If you are looking for a cozy and irresistible treat to brighten your day, look no further than this Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These cookies combine the comforting flavors of autumn spices, tender pumpkin, and hearty oats, all topped with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting that takes them to the next level. Every bite is perfectly soft with a slight chewiness from the oats and bursts with warm, spicy notes that are simply irresistible. Whether you want to bake for a crowd or just indulge yourself, this recipe promises a delightful experience that’s both satisfying and nostalgic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Each component plays a special role — from the creamy butter and rich pumpkin puree, to the fragrant spices and chewy oats — ensuring every mouthful is packed with warmth and comfort.
- ½ cup softened butter: Creates a tender and rich base for the cookie dough.
- ¾ cup white sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cookie’s texture.
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar: Provides a deep molasses flavor and chewiness.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Infuses the cookies with moisture and beautiful fall color.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors in the cookie dough.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Gives the cookies their sturdy yet soft framework.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Reacts with the acids for tenderness and spread.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Brings warm spice notes that are essential to this recipe.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle earthiness that deepens the flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves: Gives a sharp, aromatic touch.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: The signature spice blend that ties the pumpkin and spices together.
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats: Adds hearty texture and a touch of rustic charm.
- ½ cup softened cream cheese: The star ingredient for the creamy frosting.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a smooth and rich frosting base.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Gives the frosting that irresistible seasonal flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Balances and lifts the frosting’s sweetness.
How to Make Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure the cookies bake evenly and release easily, which is a tiny step that makes a huge difference in your baking success.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This creaming step is essential because it incorporates air, contributing to the tenderness and perfect texture of the cookies.
Step 3: Add Pumpkin, Egg, and Vanilla
Next, mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. The pumpkin adds moistness and that unmistakable autumnal flavor, while the egg binds everything together beautifully to set the stage for your cookie dough.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, pumpkin pie spice, and oats. Taking the time to properly blend these dry ingredients means the spices will be evenly distributed, which ensures every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 5: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring carefully until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough cookies, so a gentle hand will result in the soft, chewy texture that makes these cookies so special.
Step 6: Form and Bake the Cookies
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, then gently flatten each cookie slightly so they bake evenly. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges have turned a light golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
While your cookies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, beating until the frosting is light, fluffy, and perfectly spiced. This frosting is the crowning glory that makes this recipe unforgettable.
Step 8: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies have fully cooled, spread or pipe the cinnamon cream cheese frosting onto each one. This final touch adds richness and a delicate sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spiced pumpkin oatmeal base.
How to Serve Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra layer of charm and texture, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the frosting. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also enhance the warm flavors and make for a stunning presentation that’s inviting and festive.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of chai tea, mellow pumpkin spice latte, or even a simple glass of cold milk. Serving alongside fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears can balance the sweetness and add refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider stacking a few cookies to create mini cookie towers tied with rustic twine for gifting or parties. Alternatively, sandwich frosting between two cookies and chill for a delicious cookie sandwich that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Refrigeration keeps the frosting fresh and prevents it from becoming too soft or runny, ensuring every bite stays flavorful and moist.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to three months. For best results, freeze the frosting separately and frost the cookies after thawing.
Reheating
If you want a warm cookie experience, gently reheat frosted cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This brings back the soft texture and slightly melts the frosting, making each bite delightfully gooey without melting it completely.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can, but make sure to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin first to achieve the right consistency and moisture level. Canned pumpkin puree is often more convenient and provides consistent results.
Is it okay to substitute quick oats for old-fashioned oats in this recipe?
Quick oats can be used, but they will change the texture slightly, making the cookies softer and less chewy. Old-fashioned oats offer the perfect chewiness that complements the soft pumpkin dough wonderfully.
How long do these cookies stay fresh at room temperature?
Since these cookies have cream cheese frosting, it’s best to keep them refrigerated. At room temperature, they may only stay fresh for up to one day before the frosting could spoil or soften excessively.
Can I make the cookies vegan or dairy-free?
With some ingredient swaps like vegan butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and egg replacers, you can adapt this recipe. However, you might need to experiment a bit to get the same texture and flavor, as pumpkin oatmeal cookies rely on those key dairy ingredients.
What’s the best way to pipe the frosting on these cookies?
Use a piping bag fitted with a wide round tip or star tip for decorative swirls. This method gives a pretty, professional look and allows for even frosting coverage without being too thick.
Final Thoughts
If you want a cookie that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a must-try. It’s straightforward to make, incredibly tasty, and perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring as a special treat. I truly hope you enjoy baking and eating this fall-inspired delight as much as I do!
Print
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Total Time: 32 mins
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting are a perfect fall treat, combining moist pumpkin-flavored cookies with the hearty texture of oats and a rich, spiced cream cheese frosting. With warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, these cookies offer a cozy, comforting flavor ideal for seasonal gatherings or a sweet everyday snack.
Ingredients
Cookie Ingredients
- ½ cup softened butter
- ¾ cup white sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
Frosting Ingredients
- ½ cup softened cream cheese
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring an even texture in the cookies.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the canned pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract into the creamed sugar and butter mixture until fully combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, pumpkin pie spice, and old-fashioned oats to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents.
- Mix Wet and Dry: Gradually blend the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Shape Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them adequately, and flatten each slightly for even baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Remove and allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is creamy and well combined.
- Frost Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread or pipe the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly over the tops of the cookies.
Notes
- Make sure the cookies cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- For firmer frosting, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before spreading.
- You can substitute pumpkin pie spice with a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves if unavailable.
- Store frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Room temperature ingredients help achieve the best texture in cookies and frosting.
