chewy maple pumpkin cookies

these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are the perfect treat to embrace the cozy flavors of fall. With a delightful blend of spices and a rich maple syrup base, they are ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying at home. The chewy texture and sweet coating make these cookies a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and pumpkin creates a unique taste that celebrates the essence of autumn.
• Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a satisfying chewiness, making these cookies a delightful treat for all ages.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy afternoons, or as an everyday snack.
• Spiced Sweetness: The added spice blend gives an aromatic touch that enhances the cookie’s flavor profile.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process. Having everything ready will help you create these chewy maple pumpkin cookies without any hiccups.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie scoop
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowls: Essential for mixing dough evenly and efficiently.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.

Ingredients

To make these delightful chewy maple pumpkin cookies, gather the following ingredients:

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 the Coating

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

How to Make chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Step 1: Make the Brown Butter

To start off your chewy maple pumpkin cookies:
1. Melt your butter in a clear heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat.
2. Once it begins to foam, whisk continuously until brown bits form.
3. Remove from heat and pour into a clean bowl to cool for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Puree

While your butter is cooling:
1. Lay 2-3 paper towels across a wide shallow bowl.
2. Scoop 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin onto the towels to absorb excess moisture.
3. Squeeze out any additional water before using.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, spice blend, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Stir together cooled brown butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup until fully combined.
2. Add the egg yolk and mix well.
3. Incorporate the pumpkin puree along with vanilla and optional maple extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
– Stir gently until just combined without overmixing.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Cover your dough with plastic wrap:
– Chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 7: Preheat Oven & Prepare Cookie Sheets

When ready to bake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Line one or two large cookie sheets with parchment paper.
3. Allow chilled dough to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Step 8: Prepare Sugar Coating

Mix together:
– Granulated sugar with remaining spice blend in a small bowl until well combined.

Step 9: Scoop & Roll Cookies

Using a cookie scoop:
1. Portion out dough balls about two inches apart on prepared sheets.
2. Roll each ball in the spiced sugar mixture before placing on sheets.

Step 10: Bake

Bake at 350°F (177°C):
– For about 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown around edges.

Step 11: Cool

Let cookies cool on baking sheets on top of a cooling rack for about 3-5 minutes before transferring them to cool completely on the rack.

Enjoy your freshly baked chewy maple pumpkin cookies!

How to Serve chewy maple pumpkin cookies

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for any occasion, bringing warmth and sweetness to your gatherings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement their rich flavor.

With a Warm Beverage

• Hot Apple Cider: The spices in the cider enhance the cookie’s flavors, making for a cozy pairing.
• Chai Latte: A spiced chai latte brings out the warmth of the pumpkin and maple, creating a comforting duo.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cheesecakes: Pair with small cheesecakes for a delightful variety that guests will love.
• Chocolate-Dipped Fruits: Add chocolate-covered strawberries or bananas for a sweet contrast to the cookies’ flavors.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm cookie offers a delicious melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream: Enhance the fall theme by serving alongside this seasonal favorite.

On Their Own

• With Tea or Coffee: Enjoy these cookies simply with your favorite tea or coffee for a quick snack.
• As Snack Bites: Perfect to grab on-the-go; pack them in lunch boxes or enjoy them during afternoon breaks.

How to Perfect chewy maple pumpkin cookies

To achieve the best chewy maple pumpkin cookies, follow these simple tips. They will help ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 8 hours allows flavors to meld and improves texture.
• Brown Your Butter Properly: Ensure you brown the butter just until it has deep golden bits, which adds depth of flavor.
• Adjust Spices to Taste: Before rolling in sugar, taste and adjust spices if needed to suit your preference.
• Check Baking Time Carefully: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; remove them when they are slightly puffed but set in the middle.
• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: If possible, use fresh pumpkin puree for an even richer taste and better texture.
• Store Properly: To keep cookies fresh longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Best Side Dishes for chewy maple pumpkin cookies

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Consider serving them alongside these options:

1. Cinnamon Roll Waffles: A fun twist on breakfast that complements the cookie’s spices with extra sweetness.
2. Caramelized Apples: Sweetened apples add a fruity touch that pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors.
3. Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: Serve with a creamy dip for an indulgent dessert experience that’s easy to share.
4. Maple Pecan Granola: Crunchy granola adds texture and flavor contrast while sticking with the maple theme.
5. Spiced Nuts Mix: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg provide a savory balance to sweet cookies.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness enhances the flavors of the pumpkin while adding an interesting side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using too much flour – Over-measuring flour can lead to dry cookies. Always spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• Neglecting to chill the dough – Skipping the chilling step can result in cookies that spread too much. Chill the dough for at least 8 hours to achieve the perfect texture.
• Not checking for doneness – Baking times can vary. Keep an eye on your cookies and check them around the 9-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures – Using cold ingredients, especially butter and eggs, can impact the dough consistency. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature unless specified otherwise.
• Forgetting the spice balance – Spices are crucial for flavor. Taste your spiced sugar mixture before coating to ensure it is balanced according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake cookies for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop – Warm a non-stick pan over low heat, then add cookies, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about chewy maple pumpkin cookies.

What makes chewy maple pumpkin cookies different from regular pumpkin cookies?

Chewy maple pumpkin cookies have a rich texture due to browned butter and a balanced combination of spices, providing a delightful fall flavor that stands out.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, make sure it’s cooked and well-drained before adding it to your dough for optimal results.

How do I know when my chewy maple pumpkin cookies are done baking?

Your cookies should be slightly puffed and just set at the edges. They will continue cooking slightly after removing them from the oven.

Can I customize my chewy maple pumpkin cookie recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit for extra flavor and texture variations.

How do I keep my chewy maple pumpkin cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough before baking helps maintain their shape and leads to chewier results. Make sure not to skip this step!

Final Thoughts

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With their rich flavors and delightful chewiness, they make a perfect treat for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional spices or mix-ins that suit your taste!