Name: Iced Pumpkin Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 36
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Cookies:; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ¾ tsp Baking Soda; ½ tsp salt; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp ground nutmeg; ¼ tsp ground ginger; ¼ tsp ground cloves; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup light brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup pumpkin puree; For Icing:; 2 cups powdered sugar; 4 tbsp half and half; 1 tbsp salted butter; ½ tsp vanilla extract

Embrace the flavors of fall with these delightful iced pumpkin cookies. Perfectly spiced and topped with a sweet glaze, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Photos of Iced Pumpkin Cookies Recipe

Most of the ingredients for these iced pumpkin cookies are pantry staples, but you might need to pick up pumpkin puree if you don't have any on hand. Be sure to grab ground cloves as well, since it's not always a common household spice.

Ingredients for Iced Pumpkin Cookies

all-purpose flour: The base of the cookies, providing structure and texture.

baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and become puffy.

baking soda: Assists in the leavening process for a soft texture.

salt: Enhances the flavors of other ingredients.

ground cinnamon: Adds warm, sweet spice to the cookies.

ground nutmeg: Lends a subtle, nutty flavor to the spice mix.

ground ginger: Brings a hint of heat and complexity.

ground cloves: Adds intense, aromatic flavor.

unsalted butter: Gives richness and a tender texture to the cookies.

granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps with the texture.

light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.

egg: Binds the ingredients together and provides structure.

vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.

pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, flavor, and a lovely orange hue.

powdered sugar: The base of the icing, providing sweetness and texture.

half and half: Thins the icing to a spreadable consistency.

salted butter: Adds richness and helps the icing set.

vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the icing.

One reader, Emilee Frederick says:

These iced pumpkin cookies are absolutely delightful! The perfect blend of spices and the sweet, creamy icing make them irresistible. They are soft, flavorful, and a hit at every gathering. Highly recommend for a cozy fall treat!

Emilee Frederick

Techniques Required for Making Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Yes.

How to cream butter and sugar: Creaming involves beating the butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps to create a light texture in the cookies.

How to mix dry ingredients: Whisking together the dry ingredients ensures that the baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This helps to ensure even baking and consistent flavor in the cookies.

How to blend wet and dry ingredients: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, it's important to mix until just combined. Over-mixing can result in tough cookies.

How to scoop cookie dough: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough ensures that the cookies are uniform in size, which helps them bake evenly.

How to make icing: Whisking together powdered sugar, half and half, butter, and vanilla creates a smooth icing. Adjusting the consistency with more half and half if needed ensures the icing is spreadable but not too runny.

How to ice cookies: Spreading the icing over the cooled cookies and adding sprinkles before the icing sets ensures that the decorations adhere properly.

How To Make Iced Pumpkin Cookies

You’ll always be excited for Fall season with our yummy, spiced, vanilla Iced Pumpkin Cookies Recipe! These dessert treats are moist and addicting to eat!

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 1 hour 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cookies:

2 ½cupsall-purpose flour
1tspbaking powder
¾tspbaking soda
½tspsalt
2tspground cinnamon
½tspground nutmeg
¼tspground ginger
¼tspground cloves
½cupunsalted buttersoftened
1cupgranulated sugar
½cuplight brown sugarpacked
1largeegg
1tspvanilla extract
1cuppumpkin pureecanned

For Icing:

2cupspowdered sugar
4tbsphalf and halfor milk, divided
1tbspsalted buttermelted
½tspvanilla extract

Instructions

Cookies:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for 20 seconds, then set aside.
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
Mix in egg and vanilla, then blend in pumpkin. With mixer set on low speed, slowly add in flour mixture and mix until just combined.
Scoop dough out about 1 1/2 tablespoon at a time and drop onto a baking sheet lined with a silicone liner or parchment paper. Space the cookies 2-inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until cookies are puffy and set.
Let cool on the baking sheet for several minutes and then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Icing:

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of half and half, butter, and vanilla until well blended. Thin with more half and half if needed.
Spoon and spread icing over the cooled cookies. Immediately add sprinkles after spreading the glaze over each cookie before the icing starts to set.
Let rest at room temperature to allow icing to set.
Once set, serve Iced Pumpkin Cookies and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Use a small cookie scoop to scoop and spread icing over the cookies. If not available, simply use two spoons: one to scoop and one to scrape it from the other spoon. If the icing is too sticky, chill the cookies for 30 minutes if needed. You can also lightly dust the cookies with cinnamon, or mix 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon into the icing.

