Pumpkin Cookies with Icing: The Ultimate Fall Treat Recipe

Pumpkin Cookies with Icing are a delightful treat that perfectly encapsulates the essence of fall. As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, these cookies bring warmth and comfort to any gathering. Originating from traditional autumn recipes, pumpkin cookies have become a beloved staple in many households, often enjoyed during festive occasions like Halloween and Thanksgiving. The combination of soft, spiced pumpkin and a sweet, creamy icing creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent.

What I love most about pumpkin cookies with icing is their incredible texture; they are soft and chewy, making each bite a delightful experience. The subtle sweetness of the pumpkin pairs beautifully with the rich icing, creating a perfect balance that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, which means you can whip up a batch in no time to share with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to impress!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Continue to mix on medium speed until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. This will ensure that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
5. If you’re using nuts, fold them into the dough at this point using a spatula or wooden spoon.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to handle.

Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
2. Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The cookies will spread a little, so give them some room.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a bit soft when you take them out.
4. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Preparing the Icing

1. In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. If the icing is too thick, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
2. If you want to add color to your icing, this is the time to do it! Add a few drops of food coloring and mix until you achieve the desired shade.
3. Once the cookies are completely cooled, it’s time to ice them. You can use a piping bag for more control or simply drizzle the icing over the cookies using a spoon. Get creative with your designs!

Assembling and Serving

1. After icing the cookies, let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the icing to set. This will help prevent smudging when you stack or serve them.
2. Once the icing has set, you can arrange the cookies on a platter or store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
3. These pumpkin cookies

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these pumpkin cookies with icing are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delightful fall treat. The combination of warm spices and the creamy icing creates a perfect balance that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they also fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of autumn, making them perfect for cozy gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing these cookies with a warm beverage like spiced chai or a classic pumpkin spice latte to enhance the seasonal flavors. You can also experiment with variations by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the icing for an extra flavor kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the icing for a cream cheese frosting for a richer taste that complements the pumpkin beautifully. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Once you’ve baked your batch of pumpkin cookies with icing, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a picture of your delicious creations! Let’s spread the joy of baking together and make this fall season even sweeter. Happy baking!

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