Pumpkin Cookies with Penuche Frosting

Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease cookie sheets.

Step 2
Make the cookies: In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup shortening, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and white sugar. Mix in pumpkin, egg, and vanilla. Sift flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt together into a bowl; mix into the creamed mixture. Stir in walnuts. Drop dough by heaping spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheets.

Step 3
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to wire racks to cool.

Step 4
Meanwhile, make the frosting: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 3 tablespoons butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar. Bring to a boil, then cook and stir for 1 minute, or until slightly thickened. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly, about 10 minutes.

Step 5
Add milk and beat until smooth. Gradually stir in 2 cups confectioners' sugar until frosting has reached desired consistency. Spread on cooled cookies.