sweetness of the cookies, making for a delicious pairing that warms the soul.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing mix of seasonal fruits counteracts the richness of the cookies and adds a pop of color to your treat table.
- Pumpkin Soup: Serve a warm, creamy pumpkin soup as an appetizer to echo the pumpkin flavor, creating a delightful fall-themed meal.
- Maple Glazed Pecans: The crunchy sweetness adds a delightful textural contrast and a nutty flavor that complements the spices in your cookies.
- Chocolate Almond Milk: A cool and creamy drink with subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spiced cookies for a satisfying treat.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a luscious, creamy element, providing a contrasting temperature to the warm cookies.
- Spiced Whipped Cream: Top your cookies with a dollop of whipped cream infused with spices for an extra indulgent and festive fall dessert.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld while keeping the dough fresh. Additionally, the frosted cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week, ensuring they stay just as delicious. When you’re ready to indulge, simply pipe the frosting on the cooled cookies, and enjoy your warm, cozy fall treat without any last-minute fuss!
Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin purée should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, use thick and creamy pumpkin purée, which ensures your cookies maintain the right moisture level and richness. Avoid watery purées, as they can affect the texture of your cookies.
How do I store my cookies, and for how long do they last?
You can keep your frosted cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week; just be sure to place parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze the cookie dough? How do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked cookie dough for up to 2 months. To freeze, scoop the dough into 2-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer the balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven, place the frozen dough on a baking sheet, and add an extra minute to the baking time.
What if my cookies turn out too crumbly?
If your cookies are crumbly, it may be due to overmixing the dough or not enough moisture in your pumpkin purée. Ensure you’re mixing just until combined! You may also add a teaspoon of non-dairy milk to help with the moisture or consider using a bit more purée for the next batch.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
While the Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies are safe for humans, dogs should not have cookies containing sugar, and some spices, such as cinnamon, can be harmful in large quantities. Always check with your vet before sharing homemade treats with your furry friends!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Very! To make your Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This will provide the necessary structure while keeping the delicious flavor and soft texture intact.
Soft Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Cookies for Cozy Fall Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer, combine 1 cup of softened vegan butter, 1 cup of pumpkin purée, 1 cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for 3-5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture in the stand mixer, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Portion the chilled dough into 2-inch balls and flatten slightly.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set.
- In a medium bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened vegan butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 2 cups of powdered sugar.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting with the cinnamon mixture.
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