Name: Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 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% pumpkin, not pie filling); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (fresh); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon Cloves; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 3 cups Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats (do not substitute instant oats); 1/2 cup Maple Syrup; 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the sweet aroma of autumn wafting through the kitchen. My Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting perfectly capture that seasonal warmth. These delightful treats are not only simple to whip up but also fill your home with cozy flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg, inviting everyone to gather around. With their soft and chewy texture paired with a creamy maple frosting, they are a comfort food that satisfies both cravings and nostalgia. Plus, you can easily adapt the recipe to fit your taste preferences, from adding nuts to a chocolate chip twist. Ready to make your fall baking unforgettable? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why are these cookies a fall favorite?

Irresistible Flavor: The blend of warm spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—creates an enchanting aroma, transforming your kitchen into a cozy haven.

Easy to Bake: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers will feel like pros while whipping up these delightful treats.

Soft & Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a tender, chewy experience, enhanced by hearty oats that evoke comfort and warmth, perfect for crisp autumn days.

Versatile Options: Make this recipe your own by adding nuts or chocolate chips for a personalized twist.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether serving at a gathering or as an everyday snack, these cookies are sure to please a crowd. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for an unforgettable treat!

For another cozy delight, check out these Oatmeal Apple Breakfast bars or indulge in Chocolate Lava Brownie Cookies for a decadent dessert!

Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Butter – Provides richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor; can substitute with granulated sugar if necessary.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough; no substitutions required, but can lessen for a less sweet cookie.
• Eggs – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; can substitute with almond extract for different flavor notes.
• Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and flavor; canned pumpkin works well (100% pumpkin, not pie filling).
• Flour – Provides structure; all-purpose flour is recommended; gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute with adjustments.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves – Spice blend for warmth and depth of flavor; adjust amounts for personal taste preferences.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; essential for balance.
• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – Adds texture; do not substitute instant oats, as they alter the cookie’s texture.

For the Maple Frosting
• Maple Syrup – Sweetens and flavors the frosting; can substitute with honey or agave syrup, but flavor will vary.
• Cream Cheese – Provides creaminess and richness to the frosting; use full-fat for best results; can use mascarpone as a substitute.

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup. This step is crucial for ensuring your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies bake evenly and maintain their delightful shape while cooling.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter with 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, around 2-3 minutes. This creates a rich base for your cookie dough, enhancing the overall texture and flavor of the cookies.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, blend in the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, providing that comforting taste to your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves), and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices, ensuring your cookies rise perfectly and capture the fragrant essence of autumn. It’s important to do this step to prevent clumps in your dough.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula until just combined; avoid overmixing to ensure tenderness. Fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats gently. This will create the chewy texture that makes your cookies truly enjoyable, blending the rich pumpkin flavor with the hearty oats.

Step 6: Form the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded mounds of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each drop to allow for spreading. Aim for about 2 inches apart. This spacing is vital for your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies to bake uniformly without merging into one another.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The edges should appear set, while the centers will remain soft—this is a sign of their chewy texture. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as you want those delicious gooey centers.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling period helps them firm up, ensuring that they maintain their shape while enhancing that sought-after chewy texture.

Step 9: Prepare the Maple Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the maple frosting by beating softened cream cheese and butter together in a bowl until creamy. Slowly add in powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and spreadable. This frosting will elevate your cookies to blissful new heights!

Step 10: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies have completely cooled, generously frost each cookie with the maple frosting using a spatula or knife. Make sure to spread the frosting evenly for a delightful finish. These Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting are now ready to be enjoyed, bringing warmth and comfort with each bite!

Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious variations that will make your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies even more memorable, enticing your taste buds with every bite!

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture of the cookies.
Chocolate Indulgence: Mix in milk or white chocolate chips for a sweet twist. The melting chocolate will create luscious bites of goodness that every chocolate lover will adore.
Spicy Kick: For those who crave warmth, include ground ginger or even a pinch of cayenne pepper in the spice mix for a subtle heat that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
Fruity Burst: Add dried cranberries or even chocolate-covered raisins for a tangy-sweet surprise that brightens every bite—perfect for those who love a chewy texture with dried fruit!
Healthy Twist: Substitute half of the butter with apple sauce for a lower-fat option that keeps the cookies moist. It’s an excellent way to sneak in some fruit while enjoying this classic treat.
Gluten-Free Delight: Swap out all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend, adjusting liquids as necessary. Enjoy your fall favorite without any gluten concerns!
Autumn Spice Boost: Enhance the spices by adding a pinch of allspice or cardamom for a deeper flavor profile that screams autumn, making each cookie burst with seasonal warmth.
Maple Essence: Replace the vanilla extract in the frosting with maple extract for an intensified maple flavor that will send your cookies straight to the flavor next level!

