Amish Recipe for Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting – A Cozy Fall Treat

Meta Description (126 characters): Soft Amish pumpkin cookies topped with caramel frosting. An old-fashioned recipe for fall that’s cozy, moist, and family-friendly.

When the cool air of fall rolls in, my baking spirit wakes up. This Amish Recipe for Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting is one of those recipes that instantly warms the heart. These cookies are soft, spiced just right, and finished with a caramel-like frosting that soaks beautifully into the tops. They’re old-fashioned in the best way—simple, wholesome, and made to share.

I first baked these with my grandmother, who always kept a handwritten recipe card tucked inside her cookbook. Every bite tastes like home, and it’s one of those desserts that brings people around the kitchen table. If you’re searching for the best Amish recipe for pumpkin cookies with frosting, you just found it.

Why You’ll Love This Amish Pumpkin Cookie Recipe

These cookies aren’t fancy, but that’s exactly why they’re so good. Here’s why they’ll be a hit in your kitchen:

• Old-fashioned flavor – made with simple pantry staples.
• Moist and tender – pumpkin purée keeps them soft.
• Caramel frosting – rich, buttery, and melts into the cookie.
• Family-friendly – easy steps perfect for baking with kids.
• Great for gatherings – a big batch that keeps well.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookies

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup butter, softened (1 stick)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin purée (about 1 ½ cups)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

For the Caramel Frosting

• ½ cup butter (1 stick)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup milk
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Step-by-Step: Amish Recipe for Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease or line cookie sheets.

2. Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together both sugars and softened butter until creamy. Add eggs, pumpkin, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.

3. Add Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet until just combined.

4. Scoop and Bake

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto prepared cookie sheets. Bake for 11–13 minutes, or until edges are firm. Cool cookies on a wire rack.

5. Make the Caramel Frosting

• Melt butter in a saucepan. Add brown sugar and boil for 2 minutes, whisking.
• Add milk and salt. Bring back to a boil.
• Remove from heat. Cool slightly, then beat in powdered sugar until smooth.

6. Frost the Cookies

Spread frosting generously over cooled cookies. Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers.

Baking Tips for Amish Pumpkin Cookies

I’ve learned a few tricks along the way:

• Use room temperature eggs and butter for easier mixing.
• Frost while still slightly warm so the caramel frosting sets beautifully.
• Add nuts (like pecans or walnuts) to the frosting for crunch.
• Double the recipe for holidays or bake sales.
• Storage: 2 days at room temp, 1 week in fridge, or freeze up to 2 months.

Variations on This Old-Fashioned Cookie Recipe

This recipe is classic, but you can make it your own:

• Easy Amish Recipe for Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting – Follow the base recipe for the simplest version.
• Old-Fashioned Amish Recipe for Pumpkin Cookies – Add a touch more cloves and cinnamon for that authentic spice blend.
• Healthier Twist – Replace half the butter with applesauce for a lighter option.
• Different Frosting – Swap caramel for cream cheese frosting if you prefer tangy over sweet.

FAQs About Amish Recipe for Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting

What makes Amish cookies unique?

They focus on simplicity and tradition—no complicated steps, just delicious results.

Can I make these without frosting?

Yes, but the frosting adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that makes them shine.

Why are my cookies too cakey?

Pumpkin cookies naturally bake up soft and cake-like. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes. Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months. Add frosting after thawing for best results.

What’s the best frosting for pumpkin cookies?

Caramel frosting is the classic Amish choice, but cream cheese is a great alternative.

Serving Ideas for Amish Pumpkin Cookies

These cookies are delightful on their own, but here are some serving ideas:

• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea.
• Add to a fall cookie tray alongside sugar cookies and gingersnaps.
• Serve with vanilla ice cream for a warm-and-cold treat.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Try this moist and flavorful pumpkin banana loaf
• Bake a fruity twist on classic cookies like peach cobbler cookies
• Make easy-to-make mini butter cookies with only three ingredients

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If you bake this Amish Recipe for Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting, tag me @RitzyRecipes on Instagram or Pinterest. I’d love to see your kitchen creations!

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