Nutrition

Calories: 2726.51kcal
Fat: 187.16g
Saturated Fat: 117.88g
Trans Fat: 7.46g
Monounsaturated Fat: 48.13g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.57g
Carbohydrates: 255.04g
Fiber: 5.07g
Sugar: 154.25g
Protein: 15.74g
Cholesterol: 494.68mg
Sodium: 1349.49mg
Calcium: 228.80mg
Potassium: 459.42mg
Iron: 7.71mg
Vitamin A: 1612.50µg
Vitamin C: 0.39mg

Helpful Technique Tips for Iced Pumpkin Cookies

When creaming together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar, ensure the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender and airy texture in the cookies. Use room temperature butter for optimal results, and beat the mixture for about 3-4 minutes on medium speed.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure all ingredients ahead of time and place them in separate bowls to streamline the baking process.

Use canned pumpkin: Opt for canned pumpkin puree instead of making your own to save time.

Room temperature butter: Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.

Silicone baking mats: Use silicone baking mats or parchment paper for quick cleanup.

Electric mixer: Utilize an electric stand mixer to speed up the creaming process.

Batch baking: Bake multiple cookies at once by using multiple baking sheets.

Quick cooling: Transfer cookies to a wire rack immediately to cool faster.

Pre-made icing: Consider using pre-made icing to save time on preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Iced Pumpkin Cookies Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the cookies denser.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use 1/4 tsp baking soda and 1/2 tsp cream of tartar for each tsp of baking powder needed.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 times the amount of baking powder, but this may alter the taste slightly.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Use the same amount, but kosher salt has larger grains, so it may need to be adjusted to taste.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice contains cinnamon along with other spices, adding a more complex flavor.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with mace: Mace has a similar flavor profile to nutmeg and can be used in equal amounts.
ground ginger - Substitute with fresh ginger: Use 1 tbsp of freshly grated ginger for every 1/4 tsp of ground ginger.
ground cloves - Substitute with allspice: Allspice has a similar warm flavor and can be used in equal amounts.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, though it may add a slight coconut flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.
light brown sugar - Substitute with dark brown sugar: Dark brown sugar has more molasses, adding a deeper flavor.
large egg - Substitute with flax egg: Mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water to replace one egg, making it vegan-friendly.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor.
pumpkin puree - Substitute with sweet potato puree: Sweet potato puree has a similar texture and sweetness.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar blended into a powder: Blend granulated sugar until it reaches a powdered consistency.
half and half - Substitute with milk and butter: Mix 3 tbsp milk with 1 tbsp melted butter to replace 4 tbsp of half and half.
salted butter - Substitute with unsalted butter and a pinch of salt: Use the same amount of unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt to taste.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a different but complementary sweetness and flavor.

Presenting Iced Pumpkin Cookies in Style

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the iced pumpkin cookies in a refined manner by making them slightly smaller, around 1 tablespoon of dough each, to create bite-sized delights that are perfect for a sophisticated tasting experience.
Use elegant plating: Arrange the cookies on a sleek, white porcelain platter. Space them evenly and garnish the platter with a light dusting of ground cinnamon for a touch of elegance and aroma.
Add a touch of gold: Use edible gold leaf to add a luxurious touch to each cookie. Place a small piece of gold leaf on top of the icing before it sets to give the cookies a high-end, glamorous look.
Incorporate seasonal elements: Decorate the platter with small, edible pumpkin seeds and a few fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to evoke the essence of autumn and enhance the visual appeal.
Serve with a complementary beverage: Pair the iced pumpkin cookies with a small glass of spiced chai latte or pumpkin spice coffee. Serve the beverage in elegant, clear glassware to complement the cookies and create a cohesive, seasonal presentation.
Use a decorative drizzle: Enhance the visual appeal by drizzling a thin line of caramel sauce or maple syrup over the cookies in a delicate, artistic pattern. This adds both flavor and a touch of sophistication.
Highlight texture contrast: Place a small dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone next to each cookie on the plate. This not only adds a creamy texture contrast but also elevates the overall presentation.
Incorporate height: Stack a few cookies in a pyramid shape on the platter to add height and dimension to the presentation. This creates a visually interesting and dynamic display.
Use a themed garnish: Add a small, edible sugar pumpkin or a cinnamon stick as a garnish on the side of the platter. This reinforces the pumpkin theme and adds a charming, seasonal touch.
Finish with a flourish: Lightly dust the entire platter with a mix of powdered sugar and cinnamon using a fine sieve. This final touch adds a delicate, snowy effect that enhances the overall presentation and ties all the elements together.

