If you’re craving a cozy, wholesome treat that feels like a warm hug, then this Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with the natural sweetness of pumpkin and the comforting spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, these cookies are luxuriously soft with just the right touch of indulgence from the salted maple frosting. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, they deliver juicy flavor and a wonderful texture that makes them impossible to resist. Plus, they’re made with whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners to keep things healthier without sacrificing any fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is beautiful in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a vital role in bringing together the flavors and tenderness we adore in pumpkin cookies while keeping it nourishing. From the creamy pumpkin puree that gives moistness and vibrant color to the warming spices that elevate the seasonal magic, each component contributes to making this treat balanced and delicious.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: Provides moisture, natural sweetness, and that iconic pumpkin flavor.
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted: Adds healthy fats and keeps the cookies wonderfully soft.
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar: A lower-glycemic sweetener that lends a subtle caramel note.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour: Brings hearty texture and extra fiber for a wholesome bite.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise gently, ensuring they stay light and fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: The perfect warm spice that complements pumpkin beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a rich, nutty undertone that’s essential for fall desserts.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Gives a subtle zing that balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Amplifies all the sweet and spicy notes.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: The star of the salted maple frosting, giving it authentic sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons coconut cream: Adds creaminess and a luscious mouthfeel to the frosting.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Lifts the frosting flavor with floral hints.
- Sea salt, for sprinkling: Provides a delightful contrast to the sweet frosting, finishing off the cookies perfectly.
How to Make Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly without sticking, giving you a flawless finish every time.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy — this wet base is what keeps your cookies irresistibly soft and flavorful.
Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. This dry blend ensures each cookie has that perfect spice balance and just enough lift.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently but thoroughly until a soft dough forms. This step is key to achieving cookies that are tender rather than tough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough evenly onto your prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each cookie to about half an inch thickness for even baking and that classic soft texture.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cookies are just set and lightly golden at the edges. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before frosting — this keeps the frosting from melting and sliding off.
Step 7: Make the Salted Maple Frosting and Finish Your Cookies
Whisk together the maple syrup, coconut cream, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. Drizzle this divine frosting over each cooled cookie and finish with a light sprinkle of sea salt. The salty-sweet combo takes these cookies to a whole new level of deliciousness.
How to Serve Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies are beautiful on their own, but adding a few extra touches creates an irresistible presentation. Try topping them with chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, a dusting of cinnamon, or even a tiny drizzle of extra maple syrup to highlight their cozy flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a hot cup of chai tea or creamy latte for the ultimate fall-inspired indulgence. They also make a delightful afternoon snack with a glass of almond or oat milk, balancing sweetness with a comforting beverage.
Creative Ways to Present
For gift-giving or parties, arrange your Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe on a rustic wooden board sprinkled lightly with cinnamon sticks or small pumpkin decorations. You can also sandwich two cookies with a layer of cream cheese or coconut cream frosting for an extra-special treat everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This preserves their softness and keeps the frosting fresh. Avoid refrigerating unless your kitchen is very warm, or the frosting might become too firm.
Freezing
You can freeze the cookies without frosting for up to 2 months. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a sealed bag or container. When ready, thaw at room temperature and add fresh salted maple frosting.
Reheating
If you prefer your cookies warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes or microwave for about 10 seconds. Add the frosting just before serving to keep that irresistible soft texture and fresh flavor.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree without added sugars or spices to maintain the intended flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for coconut oil?
If you don’t have coconut oil, melted unsalted butter or a neutral vegetable oil works well and will still keep the cookies tender.
Is whole wheat flour necessary?
Whole wheat flour adds a lovely nutty flavor and nutrition, but you can swap it for all-purpose flour if you prefer a lighter cookie.
How should I measure the pumpkin puree?
Spoon the pumpkin into your measuring cup rather than dumping it in to avoid packing, which can result in too much pumpkin and a soggy texture.
Can I make the frosting dairy-free?
This frosting is already dairy-free thanks to coconut cream, making it perfect if you’re avoiding dairy but still want that creamy frosting indulgence.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’re armed with this warm, cozy Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and fill your kitchen with the irresistible scent of fall. These cookies bring together wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors in a way that feels both special and achievable. Share them with loved ones or savor them as your personal afternoon bliss — either way, you’ve got a new favorite to keep coming back to season after season.
Print
Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting are a delightful treat, perfect for the fall season or any time you crave a soft, spiced cookie with a luscious, sweet and salty frosting. Made with wholesome ingredients like pumpkin puree and whole wheat flour, these cookies offer a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor or softness.
Ingredients
Cookie Ingredients
- 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
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons coconut cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt, making sure the spices and baking powder are evenly distributed.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring continuously until a dough forms that is well blended but not overmixed.
- Shape Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them to allow for spreading. Flatten each scoop slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are set and the edges turn lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- Make the Frosting: While the cookies cool, whisk together the maple syrup, coconut cream, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth, pourable frosting.
- Add Frosting and Garnish: Drizzle the salted maple frosting over the cooled cookies and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top to enhance the flavor balance between sweet and salty.
Notes
- Ensure the cookies have cooled completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- For a thicker frosting, chill slightly before drizzling.
- Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best results.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to keep longer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
