Welcome to the world of iced pumpkin cookies; where autumn flavors meet irresistible sweetness. If you're searching for the perfect fall treat that combines soft textures with gorgeous glazed toppings, then pumpkin spice cookies with frosting are exactly what you need. These delightful iced pumpkin cookies bring together warm spices and creamy frostings that'll make your kitchen smell absolutely magical. Whether you're baking for family gatherings or treating yourself, iced pumpkin cookies deliver comfort in every bite.

What makes iced pumpkin cookies truly special is their perfect balance of moistness and flavor. These Pumpkin Cookies with Glaze aren't just another dessert; they're a celebration of everything we love about the pumpkin spice season. From their tender crumb to their beautifully decorated icing, iced pumpkin cookies have become a beloved classic that bakers return to year after year.

Homemade iced pumpkin cookies with creamy frosting on a white kitchen table, shot from above.

Why These Iced Pumpkin Cookies Stand Out

These iced pumpkin cookies are crafted with quality ingredients that make all the difference in texture and taste. Each batch features real pumpkin puree combined with warm spices like cinnamon; nutmeg; and cloves for an authentic autumn experience. What sets these pumpkin spice cookies with frosting apart is the generous layer of smooth frosting that tops each cookie; creating a professional bakery appearance that impresses everyone.

The beauty of homemade iced pumpkin cookies lies in their versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you prefer a traditional cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze; these Pumpkin Cookies with Glaze adapt perfectly to your preferences. Bakers of all levels can master these pumpkin cookies with glaze; and the results consistently deliver soft; chewy centers with that signature autumn spice profile everyone craves during the cooler months.

Jump to:

Ingredients
Instructions
Equipment For Iced Pumpkin Cookies
Recipe Variations
Storage
The Secret Behind Perfect Iced Pumpkin Cookies
FAQ
Bringing It All Together; Your Autumn Cookie Adventure
Related
Pairing

Ingredients

Fresh pumpkin puree
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Ground ginger
Ground cloves
Salt
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Cream cheese
Powdered sugar
Milk

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Mix Your Dry Ingredients

Whisk together flour; baking powder; baking soda; cinnamon; nutmeg; ginger; cloves; and salt in a medium bowl
Set aside your dry mixture and ensure all spices are evenly distributed

Combine Wet Ingredients and Create Dough

Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy
Beat in eggs and vanilla extract
Fold in pumpkin puree until fully combined
Gently mix in your dry ingredients until a soft dough forms
Drop rounded spoonfuls onto prepared baking sheets

Bake and Frost Your Cookies

Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-18 minutes until golden
Cool cookies completely on wire racks
Prepare frosting by beating cream cheese; powdered sugar; and milk together
Spread or pipe frosting generously over each cooled cookie

Equipment For Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Large mixing bowls
Electric mixer or hand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Wire cooling racks
Cookie scoop
Frosting knife or piping bag with tips
Stand mixer (optional but helpful for iced pumpkin cookies)

Expert Cooking Tips

Allow all ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing for better texture
Don't overmix your dough as this can result in tough cookies
Use fresh pumpkin puree for the most authentic flavor in iced pumpkin cookies
Freeze your dough for 30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies
Ensure cookies are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting
Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizing and consistent baking results
Invest in quality spices as they make iced pumpkin cookies truly spectacular

Recipe Variations

Brown Butter Iced Pumpkin Cookies; add nutty depth with browned butter instead of regular butter
Vegan Iced Pumpkin Cookies; substitute eggs with applesauce and use dairy-free cream cheese frosting
Maple Glazed Pumpkin Cookies; replace cream cheese frosting with maple glaze for a lighter topping
Spiced Iced Pumpkin Cookies; increase spice amounts for those who love bold autumn flavors
Mini Iced Pumpkin Cookies; reduce baking time to 10-12 minutes for bite-sized treats
Gluten-Free Iced Pumpkin Cookies; swap all-purpose flour with certified gluten-free flour blend

Storage

Room Temperature; place in an airtight container for up to 5 days
Refrigerator; store in airtight containers for up to 10 days; perfect for iced pumpkin cookies
Freezer; wrap individual cookies and freeze for up to 3 months
Unfrosted Dough; refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking
Frosting Separately; store icing in airtight containers for easier organization
Pro Tip; don't stack warm cookies as frosting may stick together

The Secret Behind Perfect Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Creating the ultimate iced pumpkin cookies requires understanding the balance between ingredients and technique. The secret starts with using pure pumpkin puree; not pumpkin pie filling; which contains added sugars and spices. Your Pumpkin Cookies with Glaze will develop superior texture when you don't overbake them; keeping them slightly underdone in the center ensures that perfect chewy consistency everyone loves. The frosting is equally important; and allowing your cream cheese and butter to soften guarantees smooth; spreadable perfection on your cookies.

Temperature control is another crucial factor that separates good iced pumpkin cookies from exceptional ones. Refrigerating your dough allows flavors to develop more deeply and helps cookies maintain their shape during baking. When you top your frosted pumpkin teats for fall with frosting; do so only after they've completely cooled; this prevents the warm cookie from melting your carefully prepared icing and ensures picture-perfect presentation every single time.

FAQ

How long can iced cookies sit out?

Iced pumpkin cookies can safely sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours; covered to prevent drying. For longer storage; place them in an airtight container where iced pumpkin cookies will stay fresh and delicious. If your kitchen is particularly warm; aim for the shorter timeframe. Frosted cookies are more delicate than unfrosted varieties; so monitor them accordingly for best results.

How long do pumpkin cookies last in the fridge?

Properly stored iced pumpkin cookies last 7-10 days in your refrigerator when kept in airtight containers. The cooler temperature actually helps maintain frosting structure; making your iced pumpkin cookies stay fresher longer. Layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Many bakers prefer refrigerated iced pumpkin cookies as the cool temperature enhances flavor and extends shelf life significantly compared to room temperature storage.

How to know if pumpkin cookies are done?

Your iced pumpkin cookies are done when the edges appear set but centers remain slightly soft to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs; not wet batter. The cookies should have a light golden color on bottom edges. Don't overbake your pumpkin cookies with glaze; as they continue cooking slightly after removal from the oven and will firm up during cooling for perfect texture.

Should I refrigerate iced cookies?

Yes; refrigerating iced pumpkin cookies is highly recommended; especially if your kitchen stays warm. Chilled iced pumpkin cookies maintain frosting structure better and taste even more delicious. Store in airtight containers to prevent them from absorbing moisture or odors. Your recipe will keep 10 days refrigerated versus 5 days at room temperature; making this storage method ideal for batch baking.

Iced pumpkin cookies represent the essence of fall baking; and now you have everything needed to master this beloved classic. Whether you're making traditional pumpkin spice cookies with frosting or experimenting with variations like our Vegan Mexican Wedding Cookies at Home for a different twist on seasonal treats; the fundamental techniques remain valuable. These Pumpkin Cookies with Glaze pair beautifully with warm cider; coffee; or hot chocolate; making them perfect for gatherings and quiet moments alike.

Your baking repertoire wouldn't be complete without iced pumpkin cookies in your regular rotation; and once you've mastered this recipe; consider exploring related treats like the Best Gingerbread Men Cookie Recipe for extended holiday fun. Each batch of Pumpkin Cookies with Glaze you create becomes a cherished memory; a connection to autumn traditions; and a delicious reminder of why seasonal baking matters so much. Start baking today and discover why iced pumpkin cookies have earned their place as autumn's most anticipated dessert.

From my kitchen, with heart.
Megan Riley❤️

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