Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Caramel Frosting

Hi there, food lover! 👋

Ready to step into the comforting world of autumn baking? When the air cools, the leaves turn gold, and kitchens everywhere begin to glow with the scent of warming spices, there’s nothing quite like a classic treat that brings everyone together. Today’s recipe is a cherished seasonal delight—soft, tender pumpkin cookies crowned with a silky salted caramel frosting. 🎃✨

These cookies trace their roots to the sort of timeless home baking that families have enjoyed for generations. They evoke moments of gathering around the hearth, sharing warm pastries made with care, and savoring flavors that speak of tradition and togetherness. The gentle sweetness of pumpkin, the nostalgic aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the rich kiss of salted caramel make this recipe not only delicious but also deeply comforting.

Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering, a holiday dessert table, or simply to bring warmth into your own home, these cookies deliver a taste of classic autumn charm. Each bite offers a tender crumb and a frosting that melts blissfully on the tongue. So, tie on your apron, breathe in the familiar fragrance of fall spices, and join me in creating a batch of cookies that feel like home. 🍪🍂

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Ingredients

For the Soft Pumpkin Cookies

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin purée
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Salted Caramel Frosting

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (plus more for sprinkling)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and release easily.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Set this fragrant blend aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step helps create the soft texture we’re aiming for.
4. Add in the pumpkin purée, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix gently until well blended.
5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Take care not to overmix, as that can toughen the dough.
6. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops appear slightly puffed. Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting.
8. To make the frosting, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and bring to a gentle boil.
9. Add the milk and continue cooking for 1–2 minutes, stirring as the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
10. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth and spreadable. Add sea salt to taste.
11. Frost the cooled cookies generously, then sprinkle lightly with extra sea salt if desired. Enjoy the sweet aroma that fills your kitchen!

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Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 14 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 29 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~210 | 🍽️ Servings: 24 cookies

#pumpkincookies #autumnbaking #traditionalrecipes #saltedcaramel #homemadegoodness

Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️