chewy maple pumpkin cookies

these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are the perfect treat for fall, bringing together the warm flavors of pumpkin and maple syrup. With their soft, chewy texture and a delightful spiced sugar coating, they make a fantastic snack or dessert for any occasion, from cozy gatherings to holiday celebrations. These cookies truly capture the essence of autumn with every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Fall Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and maple syrup creates a unique and comforting taste that embodies the essence of autumn.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, these cookies are simple enough for novice bakers to master.
• Chewy Texture: The brown butter adds a rich flavor while ensuring each cookie retains a delightful chewiness that you’ll crave.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for sharing at parties, enjoying with coffee, or simply indulging at home—these cookies fit any occasion!
• Make Ahead Option: The dough can be chilled overnight, allowing you to prepare in advance for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious cookie recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl: Essential for thoroughly combining ingredients and achieving the right texture in your cookie dough.
• Cookie scoop: Helps create uniform cookie sizes for even baking and a professional look.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier by providing a non-stick surface on your baking sheets.

Ingredients

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

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 Sugar Mixture

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

How to Make chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Step 1: Make Brown Butter

Start by preparing your brown butter about an hour before you need it.
1. Melt the butter in a clear heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk continuously until the butter begins to foam and turns golden brown with small bits forming.
3. Remove from heat, pour into a clean bowl, and allow it to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Pumpkin Puree

To ensure the best texture in your cookies:
1. Lay 2-3 paper towels across a wide shallow bowl.
2. Scoop 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree onto the paper towels.
3. Let it sit so that excess water absorbs into the towels.
4. Before use, squeeze out any remaining water from the pumpkin.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, pumpkin spice blend, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
2. Set aside.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In yet another bowl:
1. Stir together cooled brown butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup until fully combined.
2. Mix in the egg yolk until thoroughly blended.
3. Then add in the prepared pumpkin puree along with vanilla and optional maple extracts.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time to mix:
1. Gradually stir in the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
2. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight.

Step 6: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking 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.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Before baking:
1. Remove dough from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
2. Mix together granulated sugar with additional spice blend used in the dough.
3. Using a cookie scoop, scoop out dough balls and roll them in the spiced sugar mixture.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Finally:
1. Place dough balls about 2-3 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
2. Bake for 12-14 minutes; check around the 9-minute mark.
3. If puffier than desired, gently bang the pan on the oven rack to flatten slightly before finishing baking.

Step 9: Cool & Enjoy!

Once baked:
1. Let cookies cool on baking sheet for about 3-5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade chewy maple pumpkin cookies! They are sure to be a hit this fall season!

How to Serve chewy maple pumpkin cookies

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just indulging at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With a Cup of Tea

• Pairing your cookies with a warm cup of tea enhances the cozy flavors. Opt for chai or herbal tea for a comforting experience.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create ice cream sandwiches. Choose vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delicious contrast to the chewy texture.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie for an extra layer of sweetness. You can sprinkle some cinnamon on the whipped cream for added flavor.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your chewy maple pumpkin cookies on a dessert platter with other fall treats like mini pies and caramel apples to impress your guests.

Gift-Worthy Treats

• Package the cookies in a decorative box tied with ribbon. They make great homemade gifts for friends and family during the fall season.

How to Perfect chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Perfecting your chewy maple pumpkin cookies requires attention to detail and a few essential tips. Follow these guidelines to elevate your baking game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Ensure your spices and baking soda are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
• Chill the Dough – Allowing the dough to chill helps enhance the flavors and improves the cookie’s texture.
• Brown Your Butter – Browning the butter adds depth and richness, giving your cookies an irresistible nutty flavor.
• Scoop Evenly – Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes, ensuring even baking throughout.
• Monitor Baking Time – Keep an eye on them in the oven; they should be set but still soft in the center when done.
• Cool Properly – Let them cool on a rack after baking to maintain their chewy consistency.

Best Side Dishes for chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Pairing side dishes with your chewy maple pumpkin cookies can create an amazing dessert experience. Here’s a list of complementary options you might consider:

1. Apple Cider – The sweet and tangy taste of apple cider complements the flavors in the cookies beautifully.
2. Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup offers a savory contrast that enhances the fall theme.
3. Cheese Plate – Include soft cheeses like brie or mascarpone with crackers, providing a savory balance to sweet cookies.
4. Caramel Dipping Sauce – Drizzle some caramel sauce alongside your cookies for an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist.
5. Roasted Nuts – A mix of roasted walnuts or pecans adds crunch and pairs well with the soft texture of the cookies.
6. Hot Chocolate – Enjoy these cookies with rich hot chocolate topped with marshmallows for an extra cozy treat.
7. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad brings freshness that contrasts nicely with the richness of the cookies.
8. Spiced Tea Latte – The warm spices in a tea latte will harmonize beautifully with the flavors of your pumpkin cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To achieve the best chewy maple pumpkin cookies, avoid these common mistakes.

• Using too much pumpkin – Too much moisture from the pumpkin can lead to overly soft cookies. Always blot the pumpkin to remove excess water before using it.
• Skipping the chilling step – Chilling the dough is essential for better texture and flavor. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 8 hours or overnight for optimal results.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Inaccurate measurements can ruin your cookies. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups correctly to ensure precision.
• Overbaking the cookies – Overbaking makes cookies dry. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they are slightly puffy but still soft in the center.
• Ignoring spice balance – A well-balanced spice mix enhances flavor. Taste your spiced sugar mixture and adjust if necessary before rolling the dough.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chewy maple pumpkin cookies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and warm the cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I get my chewy maple pumpkin cookies to stay soft?

Using brown butter and chilling the dough helps retain moisture, ensuring they remain soft and chewy after baking.

Can I use other spices instead of pumpkin spice?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cinnamon, nutmeg, or any favorite fall spices to customize your chewy maple pumpkin cookies.

What can I substitute for brown sugar?

You can use coconut sugar or white sugar combined with a bit of molasses to replicate the flavor of brown sugar in these cookies.

How can I make these chewy maple pumpkin cookies vegan?

Use plant-based butter and replace the egg yolk with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).

Final Thoughts

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for celebrating fall flavors. The combination of spices and sweetness makes them irresistible! You can also customize these by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture. Give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!