Soft & Chewy Iced Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

As the leaves begin to turn and a crispness fills the air, it’s time to embrace the comforting flavors of fall with a delicious batch of Soft & Chewy Iced Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. Picture this: a busy afternoon, the kids are home from school, and the house is filled with pumpkin spice aroma. Not only do these cookies satisfy your sweet tooth, but they also bring the warmth of the season right into your kitchen. Plus, they’re the perfect treat for those who are always on the go!

Why You Will Love This Soft & Chewy Iced Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Life can be hectic. Between juggling work, family, and social commitments, finding the time to bake can feel overwhelming. But fear not! This recipe for Soft & Chewy Iced Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies is designed to help you whip up a batch quickly and easily without sacrificing flavor or texture. They come together in one bowl, make use of nutritious oats, and are infused with the rich taste of pumpkin and warm spices.

What makes these cookies stand out is their soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth. The ice adds a delightful sweetness and enhances the pumpkin flavor, making them a perfect companion for your afternoon coffee or tea. Not only are they delicious, but they also provide a great option for a wholesome snack that can fuel your day.

Let’s dive deeper into what makes this cookie recipe special, along with some practical cooking tips and health benefits that ensure you’ll want to keep making these time and time again.

Practical Tips / Cooking Tips

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs and butter for better emulsification, which makes for softer cookies.
• Chill the Dough: For an even chewier texture, consider chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies from the oven as soon as the edges are set while the centers are still soft. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

These cookies not only taste great but also come with some interesting health benefits. Here’s what you can expect:

• Oats: They are a great source of fiber, which helps with digestion and can keep you full longer.
• Pumpkin: Rich in vitamins A and C, pumpkin supports your immune system and skin health.
• Lower Sugar: With the option to use natural sweeteners like maple syrup instead of refined sugar, you can enjoy a lower-sugar treat.
• Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are not only flavorful but also possess anti-inflammatory properties.

By incorporating these ingredients into your holiday baking, you can create scrumptious treats that are also mindful of your health goals.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients (with substitution options in table format)

Ingredient	Substitution
1 cup all-purpose flour	Whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour
1 cup rolled oats	Quick oats (will alter texture slightly)
½ cup unsalted butter, softened	Coconut oil or vegan butter
1 cup pumpkin puree	Applesauce for a lighter option
¾ cup brown sugar	Maple syrup or coconut sugar
1 large egg	Flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water)
1 tsp baking soda	No substitute necessary
½ tsp salt	No substitute necessary
1 tsp cinnamon	Pumpkin pie spice blend
½ tsp nutmeg	All-spice

Instructions (step-by-step with cooking tips)

Now, let’s get to the exciting part—baking! Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Soft & Chewy Iced Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies:

1. Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and pumpkin puree until smooth and fluffy.
3. Add egg: Beat in the egg until fully incorporated. If using a flax egg, add the mixed flaxseed meal and water at this point.
4. Sift dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Combine mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Form cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remember, they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
8. Cool down: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
9. Ice (optional): Once cooled, drizzle with an icing made of powdered sugar and your choice of milk until reaching the desired consistency.

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh and shared with loved ones, but storing them can keep the fun going!

FAQ

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes! To freeze, let the cookies cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months. Just thaw and enjoy!

What can I use if I don’t have oats?

If you don’t have oats, you can use additional flour as a substitute. However, oats add a unique texture and health benefits, so consider using crushed cereal or ground nuts as an alternative.

How do I store these cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, refrigerating the cookies is also an option.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and replace the egg with a flax egg or chia egg.

What can I do if the icing is too thick?

If you find that your icing is too thick, simply add a tiny bit of milk or water, one teaspoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency.

Conclusion with light call to action

These Soft & Chewy Iced Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful addition to your fall baking repertoire. With warm spices, wholesome ingredients, and a chewy texture, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re enjoying them with friends or savoring them while preparing for the hustle and bustle of the season, each bite is a reminder of the joy of baking.

So why not give this recipe a try? Enhance your busy life with something homemade and heartfelt, and share the love by gifting a batch to friends or family. Happy baking!

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