Essential Tools for Making Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Oven: Used to bake the cookies at a precise temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Medium-sized mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
Electric stand mixer: Fitted with the paddle attachment, this is used to cream together the butter and sugars, and to blend in the egg, vanilla, and pumpkin puree.
Paddle attachment: An attachment for the stand mixer that is ideal for creaming butter and sugar together.
Silicone liner: Placed on the baking sheet to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking.
Parchment paper: An alternative to the silicone liner, used to line the baking sheet.
Baking sheet: Used to hold the cookie dough while baking in the oven.
Wire rack: Used to cool the cookies completely after they have been baked.
Medium mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the powdered sugar, half and half, butter, and vanilla for the icing.
Whisk: Used to blend the icing ingredients together until smooth.
Spoon: Used to spread the icing over the cooled cookies.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the dry and wet ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out smaller quantities of ingredients like baking powder, baking soda, and spices.
Spatula: Used to scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Cookie scoop: Used to portion out the cookie dough evenly onto the baking sheet.

Storing and Freezing Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Allow the iced pumpkin cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will prevent the icing from smudging and the cookies from becoming soggy.
Place a layer of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer of cookies to prevent them from sticking together. This will also help maintain their shape and prevent the icing from getting damaged.
Store the iced pumpkin cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent the icing from melting.
If you want to freeze the iced pumpkin cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating each layer with parchment paper or wax paper.
When freezing iced pumpkin cookies, make sure to remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
Frozen iced pumpkin cookies can be stored for up to 3 months. To thaw, remove the desired number of cookies from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
If the icing appears slightly wet or sticky after thawing, you can place the cookies in a single layer on a wire rack and let them air dry for a few minutes before serving.

Interesting Facts About Iced Pumpkin Cookies

A fun fact about this iced pumpkin cookies recipe is that the combination of pumpkin puree and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves not only gives the cookies a rich, autumnal flavor but also makes them incredibly moist and soft.

Is Making Iced Pumpkin Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

This iced pumpkin cookies recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like pumpkin puree, flour, and spices are affordable and often already in the pantry. The total cost for a batch, serving a household of 4, is approximately $10-$12 USD. Considering the delightful taste and the number of cookies produced, the overall verdict is a solid 8 out of 10.

Are Iced Pumpkin Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

The iced pumpkin cookies recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar, with a total of 1 1/2 cups of granulated and brown sugar combined. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to various health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
The use of all-purpose flour, which is refined and stripped of its natural nutrients, offers little in terms of nutritional value.
The icing, made with powdered sugar and half-and-half, adds an additional layer of sugar and fat to the already indulgent cookies.

However, the recipe does incorporate some healthier ingredients, such as pumpkin puree, which is rich in vitamins A and C, and a mix of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, which offer potential anti-inflammatory benefits.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar in the cookie dough by 1/4 to 1/2 cup, as the pumpkin puree and spices will naturally lend sweetness and flavor to the cookies.
Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or almond flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Opt for a healthier icing alternative, such as a drizzle of melted dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), which is rich in antioxidants, or a light glaze made with Greek yogurt and maple syrup.
Incorporate additional nutrient-dense ingredients, such as chopped nuts or seeds, to provide healthy fats, protein, and texture to the cookies.