To enjoy some more yummy fall treats, try these delightful Vanilla Waffle Cookies or whip up a batch of fun Oatmeal Apple Breakfast bars for your family!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting are a fantastic choice for meal prep and saving time on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop it onto baking sheets, cover tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight container, and refrigerate. For longer storage, freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. Additionally, the maple frosting can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just give it a quick stir before spreading onto cooled cookies. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked treats without the last-minute rush, keeping that delightful flavor just as delicious!

Expert Tips for Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Soft Ingredients: Allow butter and cream cheese to come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth texture in your Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies and frosting.
Don’t Overmix: Mix dough just until combined to maintain tenderness. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies, which we want to avoid for that delightful chewiness.
Proper Cooling: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This helps them firm up without falling apart.
Frosting Freshness: Store frosted cookies in the refrigerator to keep them fresh longer. This prevents the frosting from becoming too soft and protects the cookie texture.
Avoiding Spillage: Make sure to space out dough mounds on the baking sheet—about 2 inches apart—to prevent merging while baking, ensuring each Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookie keeps its shape!

Storage Tips for Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them soft and chewy without losing their delightful texture.

Fridge: If frosted, it’s best to refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for fresh taste and to maintain the creaminess of the maple frosting, lasting about 5 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked cookie dough by scooping rounded tablespoons onto a baking sheet, freezing until solid, then transferring to a resealable bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, simply microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, and they’ll be back to that fresh-baked softness that makes these Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting truly irresistible!

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

As you dive into the cozy world of fall flavors, pairing your cookies with the perfect companions can enhance your delightful experience.

Cup of Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai beautifully complement the cookies, creating a soothing experience that envelops your senses.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm, chewy cookies. Drizzle with caramel for extra indulgence!
Apple Cider: The crisp flavors of apple cider echo the autumn vibe, making it a refreshing drink to enjoy with your cookies.
Pecan Pie Bars: For a sweet spread, serve alongside fudgy pecan pie bars that echo the rich flavors of traditional fall desserts. They balance beautifully with the cookies!
Butternut Squash Soup: Pair these cookies with a warm bowl of butternut squash soup for a cozy meal, merging sweet and savory flavors in a wholesome way.
Hot Chocolate Delight: Enjoy your cookies with a cup of rich, velvety hot chocolate, creating a chocolatey twist to the pumpkin goodness.
Maple Pecan Scones: For a variety of textures and flavors, pair them with flaky scones that burst with maple and nutty goodness, enhancing that fall spirit.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Elevate your cookie experience by doubling down on pumpkin. These muffins add moist sweetness that beautifully mirrors the cookie flavors.
Sparkling Apple Juice: For a refreshing touch, sparkling apple juice offers a bubbly twist that livens up your dessert spread while echoing autumn vibes.

Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my pumpkin puree is good?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for a rich orange color and a smooth texture. Avoid any cans with dents or rust. The pumpkin should not have a strong, off-putting odor. If you’re using fresh pumpkin, make sure it doesn’t have dark spots or any signs of mold. Canned pumpkin (100% pure, not pie filling) is usually the best option for consistency and flavor.

What’s the best way to store Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies?
Very! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days for optimal freshness. If you’ve frosted them, it’s best to refrigerate them in an airtight container, where they’ll stay fresh for about 5 days. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Yes, you can! To freeze the cookie dough, scoop rounded tablespoons onto a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls into a resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake the frozen dough for a couple of extra minutes than the recipe calls for!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Absolutely, this can happen! If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to several reasons: make sure your butter isn’t too soft; it should be just softened, not melted. You can also chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking or add an extra tablespoon of flour to help stabilize them. Always ensure that baking soda is fresh for proper leavening as well!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely make these cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. I recommend using one specifically formulated for baking to achieve a similar texture. Be sure to check that all ingredients (like baking soda) are gluten-free as well. Your cookies will still turn out delicious!

Are there any allergens I should be aware of in these cookies?
For sure! This recipe contains common allergens such as gluten (from flour) and dairy (from butter and cream cheese). If you have specific allergies, you can substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative and use a gluten-free flour blend. Always check labels, especially for processed ingredients, to ensure they meet your dietary needs.