Amish Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting – 10x Better Than Store-Bought

There’s something nostalgic about the aroma of warm cookies drifting through the kitchen on a crisp fall day. Today, I’m sharing my go-to recipe for Amish Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting, a seasonal favorite that always brings a smile. These cookies are soft, pillowy, and perfectly spiced, then topped with a rich caramel glaze. This old-fashioned treat, inspired by Amish baking traditions, uses simple pantry staples to deliver unforgettable flavor. Whether you’re planning a weekend bake or prepping for a holiday table, Amish Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting are a sweet way to celebrate autumn in every bite.

The Cozy Charm of Amish Pumpkin Cookies

Old-fashioned roots, unbeatable flavor

My love for Amish-style baking started with a visit to Pennsylvania’s heartland years ago. At a small roadside stand, I tasted my first batch of Amish Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting. That soft texture, layered with warm spices and a brown sugar caramel topping, was unlike anything I’d had before. These cookies don’t rely on trends—they’re timeless. They use fresh pumpkin, classic baking spices, and a simple mixing method that anyone can follow. No shortcuts, no fuss—just true homemade flavor. It’s the kind of recipe passed down for generations and still just as loved today.

The soft texture that wins hearts

What makes Amish Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting so special? It’s the texture. Thanks to the blend of pumpkin purée and butter, you get a moist, cake-like cookie that practically melts in your mouth. The balance of baking soda, baking powder, and spice gives it lift without heaviness. And that frosting? A buttery, brown sugar glaze that clings like a sweet little hug. If you’ve tried our other pumpkin bar cookie recipes or pumpkin cookie recipes made with Crisco, this one will feel right at home in your fall baking rotation.

Secrets to the Perfect Pumpkin Cookie Base

Choosing the right pumpkin for flavor and texture

One of the most important steps in making Amish Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting is using the right kind of pumpkin. Canned pumpkin purée is the traditional go-to because it provides consistent texture and rich flavor, making your cookies soft and moist every time. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use fresh pumpkin—but make sure it’s drained well to avoid soggy dough. The pumpkin doesn’t just add moisture; it acts as a natural sweetener and gives your cookies that earthy, autumn essence we all crave. If you enjoy pumpkin-forward baked goods, you’ll probably love these pumpkin cheesecake cookies too.

Spice balance: not too much, not too little

The real magic of Amish Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting comes from the spice blend. Cinnamon is the dominant note, while ground ginger and cloves provide warmth and complexity. If you’ve ever tried overly spiced cookies that taste more like potpourri than dessert, you’ll appreciate how balanced this recipe is. For a more delicate touch, try cutting the cloves in half. It’s this spice profile that sets Amish cookies apart from other pumpkin desserts like maple pumpkin cookies, which lean more into sweet and syrupy tones. Every bite of these cookies feels cozy without being overwhelming—a balance that’s harder to achieve than it sounds.

The base makes the cookie, but the frosting makes it unforgettable. That’s why in Part 3, we’ll dig into frosting options, from classic caramel to cream cheese, so you can make these cookies truly your own.

Frosting That Brings It All Together

Why caramel frosting is the ultimate topper
When it comes to Amish Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting, the caramel topping isn’t just a finishing touch—it’s the showstopper. Made with butter, brown sugar, milk, and powdered sugar, it melts into the soft surface of each cookie, creating a glossy, flavorful coating. The pinch of salt in the frosting brings out the sweetness of the pumpkin and the warmth of the spices in every bite. It’s silky, rich, and quick to whip up in under 10 minutes. Think of it as the classic pairing for pumpkin cookies—especially if you want a crowd-pleaser without the tang of cream cheese.

Exploring cream cheese and other frostings
That said, not everyone leans toward caramel. Some bakers swear by cream cheese frosting for their Amish Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting—and it’s easy to see why. The slight tang of cream cheese balances the sweetness and adds body to each bite. For a fall twist, you could even try a maple cream cheese version. If you’re feeling inspired, our pumpkin oatmeal cookies also work beautifully with this type of frosting. Prefer something with a bit of texture? A browned butter glaze over warm pumpkin chocolate chip cookies creates a nutty contrast you’ll love.

Whether you stick with the classic caramel frosting or switch it up, each variation brings something special. And the best part? These frostings are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep. In the next section, we’ll explore tips for baking, storing, and serving these cookies for maximum impact.

Baking, Storing, and Serving the Perfect Batch

Baking tips for consistent results

The secret to perfect Amish Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting lies in precision. Always start with room temperature butter and eggs—they incorporate better and make for a fluffier dough. Once you’ve mixed in the pumpkin purée, the batter will be soft, almost like a cake. That’s what you want. Use a cookie scoop to ensure even portions, and line your baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Bake just until the edges are set; overbaking leads to dryness, which takes away from the cookie’s soft charm. If you enjoy tender bakes, you might also love our pumpkin zucchini bread for its moist texture and earthy flavor.

Storage and serving suggestions

Once frosted, allow the cookies to set completely before storing. Stack them with parchment between layers to keep the frosting intact. They stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days—or up to a week in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze the cookies unfrosted, then thaw and frost as needed. These Amish Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting make perfect gifts too. Wrap them in parchment and tie them with twine for a cozy, homemade treat. Looking for a quick pumpkin option for busy mornings? Our 2-ingredient pumpkin bread is as effortless as it gets.

However you serve them—warm from the oven or tucked into a lunchbox—these cookies are a little bite of fall nostalgia, perfect with coffee, cider, or a chilly evening.

FAQ About Amish pumpkin cookies

A Cookie Worth Sharing

Few treats capture the warmth of fall like Amish Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting. With their soft texture, balanced spices, and rich caramel topping, they deliver comfort in every bite. Whether you stick with tradition or add your own twist, these cookies will quickly become a seasonal favorite. They’re perfect for gifting, gatherings, or quiet moments with a cup of tea. So go ahead—bake a batch, frost generously, and enjoy the simple joy of old-fashioned baking at its best.

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