Irresistible Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Maple Cream Cheese Icing.
Soft pumpkin cookies embody the essence of fall, with their thick, cakey texture and rich pumpkin spice flavor. Paired with a luscious maple cream cheese icing, these cookies are an indulgent treat that perfectly captures the cozy spirit of autumn. The best part? You can whip up a batch in no time, without the need for chilling the dough. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with these delightful pumpkin cookies and a step-by-step guide to making them.
Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Cookies:
1. Irresistible Texture:
Unlike traditional cookies, these pumpkin treats boast a soft, cake-like texture that melts in your mouth. They’re like little muffin tops in cookie form, making them perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.
2. Flavor Explosion:
Packed with pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and a hint of ginger, these cookies are bursting with warm, comforting flavors. The combination of brown sugar and pumpkin puree adds depth and richness, elevating these cookies to a whole new level of deliciousness.
3. Easy and Convenient:
With no chilling required, these cookies come together quickly and effortlessly. Whether you’re baking with kids or simply craving a sweet treat, you’ll appreciate the simplicity of this recipe.
Best Baking Tip: Blot the Pumpkin
To ensure the perfect texture and flavor, it’s essential to blot the pumpkin puree before incorporating it into the dough. This removes excess moisture, resulting in denser, more flavorful cookies. Simply place the pumpkin puree on a paper towel-lined bowl to absorb the moisture. You’ll be left with concentrated pumpkin goodness that takes these cookies to the next level.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Soft Pumpkin Cookies:
Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Blot the Pumpkin Cookies:
Use paper towels to blot the pumpkin puree and remove excess moisture. Aim for about 1 and 1/3 cups of blotted pumpkin for the perfect consistency.
Whisk Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and ground ginger. This ensures even distribution of the spices throughout the dough.
Cream Butter and Sugars:
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add Wet Ingredients:
Beat in the egg, followed by a splash of maple syrup (or milk or orange juice) and vanilla extract. Then, gradually mix in the blotted pumpkin until well combined.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a thick, sticky dough forms.
Scoop and Bake:
Use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart. Bake for 14-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are soft.
Cool and Ice (Optional):
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, top with maple cream cheese icing for an extra-special touch.
Maple Cream Cheese Icing:
While these pumpkin cookies are delicious on their own, a dollop of maple cream cheese icing takes them to the next level. Here’s how to make it:
Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Add Sweetness:
Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon, beating until smooth and creamy.
Ice the Cookies:
Once the cookies have cooled, dip the tops into the icing or spread it onto each cookie with a knife. Explore my site to learn more about cookies
Conclusion:
With their irresistible flavor and soft, cakey texture, these pumpkin cookies are sure to become a fall favorite. Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with maple cream cheese icing, each bite is a delicious taste of autumn. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate fall treat. Happy baking!