Name: Pumpkin Pie Spice Cookies with Optional Icing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 24 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup white sugar; 1 cup all purpose flour (*see notes); ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp cinnamon; 2.5-3 tsp pumpkin spice (add extra for extra flavor!); ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional*); 1 cup old fashioned oats; 1 egg; ½ cup pumpkin purée; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ⅓ cup coconut oil (melted); ½ cup powdered sugar; ½ tsp almond milk or water (* you may need a little more depending on thickness desired)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 10 reviews

Nothing says cozy autumn quite like a batch of warm, fragrant Pumpkin Pie Spice Cookies with Optional Icing Recipe. These cookies are a delightful blend of pumpkin purée, comforting spices, and chewy oats, creating a texture and taste that feels like a hug in dessert form. The optional icing adds a sweet, creamy touch that elevates these cookies from everyday treats to something truly special. If you’re craving autumn flavors with a simple, homemade touch, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to bake and share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows several ingredients for baking arranged on a white marbled surface. There is a small gray bowl on the top left filled with bright orange pumpkin purée with a smooth texture. Below it, a silver measuring cup holds light brown oats that look dry and flaky. To the right of the pumpkin purée is a small white flower-shaped bowl with a brown egg in it. Below this, another white flower-shaped bowl holds white baking powder and brown spices mixed together. Next to it on the right, a small white bowl contains dark brown vanilla extract with a shiny surface. Below that, a silver measuring cup holds white granulated sugar to the right. At the bottom right, a silver measuring cup is filled with white all-purpose flour with a soft powdery look. At the bottom left, a white bowl is filled with white powdered sugar which looks fluffy and light. Near the center bottom, a gold measuring cup filled with clear, golden coconut oil shines with a liquid texture. All items are neatly spaced and clearly labeled. The photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for these cookies is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in crafting that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From warming spices to wholesome oats, every element comes together seamlessly to create cookies that are both comforting and delicious.

¾ cup white sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the spices.
1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure to the cookies; be sure to measure accurately!
½ tsp baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a soft, tender bite.
½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
1 tsp cinnamon: A classic spice that brings warmth and depth.
2.5-3 tsp pumpkin spice: The star of the show, loaded with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger for that perfect autumn vibe.
¼ tsp nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle hint of nuttiness and extra spice complexity.
1 cup old fashioned oats: Contributes chewy texture and wholesome goodness.
1 egg: Binds everything together and adds richness.
½ cup pumpkin purée: Provides moistness, flavor, and those vibrant fall colors.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and earthy tones of pumpkin and spices.
⅓ cup coconut oil (melted): A dairy-free fat that adds moisture and a subtle tropical note.
½ cup powdered sugar: The key ingredient in the optional icing that adds sweetness and a silky finish.
½ tsp almond milk or water: Used to thin the icing for perfect drizzling or dipping; adjust as needed.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Spice Cookies with Optional Icing Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, salt, pumpkin spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, oats, and sugar. This step ensures your spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed, which is key for consistent flavor and texture throughout each cookie.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Create a well in the center of your dry mixture and add the wet ingredients: melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, pumpkin purée, and the egg. Stir gently but thoroughly with a spoon until everything is just combined. The pumpkin purée lends moisture, making the dough soft and slightly sticky—don’t worry, this is exactly right!

Step 3: Form and Bake the Cookies

Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You can put them directly on the sheet if you prefer, but parchment helps prevent sticking. Bake for 12-14 minutes; you’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn golden and the centers feel set but still soft.

Step 4: Cool Before Icing

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This resting period is important as it helps the cookies firm up and keeps them from falling apart when you add the optional icing. Patience here is rewarded with cookies that hold together beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare the Icing

While the cookies cool, combine powdered sugar with almond milk (or water) in a small bowl. Whisk briskly until smooth. If the icing is too thick, add a tiny bit more liquid; too thin, add more powdered sugar gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This flexible icing allows you to customize how indulgent you want your cookies to be.

Step 6: Apply the Icing

Once your cookies are completely cool, you can either dunk them gently into the icing for a full coating or drizzle the icing over the tops with a spoon or piping bag for a delicate touch. Let the icing set for a few minutes before serving to create that perfect sweet crust.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Spice Cookies with Optional Icing Recipe

The image shows several round oatmeal cookies with a chunky texture in a light golden brown color. Each cookie is topped with a thick layer of smooth white icing that drips artistically down the sides. The cookies rest on a tan parchment paper that is sprinkled with raw oats and a dusting of fine cinnamon powder, all placed on a white marbled surface. The close-up view captures the rough oat flakes and the creamy icing’s glossy finish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or finely chopped toasted pecans on top of the icing for an added crunch and visual appeal. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also mimic a soft dusting of autumn snow, making your cookies even more inviting.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of hot apple cider, chai tea, or a creamy latte. The warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor complement these beverages perfectly, turning your snack into a cozy ritual.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your cookies on a rustic wooden board or a festive autumn-themed platter for gatherings. Tie stacks of the cookies with a cinnamon stick and a ribbon for charming homemade gifts that anyone will adore. You could even sandwich two cookies together with cream cheese frosting for a special treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They hold their softness and spice for up to five days, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the week or sharing with friends.

Freezing

If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, freeze un-iced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight at room temperature before icing.

Reheating

Warm your cookies slightly in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low oven (around 300 degrees) for five minutes to revive that freshly baked softness. This little extra step makes them taste like you just pulled them from the oven!

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin purée for this recipe?

Yes, canned pumpkin purée works perfectly in this recipe and is a convenient, reliable option that gives you that delicious pumpkin flavor without the extra effort of preparing fresh pumpkin.

Is the optional icing necessary? Can I skip it?

The icing is totally optional! The cookies are wonderful on their own with warm spices and chewy oats. The icing adds a sweet contrast, but skipping it keeps things simpler and reduces sweetness.

Can I substitute the coconut oil with other fats?

Absolutely! You can use melted butter or a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil instead of coconut oil, but keep in mind it will slightly change the flavor and texture.

How do I make the cookies more festive for a holiday party?

Try adding festive sprinkles on top of the icing before it sets, or sandwich the cookies with a cinnamon cream cheese filling for a show-stopping treat everyone will love.

What if I don’t have old fashioned oats? Can I use quick oats instead?

While old fashioned oats provide a nice chew and texture, quick oats can be used in a pinch. Just be aware the texture will be a bit softer and less chewy.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give the Pumpkin Pie Spice Cookies with Optional Icing Recipe a try this season. They’re easy to make, bursting with cozy autumn flavors, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you dunk them in a warm drink or pack them as a sweet surprise, these cookies bring the spirit of fall right into your kitchen and heart.