Imagine sinking your teeth into a cookie that’s soft, warm, and bursting with the fragrant spices of fall—this is the magic of Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter Frosting. With each bite, the delightful blend of pumpkin and warm spices dances on your palate, evoking cozy family gatherings and serene, crisp evenings. As a fun fact, pumpkin cookies became a popular treat during the harvest season when pumpkins were abundant, turning a simple ingredient into an adored dessert. The history of these cookies is as rich as their flavor! If you’ve ever tried my popular Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies, you’ll see how this recipe mirrors its comforting nature while bringing a unique twist. Get ready to make a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also invites happy memories around the table!
What is Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter Frosting?
So, you might wonder, what exactly are these Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter Frosting? It’s a delightful concoction of pumpkin puree blended into a chewy cookie base, all topped off with a luscious, nutty brown butter frosting that’s simply irresistible! Have you ever thought about how such a classic treat got its name? One might picture a troupe of pumpkins signing opera in a field, but in reality, it’s about taking this humble vegetable and making it the star of the dessert show! It’s said that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these cookies will definitely pave the route! Why not whip up a batch this weekend and see if they become your family’s go-to dessert?
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter Frosting
Here are three compelling reasons to whip up a batch of Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter Frosting. First, the texture is simply divine! The cookies have a moist, chewy center while the brown butter frosting adds a silky finish that melts in your mouth. Secondly, baking at home is a fantastic way to save money; making your treats allows you to skip the pricey coffee shop options that often lack that homemade feel. Lastly, the flavors! With hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, these cookies remind you of the coziest moments. Compare that with a typical chocolate chip cookie—the warm spices elevate these cookies to a whole new level. Now, ready to create some cookie magic?
How to Make Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter Frosting
Quick Overview
Making Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter Frosting is incredibly easy, allowing even beginners to feel like kitchen pros! The delightful balance of soft cookies and creamy frosting gives you the best of both worlds. And with just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll be indulging in this sweet treat in no time!
Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter Frosting
Here is everything you will need to create your delicious pumpkin cookies:
- For the Cookies:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Brown Butter Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for browning)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (as needed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and softened butter; beat until creamy.
- Add in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix!
- Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- While cookies cool, prepare your frosting by browning the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown butter with powdered sugar, adding milk as needed, to achieve a smooth consistency. Stir in vanilla.
- Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread an even layer of brown butter frosting on top and enjoy!
Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter Frosting
- Substitutions: If you’re looking to make this recipe even more special, consider substituting half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor!
- Timing: Make sure not to overbake your cookies; they should still look soft in the center when removed from the oven, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid using excessive amounts of flour; ensure your measurements are accurate. If you accidentally add too much, your cookies may turn out dry.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter Frosting, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just allow your cookies to come to room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to regain that delightful softness.
Now that you’re armed with everything you need to create these mouthwatering Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter Frosting, it’s time to turn on the oven and get baking! Your family and friends will surely appreciate this delightful treat, and you may just want to keep the recipe a secret! Enjoy!

Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter Frosting
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and softened butter; beat until creamy.
- Add in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix!
- Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- While cookies cool, prepare your frosting by browning the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown butter with powdered sugar, adding milk as needed, to achieve a smooth consistency. Stir in vanilla.
- Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread an even layer of brown butter frosting on top and enjoy!

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