chewy maple pumpkin cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to celebrate the fall season, these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are just what you need! Imagine the warm aroma of spices filling your kitchen as you bake these delightful cookies. They are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, bringing that comforting taste of autumn right to your home. With their sweet and buttery texture, each bite is like a hug from the inside. These chewy maple pumpkin cookies have become a beloved recipe in my family, and I can’t wait to share them with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is straightforward and fun!
• Perfect for Sharing: With 20 cookies in one batch, they’re great for parties or bake sales.
• Delicious Fall Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and maple syrup creates an irresistible taste that screams autumn.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies have the perfect chewiness that keeps you coming back for more.
• Make Ahead Option: Chill the dough overnight and bake fresh cookies whenever you want!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring these chewy maple pumpkin cookies to life! You probably have most of these in your pantry already.

Dry 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

Wet Ingredients

• 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

Coating

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

Variations

The beauty of these chewy maple pumpkin cookies is their flexibility! Feel free to adjust the recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter twist, mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips before baking.
• Use Different Spices: Swap out the pumpkin spice for ginger or cinnamon if you’d like a different flavor profile.
• Make Them Healthier: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
• Create Sandwich Cookies: Spread a layer of dairy-free frosting between two cookies for a delicious treat!

How to Make chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Step 1: Make Brown Butter

Start by making the brown butter about an hour before you plan to bake. This step adds a rich nuttiness to your cookies. Melt your butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan and whisk continuously until it begins to foam and brown bits form at the bottom. Once done, transfer it to a clean bowl and let it cool for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Pumpkin Purée

To ensure your pumpkin puree isn’t too watery (which can affect the cookie texture), scoop a generous half cup onto some paper towels in a shallow bowl. Let it sit for a bit while the excess moisture is absorbed. Squeeze out any remaining liquid before adding it to your cookie dough.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, your chosen spice blend, baking soda, and salt until everything is well combined. This step is crucial because it ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices throughout the dough.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooled brown butter with light brown sugar and pure maple syrup until well mixed. The combination should be smooth and creamy—this is where that rich flavor starts developing!

Step 5: Add Egg Yolk and Pumpkin

Next, stir in the egg yolk until fully incorporated. Then add in the prepared pumpkin puree along with vanilla extract and maple extract if you’re using it. Mixing these ingredients well helps create that soft texture we love in chewy cookies.

Step 6: Combine Dry with Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to fold in those dry ingredients into your wet mixture gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our dough soft yet slightly thick.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Cover your cookie dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least eight hours or up to overnight if possible. Chilling helps enhance flavors and improves texture when baked.

Step 8: Preheat Oven & Prepare Cookie 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 so that those lovely cookies don’t stick!

Step 9: Prepare Spiced Sugar Coating

Mix together granulated sugar with additional spices until well combined. You can adjust this mixture based on your taste preferences—maybe add more cinnamon or nutmeg?

Step 10: Scoop & Roll Dough Balls

Using a cookie scoop (about 2 inches), portion out balls of dough and roll them generously in your spiced sugar mixture. Place them on prepared sheets about two or three inches apart; they will spread as they bake!

Step 11: Bake & Check Cookies

Bake those beauties in your preheated oven for about 12-14 minutes. At around nine minutes, check on them; if they puff up too much, give them a gentle bang on the oven rack—this helps create that nice chewy texture.

Step 12: Cool & Enjoy!

Once baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for about three to five minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack to finish cooling completely. Now comes the best part—enjoy every bite of these delightful chewy maple pumpkin cookies!

Pro Tips for Making chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Making these chewy maple pumpkin cookies is a delightful experience, and with a few expert tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your egg yolk and canned pumpkin to room temperature will help them blend seamlessly into the dough, resulting in a smoother texture.

• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 8 hours (or overnight) enhances the flavors and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking. This step is key for achieving that perfect chewiness.

• Don’t skip the brown butter: Browned butter not only adds a rich, nutty flavor but also contributes to the overall tenderness of the cookie. It’s worth the extra time!

• Adjust spice levels: Tasting your spiced sugar mixture before coating your cookies allows you to customize it to your liking. Feel free to add more spice if you prefer a stronger flavor!

• Monitor baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of baking. If they puff up too much, gently banging the pan can help them flatten out while continuing to cook.

How to Serve chewy maple pumpkin cookies

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for sharing during fall gatherings or cozy nights in. Here are some fun ideas on how to present them!

Garnishes

• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle over the top adds an extra touch of sweetness and enhances the maple flavor.
• Candied pecans: Chopped candied pecans sprinkled on top give a delightful crunch and complement the pumpkin perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Chai tea: A warm cup of chai tea pairs brilliantly with these cookies, enhancing their spice profile while providing comforting warmth.
• Apple cider: Serve these cookies alongside a glass of hot apple cider for a classic fall combination that feels festive and cozy.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn this delicious cookie into an indulgent dessert; it melts slightly over warm cookies for a heavenly treat!
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the cookies, making for a delightful contrast in flavors.

Enjoy creating and sharing these chewy maple pumpkin cookies! They’re sure to become a favorite in your home this season.

Make Ahead and Storage

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your cookies fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, place wax paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Freeze cookie dough balls before baking by placing them on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• To bake frozen dough, add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

• Warm individual cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
• Alternatively, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about chewy maple pumpkin cookies!

What makes chewy maple pumpkin cookies so special?

Chewy maple pumpkin cookies are special because they combine the rich flavors of maple syrup and pumpkin with a delightful chewiness that makes them irresistible. The brown butter adds depth, while the spices deliver that cozy fall flavor we all love!

Can I use a different type of sugar in chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

Yes, you can experiment with different sugars! Coconut sugar or granulated cane sugar can be used as alternatives. Just keep in mind that substitutions may slightly affect texture and flavor.

How do I ensure my chewy maple pumpkin cookies turn out perfect every time?

To achieve perfect chewy maple pumpkin cookies, be sure to chill the dough as instructed. This step helps with spreading during baking. Also, monitor your cookies closely towards the end of their baking time!

Are chewy maple pumpkin cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! These cookies make wonderful gifts during the fall season. Package them in decorative boxes or tins to share your homemade goodness with friends and family.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious chewy maple pumpkin cookies as much as I do! They are not only a treat for yourself but also a delightful way to share the flavors of fall with loved ones. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored for later, they are sure to bring warmth and joy to any occasion. Happy baking!