Spiced Pumpkin Crumb Cookies with Vanilla Icing Drizzle

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Introduction
Fall in love with the warm, aromatic charm of Spiced Pumpkin Crumb Cookies with Vanilla Icing Drizzle. Crispy on the edges, tender in the center, and crowned with a sweet vanilla icing, these cookies are the perfect balance of autumn spices and comforting sweetness. The gentle notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves mingle with rich pumpkin puree, creating a flavor that feels like a cozy hug in every bite. Whether baking for friends, family, or holiday gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress. You’ll learn how to master the perfect crumbly texture, craft the smooth icing, and assemble these seasonal delights with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spiced Pumpkin Crumb Cookies with Vanilla Icing Drizzle combine irresistible textures and flavors in every bite. The crumbly topping adds a satisfying crunch, contrasting with the soft, tender pumpkin-spiced base. Each cookie bursts with autumn flavor from cinnamon, ginger, and a hint of cloves, creating a sweet-and-spicy sensation that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. The drizzled vanilla icing not only enhances sweetness but also adds a visually appealing finish. This recipe is simple enough for beginner bakers but flexible enough to customize. Its aroma will fill your kitchen, evoking the perfect cozy fall afternoon. You’ll enjoy both the baking process and the delightful end result that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo.

Ingredients

1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree, preferably homemade or canned
1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour (for crumb topping)
1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar (for crumb topping)
1/4 cup (57 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed (for crumb topping)

For Vanilla Icing Drizzle:

1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pro Tips

Perfect Pumpkin Texture: Use well-drained pumpkin puree to prevent soggy cookies. If using canned, ensure no excess liquid.
Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle and prevent spreading while baking.
Crumble Consistency: Cut cold butter into the crumb mixture using a pastry cutter or fingers until the texture resembles coarse crumbs; this ensures a crunchy, contrasting topping.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Stir in the pumpkin puree until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet pumpkin mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Prepare the Crumb Topping
Combine the flour, brown sugar, and cubed cold butter in a small bowl. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to blend until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.

Step 5: Assemble the Cookies
Scoop 2-tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Sprinkle a generous amount of crumb topping over each cookie, pressing lightly to adhere.

Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the crumbs are set. Avoid overbaking for a tender center.

Step 7: Cool
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Vanilla Icing Drizzle
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk if necessary—should be thick but pourable.

Step 9: Drizzle and Serve
Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies. Let set for 10–15 minutes before serving for a perfect finish.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum for structure.
Spice Twist: Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the dough for a more complex flavor.
Nutty Upgrade: Mix in 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and richness in each bite.

Storage and Serving

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze un-iced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat gently before drizzling with icing. Serve these cookies with a warm latte, chai tea, or hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy experience. They also make a delightful addition to a holiday cookie platter or as a sweet gift for friends and family.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly, just ensure it’s well-drained.

2. How do I make the crumb topping crunchy?
Use cold butter and avoid overmixing to maintain a coarse texture.

3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, cookie dough can be chilled overnight, and baked cookies can be stored for several days.

4. How thick should the vanilla icing be?
The icing should be thick enough to hold its shape but pourable for easy drizzling.

5. Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips for a sweet variation.

Conclusion

This Spiced Pumpkin Crumb Cookies with Vanilla Icing Drizzle is comfort food at its finest — warm, aromatic, and perfectly balanced between crumbly edges and tender centers. It’s the kind of treat that fills your kitchen with the cozy scents of fall and makes holiday gatherings or quiet afternoons feel extra special. With its irresistible texture contrast and sweet vanilla drizzle, these cookies are a seasonal delight that everyone will love.