Irresistible Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting

If you’re craving a treat that’s both indulgently soft and guilt-free, these Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting are exactly what your dessert dreams are made of. Moist, flavorful, and wonderfully spiced, these cookies combine the natural richness of pumpkin with a luscious salted maple frosting that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes. Whether for fall gatherings, cozy afternoons, or anytime you want a wholesome snack, this recipe hits every note for a delicious, satisfying bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Moist and Tender: Thanks to pumpkin puree, these cookies stay soft and chewy for days without any artificial additives.
• Natural Sweetness: Using maple syrup and a touch of coconut sugar gives the cookies a warm, caramelized flavor with fewer processed sugars.
• Perfectly Balanced Frosting: The salted maple frosting adds just the right hint of saltiness that enhances the sweetness without overpowering the pumpkin spice.
• Nutritious Ingredients: This recipe incorporates wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour and real pumpkin, making it a healthier choice than typical sugary cookies.
• Easy to Customize: You can adjust spices and toppings to suit your taste or dietary needs with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, natural, and work in harmony to create the ideal soft pumpkin cookie texture and that melt-in-your-mouth frosting finish. Each plays a specific role, whether it’s boosting flavor, enhancing moistness, or achieving beautiful golden color.

• Pumpkin Puree: Provides moisture, natural sweetness, and a rich orange hue packed with vitamin A.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Adds fiber and a subtle nuttiness while keeping the cookies soft.
• Coconut Sugar: A less refined sweetener that offers deeper flavor and gentle sweetness.
• Maple Syrup: The star of the frosting, delivering complex caramel flavors with natural sugars.
• Ground Cinnamon and Pumpkin Pie Spice: Infuse warm, aromatic spices that are essential for pumpkin treats.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly while maintaining softness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with sweet, floral notes.
• Greek Yogurt: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness and makes the cookies tender.
• Butter: Used in the frosting for creaminess and that indulgent mouthfeel.
• Sea Salt: Sprinkled in the frosting to punch up the flavor with a savory contrast.

Variations for Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so don’t hesitate to tweak it to your liking. Whether you want to boost nutrition, accommodate allergies, or try new flavor twists, these variations make it easy.

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute whole wheat flour with a gluten-free baking blend to enjoy these cookies without gluten worries.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use a flax egg, plant-based yogurt, and vegan butter to make this recipe fully plant-based and equally delicious.
• Nutty Boost: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for extra crunch and flavor depth.
• Spice Remix: Try adding nutmeg or cloves alongside cinnamon for a more complex spice profile.
• Maple Drizzle Only: Skip the frosting and simply drizzle warm maple syrup on the cookies for a lighter option.

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How to Make Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt.

Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender and soft.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and scoop dough onto the tray in rounded tablespoons, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.

Step 4: Make the Salted Maple Frosting

While the cookies cool, beat softened butter with maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt until light and fluffy. Adjust sweetness or saltiness to your preference.

Step 5: Frost and Serve

Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously spread or pipe the salted maple frosting on top. Serve immediately or store for later indulgence.

Pro Tips for Making Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: For the best texture and flavor, opt for homemade or canned pure pumpkin rather than pumpkin pie filling.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are set but centers still look slightly undercooked to retain softness.
• Chill Frosting Before Spreading: Keeping the frosting cool helps it hold shape and prevents melting on warm cookies.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use butter and yogurt at room temperature to achieve a smooth dough and silky frosting.
• Experiment With Spices: Adjust the amount and combination of spices to suit your personal taste buds.

How to Serve Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting

Garnishes

Top your frosted cookies with toasted pumpkin seeds, a light sprinkle of cinnamon, or flaky sea salt to add texture and a little extra flavor magic.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a warm chai latte, a creamy cup of vanilla almond milk, or a refreshing glass of apple cider for a perfectly cozy treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack several cookies with frosting in between for a layered dessert, or cut them into smaller bites to serve as party finger foods with decorative toothpicks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain softness and freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cookies by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months; frost after thawing.

Reheating

Warm cookies gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before frosting for that just-baked feeling and enhanced softness.

FAQs

Are Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can easily substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free blend to make them gluten-free without compromising texture.

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Yes, canned pure pumpkin works perfectly well and is a convenient option to keep this recipe quick and easy.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies remain fresh and delicious for about three days.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for vegan butter, use a flax egg instead of regular eggs if used, and plant-based yogurt for a fully vegan treat.

What’s the best way to frost the cookies?

Make sure cookies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting; use a piping bag for neat designs or a spatula for rustic charm.

Final Thoughts

These Healthy Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Salted Maple Frosting are your new go-to for a deliciously wholesome dessert that feels indulgent but stays true to clean eating. Moist, flavorful, and wonderfully spiced, they bring warmth and comfort with every bite. Whether you bake them for yourself or share with loved ones, these cookies are sure to become a favorite that brightens your day and satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt. Give them a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

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