Name: Cozy Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (softened); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar; 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 2 large Eggs (room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (100% canned, not pie filling); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (can substitute with whole wheat flour); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon Cloves; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 2 cups Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats (no substitutions); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened); 4 cups Powdered Sugar; 1/4 cup Maple Syrup (pure)

As the crisp air settles in and leaves begin to turn, I’ve found myself in the kitchen, craving the cozy, homey delights of fall. Enter my Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting, a perfect blend of nostalgia and seasonal flavors. With warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, these cookies evoke the comforting essence of autumn baking. Not only are they super simple to whip up, but their chewy texture paired with creamy maple frosting is a delightful treat that promises to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re pairing them with a hot cup of tea or a glass of cold milk, these cookies are sure to bring warmth to your kitchen and smiles to your table. Ready to bake up some memories this fall?

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Comforting Flavors: The warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves provide a cozy flavor that perfectly captures the essence of autumn.
Chewy Delight: Enjoy a soft and chewy texture that balances beautifully with the creamy maple frosting, making each bite a dream.
Customizable Variations: Make these cookies your own by adding chocolate chips or nuts for added crunch and flair.
Quick and Easy: Whipping up these cookies is a breeze, perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
Perfect for Sharing: Bring these treats to gatherings or share them with loved ones to spread the warmth of fall. Try pairing them with a cup of Oatmeal Apple Breakfast for a delightful fall morning!

Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and a slight caramel flavor; can substitute with coconut sugar for a different taste.
Granulated Sugar – Balances the sweetness and contributes to the texture.
Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; use room temperature eggs for best results.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
Pumpkin Puree – Acts as the primary flavor and moisture source; opt for 100% canned pumpkin, not pie filling.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier alternative.
Baking Soda – Leavening agent that helps the cookies rise perfectly.
Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves – Warm spices that contribute to the cozy flavor profile embodying fall.
Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – Provides a delightful chewy texture; avoid substituting with instant oats.

For the Maple Frosting

Cream Cheese – Forms the base of the maple frosting, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture; make sure it’s softened.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and provides the right consistency.
Maple Syrup – Gives the frosting its signature flavor; make sure to use pure maple syrup for the best taste.

These Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting are not just a treat; they’re a delightful way to celebrate the season while bringing comfort and joy to your loved ones. Happy baking!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Maple Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step ensures that your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect soft and chewy texture, so take a moment to prepare your space.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This creates a rich base that will help the cookies rise beautifully, so be sure the ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Pumpkin
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, add the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree, mixing until everything is well combined and creamy. This flavorful mixture brings the cozy autumn essence to your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies, making it delightful.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until they’re evenly mixed. This ensures that your dry ingredients are well combined, which is vital for the proper texture of the cookies. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Stir in Rolled Oats
Now, gently fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats with a spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step is key to achieving that perfect chewy texture in your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. Avoid overmixing here, as this will help maintain their soft consistency.

Step 6: Shape and Space the Dough
Using a tablespoon, drop rounded scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each mound. This spacing prevents the cookies from merging during baking. You should have about 12 cookies per sheet to ensure they cook evenly and don’t overcrowd.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes. Look for the edges to be set while the centers remain slightly soft—this is when they are perfect. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking; you want that delicious soft texture to shine through.

Step 8: Cool on Baking Sheets
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This cooling time allows them to firm up a bit without falling apart. After that, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their lovely chewy texture.

Step 9: Prepare the Maple Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the creamy maple frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and maple syrup, mixing until the frosting reaches a velvety consistency. This delectable frosting truly elevates your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies.

Step 10: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe the maple frosting generously onto each cookie. The creamy and sweet frosting complements the rich pumpkin flavor beautifully, making them irresistible. Don’t be shy—add a decorative swirl for a finishing touch!

What to Serve with Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting

These delightful cookies invite a cozy atmosphere that pairs beautifully with complementary flavors and textures.

