Jack-O'-Lantern Pumpkin Cookies

INGREDIENTS:

For the Cookies:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp Dark Chocolate Aged Balsamic Vinegar
• 2 tbsp Navel Orange Whole Fruit Premium Olive Oil

For the Frosting:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1-2 tbsp milk
• Orange food coloring
• Black icing for decorating

INSTRUCTIONS:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the pumpkin puree, egg, Dark Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar, and Navel Orange Olive Oil. Mix until smooth.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Cover the dough and chill for 30 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
• In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, butter, and milk until smooth. Add a few drops of orange food coloring and mix well. Adjust the consistency with more milk or sugar as needed.
• Spread the orange frosting over the cooled cookies. Use black icing to create fun pumpkin faces and designs.
• Let the frosting set before serving or packaging. These cookies are perfect for a Halloween celebration!

Tip: For a little extra flair, drizzle some additional melted dark chocolate over the cookies before decorating!