Name: Glazed Pumpkin Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 tsp ground cloves; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; 1 egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze); 3 tbsp milk (for glaze); 1 tbsp melted butter (for glaze); 1 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze)

Why You’ll Love Glazed Pumpkin Cookies Recipe

These cookies are easy to make and bursting with warm pumpkin flavor and fall spices. The soft, moist texture and sweet glazed topping make them perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or just a cozy afternoon snack.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cookies:
all-purpose flour
leavening (baking powder and/or baking soda)
ground cinnamon
pumpkin puree
butter
granulated sugar
brown sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
salt

For the glaze:
powdered sugar
milk (or another liquid to thin the glaze)
vanilla extract or cinnamon (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients — flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10–15 minutes until edges are set and the centers are cooked through. Let cool completely.
To make the glaze, mix powdered sugar with milk and a splash of vanilla (or cinnamon) until smooth and pourable.
Spread or drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and allow it to set.

Servings and timing

These glazed pumpkin cookies yield about 40–60 cookies, depending on size.
Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
Bake Time: 10–15 minutes
Cooling & glazing: 10–20 minutes

Variations

Add-ins: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or mini chocolate chips for extra richness.
Spice it up: Use pumpkin pie spice instead of just cinnamon for a more complex flavor.
Frosting option: Swap the glaze for cream cheese frosting if you prefer a richer topping.
Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and double-check your baking powder or soda is gluten-free.
Dairy-free: Substitute dairy-free butter and plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. If glazed, placing parchment between layers helps prevent sticking. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze unglazed cookies for up to 2 months and add the glaze after thawing for the best results.

FAQs

What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?

Use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes — you can make the dough ahead and freeze it or bake the cookies and freeze them unglazed.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely — fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for extra texture.

How do I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

Add more powdered sugar to thicken or a splash more milk to thin until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I use a different spice mix?

Yes — swap the cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice or add nutmeg, ginger, or cloves for extra warmth.

Are these cookies cakey or chewy?

These cookies are typically soft and tender rather than crisp or chewy.

Can I substitute oil for butter?

You can, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly; butter adds richness and better structure.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes — substitute a gluten‑free flour blend and ensure your leavening agents are gluten‑free.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Do not overbake; remove them when the edges are set and the centers are just done.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes — they are delicious plain, or you can frost them with cream cheese frosting instead.

Conclusion

Glazed pumpkin cookies bring the flavors of fall to every bite — soft, spiced, and perfectly sweet. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, this classic treat is a must‑try for pumpkin lovers and cookie fans alike. Enjoy them fresh from the oven, paired with a warm drink, or packaged up as a gift for friends and family.