chewy maple pumpkin cookies

these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are the perfect treat for any autumn occasion! Bursting with rich flavors of pumpkin and maple, these cookies provide a delightful chewy texture that is sure to impress family and friends. The sweet and spicy sugar coating adds an extra layer of flavor, making them ideal for celebrations, cozy gatherings, or as a comforting snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Fall Flavor: These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are infused with the warm spices of fall, making them a seasonal favorite.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
• Chewy Texture: The use of browned butter gives these cookies their signature chewy consistency that everyone loves.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch and share with friends or family; they’re sure to be a hit!
• Versatile Enjoyment: Serve them as a dessert or enjoy them as a sweet snack with coffee or tea.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the process of making your chewy maple pumpkin cookies, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make your baking experience smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without any mess.
• Whisk: A must-have for evenly mixing your ingredients, especially when incorporating air into the butter mixture.
• Cookie scoop: This tool helps ensure uniform cookie sizes, leading to even baking.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the cookies, preventing sogginess and ensuring they cool perfectly.

Ingredients

To make these delicious chewy maple pumpkin cookies, you’ll need 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: Prepare Brown Butter

Start by making brown butter about an hour before you plan to bake. It requires about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-30 minutes to cool down:
1. Melt the butter in a clear heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk continuously once it starts foaming until brown bits form.
3. Remove from heat and pour into a clean bowl. Allow it to cool for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Pumpkin Puree

Properly prepare your pumpkin puree before using it:
1. Lay 2-3 paper towels across a shallow bowl.
2. Scoop a generous 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree onto the towels.
3. Allow the excess water to absorb into the paper towels; then squeeze out any remaining moisture before using.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In this step, mix together your dry components:
1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, spice blend, baking soda, and salt until combined. Set aside.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to combine your wet ingredients for those incredible flavors:
1. In another bowl, stir cooled brown butter with light brown sugar and maple syrup until well mixed.
2. Add in the egg yolk and stir until blended.
3. Incorporate canned pumpkin along with vanilla and optional maple extracts; mix until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Bring everything together in this crucial step:
1. Gradually stir in dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
2. Cover the dough 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.
3. Allow chilled dough to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping.

Step 7: Coat Cookie Dough

Prepare your spiced sugar coating while waiting:
1. Mix granulated sugar with remaining spice blend until well incorporated; taste and adjust if necessary.

Step 8: Shape Cookies

Get those cookies ready for baking:
1. Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough into balls.
2. Roll each ball in the spiced sugar mixture until fully coated.
3. Place on prepared baking sheets about 2-3 inches apart.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

It’s time for baking!
1. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for approximately 12-14 minutes.
2. Check at around 9-10 minutes; if puffier than desired, firmly bang the pan on the oven rack to flatten slightly before finishing baking.

Step 10: Cool Cookies

Finally! Let’s cool those delicious treats:
1. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets on top of cooling racks for about 3-5 minutes.
2. Carefully transfer cookies onto racks to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your homemade chewy maple pumpkin cookies packed with flavor!

How to Serve chewy maple pumpkin cookies

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings, or even as a delightful snack. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee – Pair with a hot cup of coffee to balance the sweetness.
• Chai Latte – The spices in chai complement the flavors in the cookies perfectly.
• Hot Apple Cider – Enjoy with warm cider for a comforting autumn treat.

At Gatherings

• Dessert Table – Arrange them on a festive platter for holiday celebrations.
• Gift Bags – Package them in decorative bags for party favors or treats.
• Cookie Swap – Include these in a cookie exchange; they will be a hit among friends!

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – Serve warm cookies over vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream – Enhance the fall flavors by pairing with pumpkin spice ice cream.

How to Perfect chewy maple pumpkin cookies

To achieve the best chewy maple pumpkin cookies, follow these simple tips for optimal results.

• Use Browned Butter – This adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the sweetness.
• Chill the Dough – Allowing the dough to chill helps maintain thickness and ensures chewyness.
• Monitor Baking Time – Bake just until edges are set; soft centers will firm up while cooling.
• Measure Flour Accurately – Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies.
• Adjust Spices to Taste – Feel free to tweak spice levels according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Pairing side dishes with chewy maple pumpkin cookies can enhance your meal and make it more satisfying. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Spiced Hot Chocolate – A creamy beverage infused with warm spices complements cookie flavors beautifully.
2. Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of pumpkin soup can serve as a comforting appetizer before enjoying cookies.
3. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda; their creaminess balances the cookie’s sweetness.
4. Roasted Nuts – Offer a mix of spiced nuts for crunch and contrast against the soft cookie texture.
5. Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit medley adds brightness and lightness alongside rich cookies.
6. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and autumn fruits for a healthy side option that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making chewy maple pumpkin cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Incorrect flour measurement – Using too much or too little flour can alter the texture. Always measure flour using the spoon and level method for accuracy.
• Not chilling the dough – Skipping the chilling step can lead to cookies that spread too much. Chilling helps maintain their shape and enhances flavor.
• Overmixing the dough – Mixing too vigorously can create tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them chewy.
• Ignoring baking time – Every oven is different; not checking cookies regularly may lead to overbaking. Start checking at the minimum baking time suggested in the recipe.
• Using cold ingredients – Ingredients like eggs and butter should be at room temperature for better incorporation. This ensures a uniform texture in your cookies.

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 fridge.

Freezing chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months for best quality.

Reheating chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (177°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, placing a cookie in until warmed, about 1-2 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding chewy maple pumpkin cookies.

How do I make chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

To make these delicious cookies, combine ingredients like brown butter, brown sugar, and canned pumpkin with flour and spices. Chill the dough before baking for optimal texture.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! If using fresh pumpkin, ensure it is cooked and blotted to remove excess moisture before adding it to the dough.

What is the best way to store chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze them for up to three months.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your chewy maple pumpkin cookies by adding walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Their rich flavors and delightful chewiness make them irresistible. Experiment with different spices or mix-ins to create your unique twist on this classic treat!