chewy maple pumpkin cookies

these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are the perfect autumn treat! With their delightful blend of maple and pumpkin, these cookies capture the essence of fall. They’re great for gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or satisfying your sweet tooth. The chewy texture and rich flavor make them a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Fall Flavor – These cookies combine the warm spices of pumpkin and maple, creating a comforting taste that’s perfect for autumn.
• Chewy Texture – The unique method of using brown butter gives these cookies a wonderfully chewy texture that you’ll love to bite into.
• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for novice bakers.
• Versatile Treat – Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even as part of a festive celebration. They fit right in at any occasion!
• Customizable – Feel free to adjust the spices or add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your chewy maple pumpkin cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl – A stand mixer makes combining ingredients effortless, but a mixing bowl works just as well for hand mixing.
• Whisk – This tool is essential for ensuring that your dry ingredients are well combined with the wet ingredients.
• Baking sheets – Using parchment-lined baking sheets ensures easy cookie removal and prevents sticking.

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Ingredients

To create these delightful chewy maple pumpkin cookies, you will 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

• 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 the brown butter about an hour before you plan to bake.
1. Melt the butter in a clear heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk continuously until it foams and develops brown bits at the bottom.
3. Remove from heat and pour into a clean bowl to cool for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Pumpkin Puree

While the butter cools, prepare your pumpkin puree.
1. Lay 2-3 paper towels across a wide shallow bowl.
2. Scoop 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree onto the towels to absorb excess moisture.
3. Squeeze out any remaining water before using it in your recipe.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients:
1. Combine flour, spice blend, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Stir together the cooled brown butter, light brown sugar, and maple syrup until fully blended.
2. Add in the egg yolk and mix until combined.

Step 5: Add Pumpkin and Flavorings

Next:
1. Stir in the blotted pumpkin puree along with vanilla and optional maple extract until incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now combine everything:
1. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 7: Chill Dough

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

Step 8: Preheat Oven

When ready to bake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 9: Prepare Sugar Coating

Mix together:
1. Combine granulated sugar with additional spice blend in a small bowl.

Step 10: Roll Cookies

Using a cookie scoop:
1. Scoop out dough balls and roll them in the spiced sugar mixture.

Step 11: Bake Cookies

Place them on prepared sheets:
1. Space cookie dough balls about 2-3 inches apart.
2. Bake for 12-14 minutes; check around minute 9-10 for desired puffiness.

Step 12: Cool Cookies

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

Enjoy these chewy maple pumpkin cookies fresh from the oven!

How to Serve chewy maple pumpkin cookies

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, serving these cookies can elevate your dessert table or snack time.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination that enhances the buttery flavor.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a festive dessert platter alongside other seasonal treats, like apple cider doughnuts and pecan pie bars.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea. The warm spices complement hot beverages beautifully.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Serve these chewy maple pumpkin cookies during holiday gatherings as a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Dressed Up with Frosting

• Add a drizzle of maple frosting or cream cheese frosting on top for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.

How to Perfect chewy maple pumpkin cookies

To achieve the best results with your chewy maple pumpkin cookies, follow these helpful tips for perfect texture and flavor.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh spices and high-quality butter for the best taste in your cookies.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough allows flavors to meld and helps prevent excessive spreading during baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; they should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies tender and chewy.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the spice blend according to your personal preference for warmth and flavor.
• Cool Properly: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack; this helps maintain their shape.

Best Side Dishes for chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Chewy maple pumpkin cookies pair well with various side dishes, making them versatile for different occasions. Here are some great options:

1. Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider complements the fall flavors of the cookies nicely.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie, offers a savory contrast to sweet cookies.
3. Pumpkin Soup: A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup can make for a cozy pairing that enhances the autumn experience.
4. Caramel Dip: Serve with caramel dip for an indulgent treat that adds richness to each bite.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing side that balances sweetness.
6. Nut Mix: A mix of spiced nuts provides crunch and complements the cookie’s soft texture perfectly.
7. Sliced Fruit: Fresh slices of pear or apple provide a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookie.
8. Hot Chocolate: A steaming cup of hot chocolate makes for an excellent pairing, especially on chilly days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking chewy maple pumpkin cookies can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the brown butter process – Failing to brown the butter will result in a cookie that lacks the rich, nutty flavor essential for chewy maple pumpkin cookies. Always take the time to brown your butter properly.
• Not chilling the dough – Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. If you skip this step, your cookies may spread too much and lose their shape.
• Using wet pumpkin puree – Excess moisture in pumpkin puree can lead to overly soft cookies. Make sure to blot the puree well before using it in your dough.
• Overbaking – Baking for too long can turn chewy cookies into dry ones. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven when they are just set.
• Ignoring spice balance – The right amount of spice is key for flavor. Taste your sugar mixture before rolling your cookies to ensure it meets your preference.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chewy maple pumpkin cookies in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (177°C), place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, warming each cookie briefly until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making chewy maple pumpkin cookies.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

You can use fresh pumpkin, but make sure it is cooked and blotted dry like canned pumpkin. This ensures proper texture.

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

Look for edges that are set and slightly golden while centers may appear soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these chewy maple pumpkin cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What spices work best in chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

Pumpkin pie spice or chai spice blends are excellent choices, enhancing the fall flavors beautifully.

How should I store leftover cookie dough?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies offer delightful flavors perfect for any fall celebration or cozy afternoon snack. Their versatility allows for various customization options; feel free to experiment with different spices or add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite!