chewy maple pumpkin cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, making them ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply wanting to indulge during a cozy evening at home, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. The combination of brown butter and pure maple syrup gives every bite a rich taste that’s hard to resist!

Baking these cookies is not only fun but also easy, allowing you to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen. Imagine the delightful aroma wafting through your home as they bake—it’s pure comfort food magic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and maple creates a flavor profile that’s perfectly balanced and reminiscent of autumn.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies are soft and chewy, making them ideal for dunking in your favorite hot beverage.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you’ll have everything you need on hand.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can chill the dough overnight, so they’re ready to bake whenever you are!
• Family-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved in rolling the cookie dough; it’s a great way to make memories together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are made from simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Gather everything you need before you start baking!

For the Cookies:

• 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

One of the best parts about baking is experimenting with flavors! This recipe is flexible, so feel free to make it your own.

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness!
• Nuts for Crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and nuttiness.
• Swap the Spice: If you’re not a fan of pumpkin spice, try using cinnamon or even a bit of ginger for a different twist.
• Frosted Fun: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and maple syrup after baking for an extra special treat.

How to Make chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Step 1: Make Brown Butter

Start by making your brown butter about an hour before mixing your cookie dough. This adds depth to the flavor! Melt your butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until it starts foaming and turns golden brown with little bits forming at the bottom. Pour it into a clean bowl and let it cool for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin

While your butter cools, it’s time to prepare the pumpkin. Place 2-3 paper towels in a shallow bowl and scoop about 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin onto them. This step helps remove excess moisture, ensuring your cookies don’t become soggy.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, chosen spice blend, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout your cookies.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooled brown butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup until fully combined. This mixture will be rich and fragrant—perfect for our cookie base!

Step 5: Add Egg Yolk & Pumpkin

Next up, stir in the egg yolk until it’s well incorporated. Then add in the prepared pumpkin along with vanilla and optional maple extracts. Mix until everything is uniform; this is where all those delicious fall flavors come together.

Step 6: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies!

Step 7: Chill Dough

Cover your dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight. This step helps enhance the flavors and gives you that perfect chewy texture.

Step 8: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line one or two large cookie sheets with parchment paper while letting your chilled dough sit out at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to scoop!

Step 9: Prepare Sugar Coating

Mix together granulated sugar with some additional spice from earlier until well combined. Adjust according to taste if needed—this will create that lovely outer layer on each cookie.

Step 10: Scoop Cookie Dough

Using a cookie scoop (about 2 inches), portion out your dough into balls. Roll each ball in the spiced sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 11: Bake Cookies

Place your sugar-coated balls onto prepared baking sheets about 2-3 inches apart. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 12-14 minutes. Halfway through baking (around minute 9-10), check on them; if they look puffier than desired, gently bang the pan on the oven rack to encourage spreading before finishing their bake.

Step 12: Cool Down

Once baked to perfection, let them cool on the cookie sheet for about 3-5 minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

And there you have it! These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are now ready to be devoured. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Baking these chewy maple pumpkin cookies is a joy, and with a few tips, you can make them even better!

• Use room temperature ingredients – This helps your dough come together smoothly and ensures even mixing, leading to consistent texture in your cookies.

• Chill the dough – Allowing the dough to chill for at least 8 hours (or overnight) not only enhances the flavors but also improves the cookie’s texture, making them chewy and delightful.

• Monitor baking time closely – Every oven is different! Start checking your cookies around the 9-minute mark to ensure they bake just right—perfectly chewy and not overdone.

• Experiment with spice blends – Feel free to adjust the spices in your sugar mixture or cookie dough to suit your taste. More cinnamon? A hint of nutmeg? Tailoring it to your preferences can elevate the flavor profile!

• Store properly – To keep your cookies fresh and chewy for longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They also freeze well if you want to save some for later!

How to Serve chewy maple pumpkin cookies

These cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy fall gathering or a simple afternoon treat. Presenting them beautifully can enhance the experience!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and an elegant finish.
• Chopped nuts – Sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Chai tea – The warm spices in chai complement the flavors of pumpkin and maple perfectly, making it an ideal pairing for these cookies.
• Apple cider – A glass of freshly pressed apple cider adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookie, enhancing that fall vibe.
• Vanilla ice cream – For a delicious dessert option, serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it’s pure bliss!
• Pumpkin spice latte – Sip on a cozy pumpkin spice latte alongside your cookies for a delightful seasonal treat that matches their flavors beautifully.

Enjoy baking these chewy maple pumpkin cookies, and don’t forget to share them with family and friends! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of fall any time! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them for later, ensuring you always have a delicious treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing

• Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label the bag with the date and type of cookie for easy reference.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
• Place frozen or refrigerated cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making chewy maple pumpkin cookies that might help clarify any concerns!

Can I make chewy maple pumpkin cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg yolk with a flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce. This will help bind the ingredients together.

How do I achieve chewier textures in my chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

To enhance chewiness, be sure not to over-bake your cookies. They should look slightly underdone when you take them out of the oven, as they will firm up while cooling.

What variations can I try with chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

You can experiment by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture. Each addition brings a unique twist!

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just ensure that it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your dough. Homemade puree can add an even fresher flavor!

Are chewy maple pumpkin cookies suitable for special diets?

These cookies can easily be adapted. Use gluten-free flour blends if needed, and substitute the butter with vegan options if you’re looking for dairy-free alternatives.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these chewy maple pumpkin cookies as much as I do! Their delightful combination of flavors captures the essence of fall in every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself (no judgment here!), these cookies are sure to bring warmth and joy into your home. Happy baking, and remember to savor each delicious moment!