When the crispness of autumn fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. That’s how my journey with these Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies began—a quest to capture the essence of fall in a bite-sized treat. Picture sinking your teeth into a soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie, delicately spiced and topped with a rich vanilla butter icing that brings everything together.

Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving gathering or simply craving a taste of the season, these cookies are a delightful solution for both dessert lovers and busy bakers alike. You can whip them up quickly, adjust with or without frosting, and even toss in some extras like nuts or raisins for a personal touch. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this vintage-inspired recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your autumn baking repertoire!

Why are Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies so special?

Soft texture: These cookies are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, boasting a light and airy finish.
Easy-to-make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress!
Customizable toppings: Enjoy them as is or elevate with rich frosting for added decadence.
Seasonal delight: Infused with warm spices, they perfectly capture fall’s essence.
Perfect for gatherings: Whether for Halloween or Thanksgiving, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser that’ll invite compliments.

Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bake these delightful treats!

For the Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; you can use a gluten-free substitute for a GF option.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leavening agents that help cookies rise; make sure they’re fresh for the best results.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds warm, aromatic flavor; feel free to substitute with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if desired.
Salt – Enhances flavor; always a good idea to include in baked goods.
Butter – Ensures rich flavor and tenderness; you can swap for vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetness and helps crisp the edges; brown sugar can be mixed in for extra moisture and flavor.
Pure Pumpkin – Contributes moisture and subtle pumpkin flavor; avoid pumpkin pie filling and opt for canned pumpkin for convenience.
Egg – Binds ingredients together; for an egg-free option, use a flax egg or applesauce.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; pure vanilla is preferred over imitation for the best taste.

For the Frosting

Butter – Creates a rich and creamy base; using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness.
Milk – Helps achieve the desired consistency; whole milk yields a richer frosting.
Brown Sugar – Adds depth and caramel notes; it can be swapped for white sugar if needed.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor; using pure vanilla will provide the best result.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust the amount for your preferred consistency.

With these Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies ingredients on hand, you’re just one step away from creating a seasonal treat that will charm everyone around your table!

How to Make Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies will bake evenly and perfectly. While your oven heats up, line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Whisk them together until well mixed—this will help distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the cookie dough.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add in pure pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is just combined and smooth.
Combine the Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will help keep your cookies soft and tender.
Shape the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop mounds of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for spreading while they bake.
Bake to Perfection: Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 17-20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn lightly brown. The centers should still be soft—allow them to cool on a wire rack.
Make the Frosting: For the frosting, combine butter and milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and vanilla before bringing to a gentle boil. Allow to cool slightly, then mix in powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Optional: Drizzle some caramel sauce on top for an extra touch of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies Variations

Embrace your creativity and make these cookies truly your own with delightful twists and swaps!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to enjoy the same delicious texture without the gluten.
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch and rich flavor contrast.
Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with vegan butter and use almond or oat milk for a creamy frosting, keeping everyone satisfied.
Apple Cider Frosting: Replace the vanilla frosting with apple cider-flavored icing for an extra fall flavor that will impress your guests with its unique twist.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the dough for a surprising kick that will make your cookies stand out at the dessert table.
Choco-Pumpkin Delight: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks for a chocolatey flavor that beautifully complements the pumpkin spice base.
Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of one orange to the cookie dough for a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens up this classic recipe.
Raisin Twist: Mix in golden raisins for a hint of sweetness and chewy texture, complementing the warm spices of these cookies.

With these variations, you can explore personal preferences and dietary needs, making each batch a flavorful adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing the flavors to deepen without compromise. Alternatively, bake the cookies in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you choose this route, frost the cookies just before serving to maintain their texture and sweetness—the rich vanilla butter icing tastes best fresh! When it’s time to serve, simply let the cookies come to room temperature, and you’ll have a delightful treat available with minimal effort during your busy fall gatherings.

How to Store and Freeze Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cookies in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for up to 5 days; they’ll stay deliciously soft.

Fridge: If you’ve already frosted your cookies, keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their soft texture.

Freezer: To freeze, place unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat cookies in the microwave in 10-second intervals or enjoy them straight from the freezer for an irresistible frozen treat!

Expert Tips for Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing and the best outcome in your Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when combining the dry and wet ingredients—overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired soft texture.
Fresh Leavening Agents: Check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Stale leavening agents can result in flat cookies that don’t rise properly.
Adjust Frosting Consistency: For your frosting, adjust the amount of powdered sugar based on your preferred thickness—thicker frosting holds shape better for decorations!
Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Frosted cookies should be consumed soon, but unfrosted ones can last a few extra days.
Customize with Extras: Feel free to include nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins for added texture and flavor, making your Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies uniquely yours!

What to Serve with Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies?

Elevate your cookie experience with delightful pairings that enhance the warm, spiced flavors of these seasonal treats.

Warm Apple Cider: The spiced notes of apple cider complement the pumpkin cookies beautifully, creating a cozy fall vibe. Imagine sipping cider while enjoying cookies on a crisp autumn evening.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, rich vanilla ice cream brings a cold contrast to the warm cookies. Each bite becomes a delightful marriage of textures that is simply irresistible.
Coffee or Latte: A hot cup of coffee or a spiced latte enhances the flavors of your cookies. The gentle bitterness beautifully balances the sweetness of both the cookies and the icing.
Pumpkin Soup: Pair these cookies with a velvety pumpkin soup for a rustic fall meal. This combination not only captures the essence of pumpkin but also warms the soul.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices of chai tea mirror the pumpkin pie spice in the cookies, creating a harmonious flavor journey with each sip and bite.
Pecans or Walnuts: Adding chopped nuts enhances both flavor and texture. The crunch contrasts delightfully with the soft cookies, making every bite unique.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For an indulgent upgrade, serve with a side of cream cheese frosting, which pairs beautifully with pumpkin. A luscious dollop can take your cookie experience to the next level.
Bourbon Milkshake: For a more adventurous pairing, consider a bourbon milkshake. The rich, creamy flavor adds a decadent touch, perfect for adult gatherings.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup can add a sweet, earthy note to each cookie. It’s a simple way to elevate their flavor for a special occasion.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over frosting or on the side allows for an extra touch of sweetness that complements the spices perfectly.

Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin?
Absolutely! You can use fresh pumpkin; just ensure it’s cooked and pureed smoothly. To do this, cut a pumpkin into chunks, roast at 350°F for about 45 minutes, allow it to cool, then puree. This will give your cookies a delightful fresh flavor!

How long can I store my Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies?
Store your unfrosted cookies in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Frosted cookies are best in the fridge, lasting around 3 days while maintaining that soft texture. Just be sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Can I freeze Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the unfrosted cookies on a baking sheet in a single layer and put them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or enjoy them straight from the freezer for a cool treat!

What can I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to scoop, it may be due to humidity or not enough flour. I recommend chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to scoop without sticking to your hands!

Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, these Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies contain ingredients like sugar and butter that aren’t healthy for pets. If you’re looking for a treat that your furry friend can enjoy, consider making a simple pumpkin treat using plain, canned pumpkin without additives, mixed with a bit of oat flour.

How can I tell if my cookies are done baking?
The best way to check if your cookies are done is to look for a slight golden brown color on the edges, while the centers should still look a little soft. In this case, they’ll continue to firm up while cooling on the wire rack. If the edges are getting too brown, it’s time to take them out!

Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies Recipe FAQs