Frosted Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

If you’re ready to cozy up with a delicious treat that embodies the warmth and joy of fall, look no further than these Frosted Pumpkin Snickerdoodles. With a soft and chewy texture, these cookies are perfectly spiced and topped with a delightful frosting that takes them to the next level. Perfect for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, these cookies combine the irresistible flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, making them a must-try recipe.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

The allure of these Frosted Pumpkin Snickerdoodles comes from the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg meld beautifully with the rich pumpkin puree, creating a cookie that tastes like a hug in dessert form. The addition of the frosting makes each bite even more decadent, adding a creamy sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the spiced cookie base. Whether you’re in the mood for a fall treat or simply want something delicious to share, this recipe is here to impress.

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 ¾ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• For the frosting:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (or more as needed for consistency)

How To Make Frosted Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted and cooled butter with the vegetable oil. Whisk in the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate all the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are perfectly fine.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances their flavor.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Once the dough has chilled, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Place the cookie balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven, so make sure not to overbake them.

Step 7: Cool the Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well incorporated. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired frosting consistency.

Step 9: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread the frosting over the tops using a spatula or a piping bag for a more decorative touch. Enjoy your Frosted Pumpkin Snickerdoodles!

Expert Tips

• For the best flavor, use pure pumpkin puree and not the spiced pie filling.
• Chilling the dough is essential for achieving that perfect texture; don’t skip this step!
• If you prefer a thicker frosting, reduce the amount of milk added.
• Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.

Variations and Customizations

• Add chocolate chips or white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
• Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
• Include chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Experiment with different spices; try adding allspice or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

To store your Frosted Pumpkin Snickerdoodles, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For extended storage, consider freezing the unfrosted cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and frost!

FAQ

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for the regular flour. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent.

What can I use instead of cream cheese in the frosting?

If you prefer a non-dairy option, you can use a vegan cream cheese alternative or simply replace it with more butter. However, the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

Can these cookies be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it or even freeze it for later use. Bake the cookies fresh when you’re ready to enjoy them.

Can I omit spices or change them in the recipe?

Yes, you can customize the spices to your liking! If you’re not a fan of certain spices, feel free to omit them or alter the amounts to suit your taste preference. Just remember that this may change the overall flavor of the cookies.

Conclusion

These Frosted Pumpkin Snickerdoodles are the perfect treat to celebrate fall flavors and comfort food. With their soft and chewy texture, delightful spices, and sweet frosting, they are sure to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire. Whether you’re sharing them with family and friends or savoring them all to yourself, each bite delivers warmth and happiness. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to indulge in a little slice of pumpkin heaven!