chewy maple pumpkin cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are not just any cookies; they’re a warm hug in dessert form. The blend of maple syrup and pumpkin creates a sweet and buttery flavor that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a cozy night in, or just because you need a little something sweet, these cookies will bring joy to your kitchen.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. With simple, wholesome ingredients and a delightful aroma that fills your home while they bake, these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of maple and pumpkin creates a unique taste that screams fall.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious cookies without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone will love the chewy texture and sweet flavor—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can chill the dough overnight, making it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive celebration or an everyday snack, these cookies fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these chewy maple pumpkin cookies is simple with just a few wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 1/4 c (270g) all purpose flour
• 2 tsp pumpkin or chai spice blend
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 c (226g) European style unsalted butter, browned and cool but still liquid
• 1 c (200g) light brown sugar
• 1/3 c (79ml) pure maple syrup
• 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
• 1/2 c (125g) canned pumpkin, blotted
• 2 tsp (10ml) vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) maple extract, optional

For Coating

• 1/2 c (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin or chai spice blend

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to experiment based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Chocolate Chips: Mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet twist!
• Frosting Option: Top with a maple glaze for an indulgent treat.
• Spice It Up: Try adding more spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra kick.

How to Make chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Step 1: Make the Brown Butter

Start by preparing brown butter about an hour before you want to bake your cookies. This step adds depth of flavor to your cookies. Melt the butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. As it melts, keep whisking until it foams and brown bits start forming at the bottom. Once it reaches that beautiful golden color, pour it into a clean bowl and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin

While the butter cools, take about 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin puree and place it on paper towels laid across a shallow bowl. This helps absorb excess moisture from the pumpkin which ensures your cookies are chewy rather than cakey. Squeeze out any remaining water before using it in your cookie dough!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, your chosen spice blend, baking soda, and salt until everything is evenly mixed. This step ensures that all dry ingredients are well combined before adding them to the wet mixture.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooled brown butter with light brown sugar and pure maple syrup until smooth. Then add the room temperature egg yolk and mix until well combined—this adds richness to your dough!

Step 5: Add Pumpkin & Flavorings

Next up! Stir in your blotted pumpkin puree along with vanilla extract and optional maple extract. These flavors meld beautifully together—don’t skip this step!

Step 6: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

Gradually mix your dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those delicious chewiness!

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight if possible. Chilling helps develop flavors and gives you those perfect cookie shapes when baking.

Step 8: Bake Your Cookies

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line one or two large cookie sheets with parchment paper. Let the chilled dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before scooping—it makes rolling them easier!

Mix granulated sugar with spice seasoning for coating in another bowl. Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough balls and roll them in this spiced sugar mixture before placing them on prepared baking sheets spaced apart.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Bake for about 12-14 minutes until they look puffy but slightly underbaked—they’ll continue cooking off-oven! Cool on sheets briefly before transferring them onto wire racks. Enjoy those warm chewy delights fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips for Making chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure your chewy maple pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing the egg yolk and other ingredients to come to room temperature helps them combine more easily, resulting in a smoother dough and a better texture.

• Don’t skip the chilling step: Chilling the dough not only enhances the flavors but also allows the cookies to spread just right during baking, ensuring that chewy texture we all love.

• Monitor baking time closely: Ovens can vary significantly; keeping an eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking will help you catch that perfect moment before they overbake.

• Adjust spices to taste: Everyone has their preference when it comes to spice levels. Feel free to tweak the amount of pumpkin or chai spice blend based on your personal preference for a more customized flavor profile.

• Experiment with mix-ins: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the cookie dough. These extras can add delightful textures and flavors that complement the pumpkin and maple beautifully.

How to Serve chewy maple pumpkin cookies

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any gathering or celebration! Whether you’re hosting a cozy fall get-together or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, here are some serving suggestions that will make your cookies shine.

Garnishes

• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup over the cooled cookies adds an extra layer of sweetness and brings out those wonderful maple flavors.
• Sprinkle of cinnamon sugar: Dusting a bit of cinnamon sugar on top gives these cookies an inviting aroma and makes them look even more tempting.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Apple Slices: Crisp apple slices provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies. They also add a nice crunch!
• Vanilla Almond Milk: A glass of vanilla almond milk (or any dairy-free milk) pairs beautifully with these cookies, enhancing their sweetness without overwhelming them.
• Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea complements the pumpkin and spice flavors in these cookies perfectly, making for a cozy snack pairing.
• Creamy Pumpkin Soup: For something savory alongside your sweet treat, serve these cookies with a warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup. The flavors will harmonize wonderfully!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious chewy maple pumpkin cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for meal prep! The dough can be chilled overnight, and the baked cookies store beautifully, making them a great treat for busy days or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet and freezing until solid.
• Transfer the frozen dough balls to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container, where they can last up to 3 months.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (177°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these scrumptious chewy maple pumpkin cookies!

Can I use other sweeteners instead of brown sugar?

Yes! You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or a granulated sweetener of your choice. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I achieve perfectly chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

To ensure your chewy maple pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly, make sure not to overmix the dough and chill it properly before baking. This helps develop that delightful chewy texture!

Can I add chocolate chips to my chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

Absolutely! Adding semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips is a delicious twist that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin and maple flavors.

How long should I chill the cookie dough?

Chilling the dough for at least 8 hours or overnight is recommended. This step enhances the flavors and helps achieve a better texture when baked.

What can I use if I don’t have maple extract?

If you don’t have maple extract on hand, you can omit it entirely or substitute it with an additional teaspoon of vanilla extract. Your cookies will still taste delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these chewy maple pumpkin cookies as much as I do! They capture all the cozy flavors of fall and are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you bake them for a celebration or just as a special treat, I’m sure they’ll bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy baking!