Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you adore the cozy flavors of autumn wrapped up in a soft, chewy bite, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Imagine warm pumpkin spices, hearty oats, and that irresistible creamy frosting combining in each delicious cookie. This treat perfectly captures the spirit of pumpkin season with a luscious twist that makes every bite feel like a comforting hug from an old friend.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a beautiful blend of simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a pivotal role in building the flavor, texture, and that gorgeous autumnal color. From the creamy richness of butter and cream cheese to the fragrant spices that elevate every bite, these ingredients work in harmony to give you the best pumpkin oatmeal cookie experience.

• ½ cup softened butter: Provides richness and helps create that perfect tender texture.
• ¾ cup white sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the pumpkin’s earthiness.
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar: Infuses moisture and a subtle, caramel-like depth.
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Brings moistness, beautiful color, and unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the warm flavors with a sweet aroma.
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy base for the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a soft crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works together with the acid in pumpkin for lift.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds signature warmth and spice.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Contributes subtle, nutty undertones.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves: Offers a little aromatic punch that complements the other spices.
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: The ultimate pumpkin seasoning blend to bring all spices to life.
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats: Gives texture, chew, and that classic hearty feel.
• ½ cup softened cream cheese: Essential for making the frosting luxuriously creamy and tangy.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds softness and richness to the frosting.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for frosting): Gives the frosting a lovely spice kick that pairs perfectly with the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Wraps the frosting in a smooth, sweet finish.

How to Make Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Get Ready

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your cookies bake evenly and slide off easily once they’re ready.

Step 2: Cream the Sugars and Butter

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is the secret to achieving that perfect cookie texture—make sure you don’t rush this step!

Step 3: Add Pumpkin, Egg, and Vanilla

Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined, forming a velvety batter that smells like fall in a bowl.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, pumpkin pie spice, and oats in another bowl. This ensures every spice is evenly distributed throughout your cookies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can toughen cookies, so a gentle hand is key here.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them comfortably apart. Flatten each slightly with your hand or the back of a spoon to encourage even baking and that perfect chewy texture.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned but the centers remain soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely—that’s when the magic really happens.

Step 8: Whip Up the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, beating until you achieve a luscious, spreadable frosting that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 9: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies have completely cooled, generously spread or pipe the frosting on each cookie. The cool, creamy frosting perfectly contrasts the warm spices and chewy oats of the cookie, creating a divine balance.

How to Serve Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

For an added touch of beauty and flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the frosting just before serving. You can even add finely chopped toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar to amp up the cozy vibes.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of chai tea, coffee, or a creamy latte, making your fall afternoons feel extra special. For a fancy touch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange them on a rustic wooden board with some small pumpkins and autumn leaves as decoration for a stunning seasonal centerpiece. Wrapping a few cookies in parchment paper tied with twine makes for the perfect homemade gift too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the frosting fresh and the cookies soft for up to 5 days—perfect for enjoying all week long.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookies without frosting in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and then spread fresh frosting on top. Alternatively, you can freeze frosted cookies on a tray first, then transfer to a container to keep the frosting intact.

Reheating

To enjoy them a little warm, gently reheat cookies without frosting in a microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) for 5 minutes. If frosted, let them come to room temperature before serving to keep the frosting from melting.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for this Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin first, removing as much liquid as possible for the best cookie texture.

Are these cookies chewy or crunchy?

These are best enjoyed soft and chewy, thanks to the oats, pumpkin puree, and careful baking time, but they have lightly crisped edges for lovely texture contrast.

Can I make the frosting dairy-free?

Absolutely! Try substituting dairy-free cream cheese and margarine in equal amounts. The taste may vary slightly, but the frosting will still be creamy and delicious.

Can I omit the frosting and still enjoy the cookies?

Definitely! The cookies on their own are flavorful and moist, making a great snack or breakfast treat, but the cinnamon cream cheese frosting takes them to decadent new heights.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure your butter is softened but not melted and chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking if you want thicker cookies. Also, avoid over-flattening when shaping them on the baking sheet.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way the warm spices, hearty oats, and luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting come together in this Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Whether you’re baking to celebrate the season or just craving something delicious and cozy, these cookies will not disappoint. So grab your apron and get ready to fill your kitchen with irresistible autumn scents—your new favorite cookie is waiting!

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