Soft Vegan Pumpkin Cookies with Sweet Maple Frosting

As the cool breeze of autumn sweeps in, I’m reminded of the warm, inviting scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. It’s a nostalgic feeling, one that takes me back to my childhood when my mother would bake pumpkin treats every fall. I still remember one particular evening, covered in flour and giggling as I formed little cookie shapes, a task that seemed monumental but was undeniably fun. Today, I want to share a recipe that brings all those memories rushing back: Vegan Pumpkin Cookies with Maple Frosting. And the best part? It’s stress-free and totally doable, even if it’s your very first attempt at baking. So, if you’re craving something sweet and cozy, you’re in the right place!

I use pumpkin in everything from soups to cookies. You can find the complete collection of vegan pumpkin recipes here.

Why I Love This Recipe of Vegan Pumpkin Cookies With Maple Frosting

This recipe holds a special place in my heart for several reasons. First and foremost, the combination of pumpkin puree and warming spices creates an incredibly comforting flavor that feels like a hug in cookie form. It’s not only the taste but also the texture: these cookies are delightfully soft and cakey, making them a perfect treat to savor with a cup of herbal tea.

For beginner cooks, this recipe is a dream come true. It’s straightforward and requires minimal fuss—perfect for those still finding their way in the kitchen. The ingredients are simple and accessible, and I promise that the end result will leave you feeling like a pro. Plus, there’s something magical about frosting those delicious cookies with a velvety maple glaze that makes the experience all the more rewarding. You will not only create a delightful treat but also wonderful memories in the process.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Vegan Pumpkin Cookies With Maple Frosting

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When making vegan pumpkin cookies with maple frosting, gathering the right ingredients is essential for a successful bake. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need:

Essentials

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: I often use gluten-free flour for a lighter, more health-conscious alternative. It provides the perfect base for these cookies.
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: A warm blend that typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice, giving your cookies that cozy, autumnal flavor.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cookies rise, ensuring they are light and fluffy.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: A pinch to elevate the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.
• 6 tablespoons vegan butter: Softened, this buttery goodness keeps the cookies moist.
• ½ cup brown sugar: It adds rich, caramel notes and depth of flavor.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: A light sweetness that balances the caramel tones from the brown sugar.
• 1 cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient! It lends moisture and provides a lovely pumpkin flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that warm, aromatic scent that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• ¼ cup vegan butter (for frosting): A soft base for your creamy maple frosting.
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Pure maple syrup gives an irresistible sweetness and flavor to the frosting.
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar: This creates the perfect frosting consistency, adding a touch of powdered sweetness.

Optional Add-Ons

For those looking to enhance their cookies, consider adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries for some texture and extra flavor.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

If you’re looking for substitutions, here are a few ideas:

• Flour: Instead of all-purpose or gluten-free flour, you can use almond flour for a nutty flavor.
• Pumpkin: If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, unsweetened applesauce can be a good alternative.
• Sweeteners: Feel free to substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar for a less processed sweetener.

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Cookies With Maple Frosting Step-by-Step

Ready to dive into the kitchen? Let’s get baking! Here’s a detailed guide on how to make these Vegan Pumpkin Cookies with Maple Frosting.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and help them bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until evenly mixed. This ensures that the spices and leavening agent are well-distributed throughout the flour, which is essential for achieving the perfect texture.

Step 3: Cream the Sugars and Butter

In a separate bowl, using either a hand mixer or a stand mixer, cream together the softened vegan butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat the mixture until it is light and fluffy—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Beat until everything is well blended and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until a dough forms. You want the dough to be cohesive yet slightly sticky; this indicates you have the right consistency.

Step 5: Scoop and Shape the Cookies

Using a tablespoon, scoop out equal amounts of cookie dough and place them on your prepared baking sheet, ensuring there are a few inches of space between each one. Don’t worry about making them perfect—each cookie will have its own unique charm! Gently press down on the tops of the cookies to flatten them slightly.

Step 6: Bake

Place the cookies in your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until they are set in the center. Be careful not to overbake them; you want them just firm enough to hold their shape. After removing them from the oven, let them rest on the cookie sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Maple Frosting

While the cookies are cooling, you can prepare the maple frosting. In a bowl, mix together the softened vegan butter, maple syrup, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. If it seems too runny, just add a little more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Frost the Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cooled, use a dollop of maple frosting on each cookie. You can either spread the frosting with a knife for a more rustic look or pipe it for a more polished finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Vegan Pumpkin Cookies With Maple Frosting

Baking can sometimes feel like a science experiment, and a few missteps can lead to uncertain results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately

One of the biggest mistakes in baking is not using precise measurements. Too much flour or not enough sugar can drastically change the texture of your cookies. Always use a kitchen scale if possible or follow the scoop-and-level method for dry ingredients.

Overmixing the Dough

While it may be tempting to get everything mixed perfectly, overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the flour is incorporated and you see no dry streaks.

Skipping the Cooling Time

Letting cookies cool on the baking sheet for a bit is crucial. It helps them set up so they don’t fall apart when you move them. Patience is key—trust me, your cookies will be worth the wait!

Baking at the Wrong Temperature

Oven temperatures can often be misleading. Make sure to preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer to ensure it is accurate. Baking at too high a temperature can lead to burnt cookies, while too low can result in ones that don’t rise properly.

Serving Suggestions for Vegan Pumpkin Cookies With Maple Frosting

These cookies are perfect for many occasions, and I have some delightful suggestions on how to serve them.

As a Cozy Afternoon Snack

Pair your cookies with a warm cup of chai or your favorite herbal tea. It’s the ultimate cozy snack! Enjoying them in a comfy chair with a soft blanket adds to the experience.

For Holiday Gatherings

These cookies also make for an excellent holiday treat. Serve them on a platter at your next gathering or bring a box as a delightful gift for friends and family. Their festive vibes and comforting flavors are sure to please.

At Breakfast with a Twist

How about serving these cookies subtly broken up over a bowl of oatmeal or yogurt? Top with slices of fresh banana and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a nourishing and delicious breakfast.

In a Dessert Spread

Include Vegan Pumpkin Cookies in a dessert spread alongside other seasonal delights like pecan pie or apple crisp. Their unique flavors will complement other autumn treats beautifully.

Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready

Once you feel comfortable with this recipe, here are some pro-level tips to elevate your baking game.

Experiment with Spices

Feel free to tweak the spices to your liking. If you love a particular spice, such as nutmeg or cloves, don’t hesitate to add an extra pinch for deeper flavor.

Try Different Frostings

While maple frosting is delicious, experimenting with different frostings or glazes can be a fun way to change things up. Think cream cheese frosting or chocolate drizzle for a different vibe.

Add Texture

For added crunch, consider folding in nuts or chocolate chips into the dough before baking. This can provide a delightful contrast to the tender cookie.

Make Them Ahead of Time

These cookies can be made ahead and frozen. Just store them in an airtight container, and you can enjoy a fresh cookie any time you want—just take them out and let them thaw for a few minutes before enjoying!

Conclusion & Next Steps

Making Vegan Pumpkin Cookies With Maple Frosting is much easier than it looks. Through simple steps, you can create a delightful treat that’s cozy, classic, and beginner-friendly. I hope you feel inspired to try your hand at this recipe, knowing the delicious results awaiting you.

Now, it’s time to gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get baking! Trust me; you won’t regret it. And when you do make these scrumptious cookies, I’d love to hear how they turned out for you. Don’t forget to share your experience and any personal twists you chose to add!

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FAQs About Vegan Pumpkin Cookies With Maple Frosting

Enjoy your baking journey with these Vegan Pumpkin Cookies With Maple Frosting!