Fall is the perfect season for cozy treats, and these Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of autumn. With their soft and fluffy texture, these cookies are not only delicious but also made with wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about indulging in. Whether you’re enjoying them with a warm cup of tea or sharing them at a gathering, these cookies are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Salted Maple Frosting:
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons coconut cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sea salt, for sprinkling
Directions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt.
Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Shape the cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly.
Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly golden on the edges. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
For the Frosting:
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, coconut cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Once the cookies are cooled, drizzle the frosting over them and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.
Serving Tips:
Best Served Fresh: These pumpkin cookies are best enjoyed fresh, soon after the frosting has been drizzled and set. The soft and fluffy texture pairs beautifully with a warm drink like tea, coffee, or spiced apple cider.
Garnish Ideas: For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts over the frosting before the sea salt, or even a dash of cinnamon for added fall flavor.
Occasions: These cookies are perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or even as a cozy snack to enjoy at home. Serve them as part of a dessert spread or individually wrapped for a festive touch.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
Refrigeration: If you want to extend their freshness, place the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing: These pumpkin cookies freeze well! Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze for about 1 hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and reapply the salted maple frosting if needed.
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FAQs:
Can I use a different type of flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour, almond flour, or gluten-free flour blends. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly. If using a gluten-free flour, ensure it’s a blend suitable for baking to achieve the best results.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
To make these cookies vegan, simply replace the coconut cream in the frosting with a plant-based alternative, such as almond cream or vegan butter. Additionally, ensure that the pumpkin puree and other ingredients you use are free from animal products.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruits to the dough for added flavor and texture. Just be cautious with the quantity; about 1/2 cup of mix-ins should work well without compromising the dough’s consistency.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
To store leftover cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. If freezing, ensure they are fully cooled and separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying!
Conclusion:
These Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting are a delightful way to indulge in the flavors of fall while keeping things wholesome. Perfect for gatherings or as a cozy treat for yourself, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite. So gather your ingredients and start baking—your taste buds will thank you!
📖 Recipe:
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Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting, made with wholesome ingredients like pumpkin puree and coconut sugar. These delightful cookies are soft, fluffy, and perfect for a cozy fall treat. Topped with a creamy salted maple frosting, they are a guilt-free dessert option that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg. Ideal for gatherings or a sweet snack at home!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Salted Maple Frosting:
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons coconut cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten slightly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly golden on the edges. Let them cool completely.
- For the frosting, whisk together the maple syrup, coconut cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the frosting over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with sea salt.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
For freezing, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 18 cookies
- Calories: 140 kcal