Editor's Opinion on Iced Pumpkin Cookies

This iced pumpkin cookie recipe is a delightful autumn treat, combining warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves with the rich flavor of pumpkin. The cookies are soft and puffy, offering a comforting texture. The icing adds a sweet, creamy finish that complements the spiced cookie base perfectly. The use of both granulated and brown sugar enhances the depth of flavor. Overall, this recipe is well-balanced and sure to be a hit at any fall gathering.

Enhance Your Iced Pumpkin Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Maple-Glazed Roasted Vegetables: Imagine a medley of root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, all roasted to perfection and drizzled with a luscious maple glaze. The sweetness of the maple syrup complements the spiced notes of the iced pumpkin cookies beautifully.

Cranberry-Orange Relish: A tangy and refreshing cranberry-orange relish can add a burst of flavor to your dessert table. The tartness of cranberries combined with the citrusy zing of oranges creates a delightful contrast to the sweet and spiced cookies.

Spiced Apple Cider: Warm up with a mug of spiced apple cider. Infused with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, this cozy beverage pairs perfectly with the autumnal flavors of the iced pumpkin cookies. It's like a hug in a cup!

Pecan and Goat Cheese Salad: A crisp salad featuring mixed greens, candied pecans, and creamy goat cheese. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, this salad offers a refreshing and slightly tangy counterpoint to the rich, spiced cookies.

Butternut Squash Soup: A velvety butternut squash soup with hints of sage and nutmeg can be a comforting addition to your meal. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the soup harmonize well with the spiced pumpkin cookies.

Alternative Recipes to Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Imagine the aroma of pumpkin and spices wafting through your kitchen as you bake these moist and fluffy muffins. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or a delightful snack, these muffins are a fall favorite.

Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones: These scones are a delightful blend of pumpkin and maple flavors. With a tender crumb and a sweet glaze, they make for an irresistible treat with your morning coffee or afternoon tea.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: Indulge in the creamy, rich goodness of pumpkin cheesecake layered over a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are a perfect dessert for any fall gathering or holiday celebration.

Pumpkin Bread: This classic pumpkin bread is moist, flavorful, and spiced just right. It's a versatile treat that can be enjoyed plain, with a smear of butter, or even toasted for a warm, comforting snack.

Pumpkin Pie: No fall season is complete without a slice of pumpkin pie. With its smooth, creamy filling and perfectly spiced flavor, this pie is a must-have for any Thanksgiving table.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Pair with Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The breadcrumbs on top add a delightful crunch, while the Parmesan cheese melts to golden perfection. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Crisp toasted baguette slices are topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt bring out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. This simple yet elegant appetizer is a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with a glass of wine.

Main Courses:

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce, seasoned with garlic and onions. The bell peppers are then baked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Top with melted cheese for an extra layer of indulgence. This dish not only looks stunning but also offers a hearty and satisfying meal.

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in the creamy goodness of Chicken Alfredo. Tender chicken breasts are cooked to perfection and then smothered in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. The sauce is made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, creating a luscious and velvety texture. Serve over a bed of fettuccine pasta and garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color. This classic Italian dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

Why trust this Iced Pumpkin Cookies Recipe:

This recipe for iced pumpkin cookies is a must-try because it combines the perfect blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves with the rich flavor of pumpkin puree. The buttercream icing adds a delightful sweetness that complements the cookies perfectly. Each step is carefully crafted to ensure you achieve the best texture and taste. Trust this recipe for a delightful autumn treat that will impress your family and friends.

Have you tried this iced pumpkin cookies recipe? Let us know how it turned out or share your own twist on this fall treat in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth. You'll need the same amount, 1 cup, for the recipe.

How should I store the iced pumpkin cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookies before icing them. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to eat, thaw them and add the icing.

Can I substitute the half and half in the icing?

Yes, you can use milk or heavy cream instead of half and half. Just adjust the amount to get the right consistency for the icing.

What can I use if I don't have a stand mixer?

No worries! You can use a hand mixer or even mix by hand. Just make sure to cream the butter and sugars well to get a smooth, fluffy texture.