Name: Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (softened); 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed; light brown works best); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (can substitute with coconut sugar); 2 large Eggs (beaten until pale); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (opt for pure); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (100% pumpkin puree, not pie filling); 2 cups Flour (all-purpose); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon Cloves; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 2 cups Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats (do not switch with quick oats); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (softened); 1/4 cup Butter (softened); 2 cups Powdered Sugar; 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup (authentic is best); 1 teaspoon Vanilla

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As I stepped into my kitchen on a crisp autumn day, the air filled with the unmistakable scent of warm spices and freshly baked cookies. That’s when I knew it was time to whip up a batch of Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting. These delightful treats not only celebrate the flavors of fall but also offer a comforting chewy texture that hugs the senses. With a quick prep time and easy-to-find ingredients, these cookies are a must-have for anyone looking to bring warmth to their table. Topped with a luscious maple frosting, they’re the perfect companion for cozy evenings or an impromptu gathering with friends. Are you ready to dive into this delicious recipe and rekindle your love for homemade treats?

Why are these cookies a must-bake?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, warm spices, and sweet maple frosting creates a symphony of fall flavors that will have you craving more.

Comforting Texture: With their chewy, soft bites, these cookies deliver the ultimate cozy goodness that’s perfect for chilly days.

Quick & Easy: Using simple ingredients, this recipe can be whipped up in no time, making it an ideal choice for fun baking sessions with family.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, just like in my Caramel Chocolate Cookies for a personal touch!

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: They are perfect for sharing with friends or family during gatherings—simply irresistible alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea!

Create some warm memories today with these delightful Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies that will surely bring smiles to everyone’s faces!

Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bake the perfect autumn treat!

For the Cookies
• Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use softened for the best texture.
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness with a hint of molasses; light brown works best.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
• Eggs – Binds all ingredients together; beat until pale for the best results.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; opt for pure vanilla for the ultimate taste.
• Pumpkin Puree – The star of the show; ensure it’s 100% pumpkin puree, not pie filling.
• Flour – Gives structure to your cookies; all-purpose flour is recommended.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; ensures your cookies rise perfectly.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves – These warm spices elevate the fall flavor; don’t skip them!
• Salt – Balances out sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – Adds chewiness and heartiness; do not switch with quick oats.

For the Maple Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Forms the base for a creamy frosting; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust to your preferred sweetness level.
• Maple Syrup – Infuses a rich, sweet flavor into the frosting; authentic maple syrup is best.

These Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting are a delightful combination of textures and flavors, perfect for your fall baking adventures!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Maple Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze. This preparation ensures your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies bake evenly and have a lovely golden brown finish.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Beat them together on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, showcasing a pale color. This crucial step adds air, resulting in tender cookies with a delicious buttery flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings
Next, beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow this with 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1 cup of pumpkin puree, mixing until smooth. This blend of ingredients introduces incredible moisture and that signature pumpkin taste, setting the stage for your cookies.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. This is important to avoid overmixing, which can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 5: Add the Oats
Gently fold in 2 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats into your dough with a spatula or wooden spoon until evenly distributed. This step adds that wonderful chewiness to your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies, providing texture and heartiness that perfectly pairs with the pumpkin and spices.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each scoop to allow spreading. This spacing is key as it helps the cookies bake evenly, giving each cookie its distinctive chewy texture without merging into one another.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the centers look slightly soft and puffy. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so be cautious not to overbake. This timing ensures that each cookie captures the essence of cozy fall flavors.

Step 8: Cool on the Sheets
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the cookies to firm up even more while still retaining their softness in the center, enhancing the overall texture of your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies.

Step 9: Prepare the Maple Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the maple frosting by blending together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of softened butter in a medium bowl until smooth. Gradually add in 2 cups of powdered sugar along with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Mix until creamy and well-combined, achieving a delightful, spreadable frosting.

Step 10: Frost and Serve
Once your cookies are completely cool, generously spread the maple frosting on top of each cookie using a knife or a piping bag for a professional touch. The rich and creamy maple frosting pairs perfectly with the warm spices, delivering a delicious bite of your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Maple Frosting, ready for sharing or savoring alone!

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Storage Tips for Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to keep them fresh and chewy. Be sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Fridge: Frosted cookies should be refrigerated to maintain their maple frosting’s freshness. They can last in the fridge for up to a week while retaining their delightful flavors.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the unbaked cookie dough by scooping it into balls, placing them on a baking sheet, and freezing until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months; bake directly from frozen.
Reheating: For a wonderful warm treat, microwave the cookies for 10-15 seconds. This helps revive the soft, chewy texture and melt the frosting slightly for an added touch of indulgence. Enjoy your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies!

Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Variations

Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists on the classic cookies!

Nuts: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. Not only do nuts offer texture, but they also complement the warm spices beautifully.
Chocolate Chips: Stir in a generous 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for an indulgent touch. The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with the pumpkin flavor, elevating every bite!
Spice It Up: Want a little kick? Introduce a pinch of ground ginger or increase the cinnamon for bolder flavors. This small adjustment makes a big difference, enhancing the comforting aroma of fall.
Dried Fruit: Incorporate 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or raisins for natural sweetness and chewiness. The fruity pop inside each cookie contrasts wonderfully with the soft oatmeal base.
Pumpkin Spice Mix: Swap in a pumpkin spice blend for the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for an all-in-one flavor boost. This is a fantastic shortcut while keeping the seasonal spirit alive!
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Just ensure the mix contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
Coconut Flavor: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist! This addition introduces a delightful chewiness that complements the pumpkin oats beautifully.

Feel free to experiment with these variations to create your perfect batch of Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting! And as you’re exploring flavors, you might also enjoy my Browned Butter Cookies—another cozy treat perfect for the season.

What to Serve with Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting

Cozy up your autumn gatherings with the perfect accompaniments to these delightful treats!

Warm Apple Cider: This seasonal beverage enhances the spices in the cookies while providing a comforting warmth that’s perfect for fall.
Maple Latte: A sweet and creamy coffee drink gives a delightful contrast to the soft texture of the cookies, creating a delightful indulgence.
Caramel Ice Cream: The rich caramel flavor melds beautifully with pumpkin, creating a luscious dessert experience that few can resist.

For a cozy evening, enjoy each bite of your cookie with the warm embrace of cider or the rich creaminess of caramel ice cream. These pairings elevate the comforting vibes of your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies, making every moment feel special.

Chai Tea: The spiced notes in chai perfectly complement the pumpkin and warm spices, adding depth and warmth to your treat.
Pecan Pie Squares: A slice of pecan pie adds a crunchy texture that harmonizes nicely with the chewy cookies, making for an impressive dessert spread.
Cranberry Orange Muffins: These muffins’ tangy zest and soft crumb create a refreshing balance to the sweet maple frosting on your cookies.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake: The luscious sweetness and fruity flavor bring a vibrant contrast to the warm pumpkin tones in the cookies, creating blissful bites.

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop the dough onto baking sheets and cover tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating to keep it fresh. The maple frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week; just let it sit at room temperature to soften before using. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop the chilled dough straight into the oven and frost the cookies once they’ve cooled completely for that homemade comfort, all with minimal effort during busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Use Softened Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are fully softened. This step is crucial for achieving that smooth and airy texture in the cookies and frosting.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to keep cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, losing that desired comforting texture.
Cool Before Frosting: Allow cookies to cool completely before applying the maple frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and makes for a beautifully frosted treat.
Add Some Crunch: For added texture, consider mixing in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to your cookie dough. This customization elevates your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies to the next level!
Storage Matters: Store your cookies in an airtight container for freshness, ideally separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep well for 3-4 days, ready to delight whenever you need a cozy snack!

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Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! Be sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter often contains added sugars and spices that may disrupt the balance of flavors in your cookies, altering their delightful sweetness and texture.

How should I store my cookies?
It’s very important to store your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you’ve frosted them, I recommend refrigerating them to keep the maple frosting fresh. Just make sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Definitely! To freeze the cookie dough, scoop rounded tablespoons onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. After that, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, place them directly in the oven without thawing; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!

What can I do if the cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies end up a bit dry, very likely they were overbaked or too much flour was added. Ensure that you’re measuring precisely—it’s best to spoon flour into a measuring cup and level it off. For a remedy, try adding a tablespoon of milk or cream to your dough before rolling it out for baking. This should bring some moisture back into your cookies.

Are these cookies suitable for those with nut allergies?
The base recipe is inherently nut-free as it doesn’t include nuts; however, if you plan to add any mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, be mindful of your guests’ dietary restrictions. Always communicate the ingredients used if sharing with someone who has a nut allergy or other dietary limitations.

How do I ensure my maple frosting remains creamy?
To keep your maple frosting creamy and smooth, make sure both your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. Start blending the cream cheese and butter until fully combined, then gradually add the powdered sugar and maple syrup to avoid lumps. If you notice it becoming too thick, a splash of milk can help achieve a smoother consistency.