Iced Pumpkin Cookies 🎃🍪

Embrace the flavors of fall with these delicious iced pumpkin cookies! They are soft, cakey, and packed with warm spices that are sure to evoke cozy autumn vibes. These cookies are delightful on their own but topped with a sweet glaze, they become a real treat! Perfect for gatherings, bake sales, or simply enjoying with a hot cup of tea or coffee. ☕️✨

Ingredients

For the cookies

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the glaze

• 2 cups confectioners' sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy.

   🥄 Make sure the butter is adequately softened for optimal texture—about room temperature but not melted!

4. Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla to the creamed mixture. Beat until smooth and well combined.

5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just incorporated.

   🌟 Take care not to overmix! This ensures your cookies stay soft and tender.

6. Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet, flattening them slightly.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

   ⏰ Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary depending on your oven!

8. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool.

9. To make the glaze, whisk together the confectioners' sugar, milk, melted butter, and remaining vanilla until smooth. Adjust the milk as necessary for drizzling consistency.

10. Drizzle the glaze over cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the dough for an extra layer of flavor!
• Chocolate Lover's Delight: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks before baking for a delightful twist.
• Make Ahead: These cookies freeze well! Freeze them without glaze, then thaw and glaze when ready to serve.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.

Enjoy these delightful cookies any time you want a taste of fall! 🍂🧡