Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies topped with a delightful Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for any autumn gathering or simply as a sweet treat for yourself.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1/2 cup softened butter
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats

For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, pumpkin pie spice, and oats. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Bake the Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Make the Frosting: While the cookies cool, prepare the cinnamon cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
6. Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe the cinnamon cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 30-32 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies

Variations

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet twist.
• Use Different Spices: Experiment with cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor.
• Make Them Vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan alternatives and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: These cookies can be frozen without frosting. Wrap them tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting and serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
   Yes, just ensure it is well-puréed and not too watery.
2. How can I make the cookies less sweet?
   Reduce the amount of sugar in the cookie dough or frosting to taste.
3. Do I have to use oats?
   Oats add texture, but you can omit them if you prefer a smoother cookie.
4. Can I substitute gluten-free flour?
   Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
5. What’s the best way to frost these cookies?
   A piping bag can give a nice finish, but spreading with a knife works just as well.
6. Can I add nuts?
   Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans would be a great addition.
7. What if my dough is too wet?
   If it feels too wet, you can add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
8. How do I know when the cookies are done?
   The edges should be lightly browned, and the centers may look slightly underbaked.
9. Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it soften before spreading.
10. Are these cookies good for mailing?
    Yes, they travel well! Just ensure they are packed securely to avoid breaking.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. They’re easy to make and sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy them with a warm beverage and savor the flavors of the season!

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