Thanksgiving is the time when pies rule, but this year, I’m here to shake things up with Thanksgiving pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that tastes like autumn wrapped in a warm hug. Cinnamon Roll Protein Crepes Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites They are cozy, they are comforting, and they smell like everything good about the season. For more inspiration, check out this butterscotch chocolate chip cookies recipe.
These delightful cookies have become a family staple at our Thanksgiving gatherings. The first time I made them, my cousin mistook them for actual pie and was seriously disappointed when he realized he had to chew instead of spoon! But after the first bite, he was a convert; that’s how magical these cookies are. For more inspiration, check out this banana foster chex mix recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Thanksgiving pumpkin cookies with cinnamon frosting are simple to make and perfect for all ages
- Their warm spices create an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen
- Visually appealing with their vibrant orange color and creamy frosting, they will steal the show on any dessert table
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round!
I still chuckle when I recall my friends’ wide eyes the first time I brought these cookies to a potluck. You’d think I had just unveiled a new superhero or something. “What are these?!” someone exclaimed as if it were an alien delicacy. But trust me, once you try them, you’ll see why they have become my secret weapon for holiday gatherings.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience; it provides the moistness essential for these cookies.
-
Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar adds sweetness, but feel free to swap part for brown sugar for extra flavor.
-
Eggs: Bring them to room temperature before use for better incorporation into your batter.
-
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your cookie; sift it for lightness and fluffy texture.
-
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Essential leavening agents that help your cookies rise perfectly.
-
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices give your cookies that holiday warmth; fresh ground is best if you can manage it!
-
Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness in your cookies.
-
Powdered Sugar: For the creamy cinnamon frosting that will take your cookie game to another level.
-
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances all those beautiful flavors in both the dough and frosting.
-
Milk: Just a dash to achieve the right consistency for your icing; whole milk works best!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Roasted Tomato Basil Soup.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Create the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time along with pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined—avoid overmixing!
Scoop & Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto prepared baking sheets. Leave some space between each cookie because they love to spread out!
Bake Until Golden: Bake in preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until golden around the edges but soft in the center. No Bake Maple Bourbon Cheesecake Let them cool on the sheets before transferring them to wire racks.
Make the Cinnamon Frosting: While cookies cool down, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust milk quantity for desired consistency—thicker for spreading or thinner for drizzling!
Now you’re ready to frost those delicious pumpkin cookies! Enjoy each bite while basking in their warm flavors—perfectly paired with hot cider or coffee as you create cherished memories this Thanksgiving season!
You Must Know
- Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are the perfect blend of spice and sweetness
- The texture is soft, chewy, and melts in your mouth
- They fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that makes everyone feel cozy and ready for the holidays
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the best Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cookies, mix your wet ingredients first, then add dry ones gradually. This ensures an even distribution of flavors and prevents clumping.

Add Your Touch
Customize your cookies by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra crunch. You could also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For reheating, pop them in the microwave for 10 seconds to regain their gooey texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned to elevate flavor; it’s worth it!
- Ensure your butter is softened for a smoother dough and better mixing
- Don’t overbake; aim for a light golden color on the edges for optimal softness
The first time I made Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cookies, my family devoured them within minutes. Their smiles were priceless, and I knew I had to share this recipe.

FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for these cookies?
Yes, but using fresh pumpkin gives a richer flavor and better texture.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
Chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
Description
Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting are the perfect autumn treat to bring warmth to your holiday gatherings. These soft, chewy cookies deliver the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices, topped with a rich cinnamon frosting that is simply irresistible. Easy to make and visually appealing, they’ll steal the spotlight on any dessert table, making them a must-try for Thanksgiving or year-round enjoyment.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp milk (whole)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla; mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until just combined.
- Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto prepared sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft. Cool before transferring to wire racks.
- For frosting, whisk powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth; adjust milk for desired consistency.
- Frost cooled cookies and serve!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg





Leave a Comment