chewy maple pumpkin cookies

these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any fall gathering or cozy night in. With a unique blend of pumpkin flavor and maple sweetness, these cookies will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. The chewy texture and spiced sugar coating elevate them to a standout dessert, making them ideal for parties, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Fall Flavor: Each bite is infused with the comforting tastes of pumpkin and maple, making it a seasonal favorite.
• Chewy Texture: The secret lies in the brown butter and the chilling process, resulting in irresistibly chewy cookies.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, baking these cookies is accessible for everyone.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect as snacks, desserts, or gifts, these cookies fit various occasions effortlessly.
• Make Ahead Option: The dough can be prepared ahead of time and chilled overnight, saving you time on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this cookie recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cookie scoop
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills or mess.
• Cookie scoop: Helps create uniform cookie sizes for even baking and presentation.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.

Ingredients

To make these chewy maple pumpkin cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

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

How to Make chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

• Melt the butter in a clear heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat.
• Once it foams, whisk continuously until brown bits form; this should take about 5–7 minutes.
• Remove from heat, pour into a clean bowl, and let cool for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Blot the Pumpkin Puree

• Lay 2-3 paper towels across a wide shallow bowl.
• Scoop a generous 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree onto the towels to absorb excess water.
• Before using it in your recipe, gently squeeze the pumpkin to remove more moisture.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In another bowl, whisk together the flour, spice blend, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
• Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

• Stir together the cooled brown butter, light brown sugar, and pure maple syrup until fully mixed.
• Add in the egg yolk and stir until combined.
• Mix in the pumpkin puree along with vanilla extract and optional maple extract.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

• Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

• When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
• Line one or two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 8: Prepare Sugar Coating

• In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar with the remaining spice blend until well combined. Adjust spices to taste if desired.

Step 9: Scoop Cookies

• Using a cookie scoop (approximately two inches), scoop out portions of dough.
• Roll each scoop in the spiced sugar mixture before placing them on the prepared baking sheets about two to three inches apart.

Step 10: Bake Cookies

• Bake at 350°F (177°C) for about 12–14 minutes. Check around nine minutes; if puffier than desired, tap the baking sheet on the oven rack to flatten slightly before completing baking time.

Step 11: Cool Cookies

• Let cookies cool on the baking sheet on top of a cooling rack for about three to five minutes before transferring them to cool fully on the rack.

Enjoy your homemade chewy maple pumpkin cookies!

How to Serve chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Serving chewy maple pumpkin cookies can enhance your dining experience, especially during the fall season. These cookies are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for various occasions.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee or Tea: Pair your cookies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea to complement their flavors.
• Hot Chocolate: The sweetness of hot chocolate contrasts beautifully with the spices in the cookies.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Desserts: Include these cookies on a platter filled with other mini desserts like brownies and fruit tarts for variety.
• Seasonal Fruit: Add slices of apples or pears to provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Cookie Exchange: Bring these chewy maple pumpkin cookies to a cookie exchange; they will be a hit among friends and family.
• Thanksgiving Dessert Table: Serve them alongside pumpkin pie and other seasonal treats during Thanksgiving celebrations.

How to Perfect chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Achieving the perfect chewy texture and flavor in your chewy maple pumpkin cookies takes some careful steps. Follow these tips for success.

• Use Brown Butter: Browning the butter adds depth and nuttiness that enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 8 hours helps develop flavors and creates a better texture when baked.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Using precise measurements ensures consistent results every time you bake.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on baking time; taking them out just before they look fully set preserves their chewiness.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spice levels based on personal preference, adding more warmth if desired.
• Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.

Best Side Dishes for chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Chewy maple pumpkin cookies are delightful on their own, but serving them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm cookies for a comforting treat.
2. Whipped Cream: Top your cookie with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness and lightness.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
4. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This cozy drink enhances the fall flavors and makes for a perfect pairing during chilly days.
5. Cheese Board: Offering some mild cheeses provides a savory contrast to sweet cookies, making it an interesting combination.
6. Nut Mixes: A mix of roasted nuts adds crunch and complements the soft texture of the chewy cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking chewy maple pumpkin cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the chilling: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much. Always chill your dough for at least 8 hours for the perfect texture.
• Boldly ignore flour measurement: Using too much or too little flour can alter your cookie’s consistency. Always measure flour accurately, using a scale if possible.
• Boldly skip browning butter: Forgetting to brown the butter means missing out on a rich flavor. Take the time to brown your butter for deeper taste in your cookies.
• Boldly overlook pumpkin prep: Using wet pumpkin puree without blotting can make cookies soggy. Always blot excess moisture from canned pumpkin before adding it.
• Boldly rush baking time: Opening the oven door too often or not checking cookies can lead to over-baking. Keep an eye on them and use the recommended baking times as a guide.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chewy maple pumpkin cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Freezing chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Place cooled cookies in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper.

Reheating chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for softening.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about chewy maple pumpkin cookies that might help you.

How do I achieve chewy texture in chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

To achieve a chewy texture, ensure you don’t overmix your dough and chill it properly before baking.

Can I use other spices in these chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

Absolutely! You can customize your spice blend by adding nutmeg or allspice along with or instead of the pumpkin spice blend.

How long do chewy maple pumpkin cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Are chewy maple pumpkin cookies suitable for gift giving?

Yes! These cookies make wonderful gifts during fall celebrations. Just package them nicely in a decorative box or tin.

Final Thoughts

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different spices or mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for fall gatherings or simply enjoying at home!