If you’re craving a cozy, seasonal treat that satisfies both your sweet tooth and your desire to eat a bit healthier, this Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. Every bite brings together the tender warmth of pumpkin spices and the irresistible creaminess of a salted maple frosting, making these cookies a perfect fall dessert. They’re soft, moist, and packed with wholesome ingredients that don’t skimp on flavor, so you can feel good about indulging. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or friends, these pumpkin cookies are sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating those moist textures, warm flavors, and subtle sweetness that make these cookies so special. From the white whole wheat flour that adds heartiness to the fragrant spices that bring the pumpkin filling to life, these ingredients come together beautifully.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Adds moisture and that iconic pumpkin taste everyone loves.
- 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted and cooled): Provides healthy fats and keeps the cookies tender.
- 1/2 cup maple syrup: Natural sweetener that adds depth and a subtle caramel note.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the warm flavors beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups white whole wheat flour: Offers a nutritious base with a mild nutty flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just right.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds additional lift and lightness to the texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic pumpkin spice warmth in every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds aromatic spice complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Offers a subtle zing to complement the pumpkin.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
For the Salted Maple Frosting
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened): Creates a creamy, rich base for the frosting.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Infuses the frosting with natural sweetness and that lovely maple flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor and ties everything together.
- 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt: Elevates the sweetness with a perfect touch of saltiness.
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a luscious consistency.
How to Make Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze and your cookies come out picture-perfect every time.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and silky. This blend forms the moist, flavorful base that makes these cookies so soft and tender.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mixing the spices evenly with the flour ensures that every cookie has a perfect balance of fall flavors.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing could make the cookies tough rather than soft and cakey.
Step 5: Bake Your Cookies
Drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for slight spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the edges are set and the tops look just firm, but the centers still feel soft to the touch.
Step 6: Cool and Frost
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting. This step is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off.
Step 7: Make the Salted Maple Frosting
While the cookies cool, beat the softened butter in a bowl until light and fluffy. Then add the maple syrup, vanilla extract, fine sea salt, and powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the frosting becomes smooth and creamy. Once the cookies are fully cooled, frost each one generously and sprinkle lightly with a touch of sea salt if you like a contrast to the sweetness.
How to Serve Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
A little extra flair always helps, so consider a light sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped pecans on top of the frosting for added crunch and autumnal vibes. Freshly grated nutmeg or a dusting of cinnamon can also add extra aroma and color.
Side Dishes
These cookies shine brightly on their own but pair superbly with a warm mug of chai tea, cinnamon-spiced coffee, or a creamy cup of hot apple cider. The spices and sweetness in the drinks complement the pumpkin and maple flavors perfectly, making them a cozy fall duo.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, arrange your cookies on a rustic wooden board with some small bowls filled with extra frosting, nuts, and cinnamon sticks for dipping and decorating. You could also layer cookies with parchment paper between for a charming homemade gift box or place them alongside a beautifully spiced pumpkin cheesecake for a festive dessert spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your freshly frosted Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay moist and flavorful for up to 4 days, making them perfect for a sweet snack throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the cookies before frosting by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen cookies last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and then frost just before serving for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
If you want to warm your cookies, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) for 5 minutes. Avoid reheating frosted cookies for too long to prevent the frosting from melting. Warmed cookies release their pumpkin-spice aroma wonderfully, enhancing your cozy experience.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the white whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture will be slightly different but still deliciously soft and flavorful.
Is there a dairy-free option for the frosting?
Yes, swap out the unsalted butter for a plant-based dairy-free butter substitute to make the frosting vegan-friendly and dairy-free without sacrificing that creamy texture and rich flavor.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
You can, but fresh pumpkin needs to be cooked and pureed first. Bake or steam chunks of pumpkin until very soft and then puree until smooth. Be sure to measure out a cup of puree, as fresh pumpkin can have a different moisture content than canned.
How soft are these pumpkin cookies?
These cookies have a wonderfully soft, cakey texture rather than being crispy or crunchy. The pumpkin puree helps keep them moist and tender, making them feel like a comforting fall dessert you’ll want to savor slowly.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Definitely! This Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe scales well. Just be sure to mix gently and monitor your baking time, as cookies may need an extra minute or two if your sheet gets crowded.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly wonderful about baking pumpkin treats that are both comforting and a little better for you, and this Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe captures that magic perfectly. I hope this warms your kitchen and your heart as it has mine. Give it a try and watch these soft, flavorful cookies become an instant favorite with everyone lucky enough to enjoy them.
Print
Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting are a delightful fall-inspired treat perfect for those seeking a wholesome dessert. Made with white whole wheat flour, pumpkin puree, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup, these cookies offer a moist and cakey texture. Topped with a creamy, salted maple frosting, they are both comforting and flavorful while maintaining a balanced nutritional profile.
Ingredients
Cookie Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted and cooled)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups white whole wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Salted Maple Frosting
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted and cooled coconut oil, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth and well-blended mixture.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Form the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently and just until combined to avoid overworking the batter and maintain a soft texture.
- Shape cookies: Drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart to allow for expansion during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops appear just firm, indicating they are cooked through but still soft inside.
- Cool cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the pan for 5 minutes, which helps them firm up for easier handling, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Add the maple syrup, vanilla extract, fine sea salt, and powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
- Frost cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread the salted maple frosting evenly over each cookie. Optionally, sprinkle a light pinch of fine sea salt on top to enhance the flavor contrast.
Notes
- The cookies have a soft, cake-like texture perfect for fall and autumn celebrations.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based butter in the frosting.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- You can also freeze frosted cookies for longer storage; thaw before serving.
