Gluten-free Soft Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Brown Sugar Icing

Name: Pumpkin Spice Cookies w/ Brown Sugar Icing
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Yield: 20 Cookies
Ingredients: 1/2 c. unsalted butter; 1/2 c. brown sugar, packed; 1/4 c. sugar; 1 large egg; 1/2 c. pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling); 1 tsp. vanilla; 1 1/2 c. gluten-free flour blend, spooned and leveled (I use Bob's RedMill 1:1); 1/2 tsp. baking powder; 1/2 tsp. baking soda; 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice; 1/4 tsp. salt; 1/4 c. unsalted butter; 1/4 c. brown sugar, packed; 2 Tbsp. milk; 1/2 tsp. vanilla; 2 c. powdered sugar; Pinch of salt

Desserts

Oct 13

Written By Kali Terry

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, soft pumpkin spice cookie, especially when the crisp fall air beckons with its cool, refreshing breeze. These gluten-free pumpkin spice cookies, topped with a luscious brown sugar icing and garnished with chopped pecans, are a perfect treat to embrace the cozy vibes of the season. They evoke the essence of fall in every bite, with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger swirled into a soft, melt-in-your-mouth base. Not only are they a delicious indulgence, but they’re also a great choice for those avoiding gluten, ensuring everyone can partake in the autumn festivities.

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Gluten-Free Frosted Pumpkin Spice Cookies

The Soft, Perfect Texture

The texture of these cookies is the true standout. Unlike the more firm, crispy cookies that can sometimes dominate the cookie world, these pumpkin spice cookies are delicate and soft, almost like a pillow of pumpkin goodness. The dough bakes up into thick, chewy rounds that maintain a moisture-packed interior. As you sink your teeth into one, it’s almost like biting into a freshly baked cake, dense with flavor but airy enough to offer the perfect balance of texture. The gluten-free flour blend ensures that these cookies don’t become crumbly, unlike some gluten-free baked goods that can often dry out or fall apart. Instead, the dough retains the perfect amount of elasticity, giving you that satisfying soft bite.

Warm Spices and Fall Flavors

What really makes these cookies feel like fall is the deep, rich blend of spices that infuse every bite. The pumpkin, which gives the cookies their moist texture and subtle sweetness, is complemented by the warming spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger from the pumpkin pie spice. Each spice adds its own distinctive note, and together they create the perfect pumpkin spice flavor that reminds you of the comfort of an autumn morning. The brown sugar icing, draped on top of each cookie, offers a deep caramel flavor that enhances the spiced notes, while giving a glossy, velvety finish that turns each bite into something decadent.

The Touch of Walnut Garnish

The chopped pecans on top of each cookie add more than just visual appeal. They provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the cookie and the smoothness of the icing. The toasted, slightly bitter flavor of the pecans cuts through the sweetness of the cookie and icing, creating a balanced flavor profile that is both sweet and savory. The nuttiness in the walnuts is also a reminder of fall, calling to mind the harvest season, and they give the cookies an earthy, wholesome depth.

Perfect for Any Fall Occasion

Whether you're hosting a cozy autumn gathering, prepping for Thanksgiving, or simply indulging in a weekend treat, these gluten-free pumpkin spice cookies are the ideal choice. Their soft texture and warm spices make them perfect for a chilly afternoon, paired with a cup of spiced chai or hot apple cider. They’re also a great addition to any fall-themed party, holiday gathering, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift. Their seasonal flavor makes them especially welcome around Halloween or Thanksgiving, and because they’re gluten-free, they can be enjoyed by everyone at the table, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Why These Cookies are a Fall Must-Have:

Soft and moist: Each bite is like a soft, spiced pillow of autumn bliss.
Warm spices: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger through pumpkin pie spice brings that comforting pumpkin spice flavor to life.
Brown sugar icing: A rich, caramel-like sweetness that makes each cookie feel indulgent.
Pecan garnish: A crunchy, nutty topping that adds depth and balance to the sweetness.
Perfect for gluten-free diets: No one has to miss out on this fall favorite, making it a crowd-pleaser for those with dietary restrictions.
Ideal for fall gatherings: Whether for a Thanksgiving table or a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies scream autumn in the best possible way.

What truly elevates these cookies is their ability to evoke nostalgia and warmth with each bite. The combination of pumpkin and spices brings back memories of crisp fall days, the air filled with the scent of burning leaves and the promise of cozy nights spent around a fire. These cookies are more than just a treat; they are a celebration of the season’s best flavors, a comforting reminder of home and hearth. Whether enjoyed on a chilly morning or as an after-dinner delight, each cookie offers a little moment of seasonal joy, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of fall spices and making every bite feel like a hug from the inside.

Let the baking begin!

TIPS AND TRICKS:

- Always preheat your oven.

- All refrigerated ingredients should be room temperature unless stated otherwise.

- Be sure completely melt the brown sugar in the butter when making the icing to get the smoothest results.

- A cookie scoop is the perfect tool for dividing the batter.

There’s no denying that these pumpkin spice cookies have all the charm of autumn wrapped up in one delicious bite. From the soft, cake-like texture to the sweet and spiced flavor, topped off with a glossy brown sugar icing and crunchy pecan garnish, they’re the perfect embodiment of everything we love about fall baking. Whether you enjoy them as a snack with coffee or serve them as part of a festive dessert spread, these cookies will transport you to a world where every corner is filled with the sweet scent of pumpkin and spice. They are, without a doubt, a seasonal indulgence that deserves a spot in every fall baking lineup.