These soft and spiced cookies are perfect for cozy fall days, blending warm pumpkin flavors with a sweet touch of maple frosting. They’re easy to make and sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home.
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice — this will give your cookies that perfect spice blend.
In another big bowl, cream the shortening and brown sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about a minute. Then add the pumpkin, egg, and vanilla, mixing everything until it’s well combined. Gradually add the flour mixture in two parts, mixing after each addition until just combined.
Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto your prepared sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake the cookies for around 14 minutes, until the edges start to turn a nice golden brown. Halfway through baking, swap the pans’ positions to make sure they cook evenly.
While the cookies bake, whip up the frosting by beating together butter and maple syrup until smooth. Stir in pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla, then gradually add powdered sugar and beat until the frosting is fluffy. If you like, mix in a little food coloring to give it a fun touch.
Once the cookies come out of the oven, let them cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely, which should take another 20 to 30 minutes. When the cookies are fully cooled, drizzle or spread the maple frosting over the top, and if you want, sprinkle on some decorations to finish them off.
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor and texture.
- Chill the dough before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.
- Drizzle the maple frosting when the cookies are completely cool to prevent it from melting.
These cookies bring together the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with a sweet maple drizzle. They are soft, moist, and perfect for cozy autumn days or holiday gatherings. The balance of sweetness and spice makes them a real crowd-pleaser.
Serve these cookies with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or warm apple cider. They also pair nicely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Perfect for sharing during festive parties or as a sweet snack any time of day.
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. To keep the frosting fresh, place parchment paper between layers. For longer storage, freeze the cookies without frosting and add the drizzle once thawed.