Warm Apple Cider: The sweet and spiced notes of apple cider echo the flavors of your cookies, creating a perfect fall fusion.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The rich creaminess balances the chewy texture, providing a lovely contrast that enhances each delicious bite.
Creamy Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of hot chocolate becomes a soul-soothing partner, heightening the cozy experience of autumn treats.
Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai tea harmonize wonderfully with the pumpkin flavors, enriching your snack time with warmth.
Roasted Nuts: A handful of crunchy roasted pecans or walnuts adds delightful texture and pairs well with the cookie’s sweet profile.
Cranberry Coffee Cake: This sweet and tart treat creates an interesting flavor dynamic, making each moment around the table more memorable.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: A classic autumn beverage that complements the pumpkin in your cookies and invites a festive spirit to the occasion.
Maple Pecan Pie: If you’re looking for a dessert pairing, this pie’s nutty sweetness beautifully complements the maple frosting of your cookies.
Autumn Fruit Salad: Fresh apples, pears, and citrus add juicy brightness, providing contrast to the cookies and balancing out their richness.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this decadent sauce over each cookie lifts the flavor profile, offering a delightful touch of indulgence.

Expert Tips for Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Soften Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for optimal mixing, preventing lumps in your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies.
Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing once the dry ingredients are added; this will keep your cookies tender and chewy, rather than tough.
Cool Before Frosting: Allow cookies to cool completely on the wire rack before frosting to prevent the maple frosting from melting and losing its shape.
Baking Time Caution: Keep an eye on the baking time; cookies should be set at the edges while soft in the center to maintain their delicious chewy texture.
Flavor Boost: Experiment with spices or add-ins, like nuts or chocolate chips, to customize your cookies while still highlighting that wonderful pumpkin flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months—when ready to bake, just place them on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. To maintain quality, frost the cookies only when they are completely cooled, as this ensures the maple frosting stays creamy and doesn’t melt. Enjoy these cozy treats with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on the classic recipe!

Nutty Burst: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor. The combination of nuts and pumpkin creates a heartwarming experience.
Chocolate Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (milk or white) for a sweeter bite. The melty chocolate elevates these cookies, making every moment a bit more decadent.
Spice it Up: Enhance the spice profile by mixing in 1 teaspoon of ground ginger or an extra dash of cinnamon. This subtle shift adds an exciting depth to the warmth of the cookies.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to craft a version that everyone can enjoy. These cookies will still deliver that deliciously chewy texture, making them a favorite for all dietary needs.
Maple Twist: Replace a portion of the granulated sugar with more maple syrup in the frosting for an intensified maple flavor. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in taste.
Coconut Flavor: Toss in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flair. The sweetness of the coconut complements the pumpkin and spices beautifully.
Baking Spice Variance: Substitute traditional pie spices with pumpkin pie spice for a convenient one-stop option. This mix simplifies your baking routine while still ensuring bold flavors.

For an exciting breakfast or snack, pair these cookies with a glass of milk or a comforting cup of Oatmeal Apple Breakfast. Don’t forget to check out the Lava Brownie Cookies for a chocolaty treat change-up!

How to Store and Freeze Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Airtight Container: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at room temperature to keep them fresh and chewy.

Refrigerator: If your cookies are frosted, keep them in the refrigerator to maintain the creaminess of the maple frosting, enjoying them within a week for the best flavor.

Freezing Cookies: You can freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag; separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked taste.

Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! It’s important to use 100% canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and texture in your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. Look for the label that specifies “pure pumpkin” to ensure you’re getting the good stuff!

How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to keep them fresh and chewy. If your cookies are frosted with maple frosting, I recommend refrigerating them. They can last in the fridge for about a week, but trust me, they won’t last that long!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Very! To freeze the cookie dough for your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies, scoop the dough into rounded tablespoons, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container and they will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if you bake them from frozen.

What if my cookies come out too dry?
Oh, no worries! If you notice your cookies are turning out dry, it could be due to overbaking or too much flour. Always scoop the flour gently into your measuring cup and level it off without packing it down. If you’re unsure, you can test a batch by baking just one cookie first to check for texture—this will help you adjust the time or amount of flour as needed.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Definitely! If you or your loved ones have gluten sensitivities, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum. The resulting texture might be slightly different, but they will still be delicious! Enjoy the cozy flavors while catering to dietary needs!