chewy maple pumpkin cookies

these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are the perfect treat for autumn gatherings or cozy nights in. With a delightful blend of sweet maple and warm pumpkin flavors, these cookies offer a chewy texture that’s hard to resist. Ideal for sharing with friends or enjoying as an afternoon snack, they bring a comforting taste of fall to any occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your kitchen smell amazing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and pumpkin creates a rich, sweet taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies maintain a delightful chewiness, making each bite satisfying and enjoyable.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for parties, holidays, or just as a snack, these cookies fit any occasion beautifully.
• Make Ahead Option: You can chill the dough overnight, allowing you to prep ahead and bake fresh cookies when desired.

Tools and Preparation

To create these chewy maple pumpkin cookies successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Being prepared will make the baking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup on baking sheets.

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Ingredients

these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are made from a maple pumpkin sugar cookie dough. they’re coated in a sweet and spicy sugar. the result is a chewy, sweet and buttery pumpkin cookie that’s full of delicious fall flavor!

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 Coating

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

How to Make chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

Make brown butter about an hour before you plan to make the cookies. It will need about 15 minutes to make and another 15-30 minutes to cool enough for use in the recipe.
1. Melt butter in a clear heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat.
2. Once it starts foaming, whisk continuously until brown bits form at the bottom.
3. Remove from heat, pour into a clean bowl, and let cool for 30 minutes until it reaches room temperature.

Step 2: Prepare Pumpkin Puree

Lay 2-3 paper towels across a wide shallow bowl.
1. Scoop a generous 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree onto the paper towels.
2. Allow excess water to absorb into them.
3. Before using, squeeze out any remaining moisture from the pumpkin.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Stir together cooled brown butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup until fully combined.
2. Add in egg yolk until mixed well.

Step 5: Add Pumpkin & Extracts

Stir in:
1. Blotted pumpkin puree,
2. Vanilla extract,
3. Maple extract (if using).

Step 6: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

Carefully fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients:
1. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 7: Chill Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap:
1. Chill in the fridge for at least 8 hours or up to overnight.

Step 8: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C):
1. Line one or two large cookie sheets with parchment paper while waiting for dough.

Step 9: Roll Cookies in Sugar Mixture

Mix coating sugar with spice blend:
1. Using a cookie scoop, portion out cookie dough.
2. Roll each ball in spiced sugar mixture before placing on baking sheets.

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Bake at 350°F (177°C) for about 12-14 minutes:
1. Check cookies at around 9-10 minutes; if puffed up too much, gently bang the pan on the oven rack several times before finishing baking.

Step 11: Cool Cookies

Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet:
1. After about 3-5 minutes on top of a cooling rack, transfer them to cool completely.

Enjoy your chewy maple pumpkin cookies with family and friends!

How to Serve chewy maple pumpkin cookies

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you celebrate fall or need a sweet treat, they can be served in various delightful ways.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair these cookies with your favorite coffee for a delicious afternoon pick-me-up. The warm flavors of the cookie blend beautifully with a rich brew.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a platter alongside other seasonal treats like apple cider donuts and spiced nuts for an inviting dessert spread at gatherings.

With Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The contrast of temperatures creates a delightful dessert experience.

For Holiday Gift Baskets

• Package these cookies in decorative tins or boxes as gifts during the holiday season. They make thoughtful and tasty presents for friends and family.

At Seasonal Parties

• Bring these cookies to potlucks and Halloween parties. Their festive flavor will surely be a hit among guests of all ages.

How to Perfect chewy maple pumpkin cookies

To achieve the best chewy maple pumpkin cookies, follow these helpful tips.

• Use brown butter: Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cookies.
• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill in the fridge helps improve texture and prevents spreading too much during baking.
• Don’t overmix: Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed to maintain a tender cookie texture.
• Test for doneness: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center when finished.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their chewiness.

Best Side Dishes for chewy maple pumpkin cookies

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies can be complemented by various delicious side dishes that add variety to your dessert table.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink made with apple juice, cinnamon, and cloves is perfect alongside these sweet treats.
2. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This popular coffee drink combines pumpkin flavors with espresso and steamed milk, enhancing your autumn vibes.
3. Candied Pecans: Sweet and crunchy pecans provide a delightful contrast to soft cookies, making them ideal for snacking.
4. Cheese Plate: Offer creamy cheeses such as brie or goat cheese paired with fruit preserves for a savory-sweet combination.
5. Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad can balance out the sweetness of the cookies while adding color to your plate.
6. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: Salty pretzels coated in chocolate create an interesting flavor profile when enjoyed alongside maple pumpkin cookies.
7. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your cookie before serving for an extra indulgent touch.
8. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh fruits for a healthy side that pairs well with the richness of these cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your chewy maple pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly, avoid these common baking mistakes.

• Skipping the chilling step: Failing to chill the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much. Always chill the dough for at least 8 hours for better texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can make cookies dry and dense. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurements.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them chewy and soft.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature may burn or underbake your cookies. Always preheat and use an oven thermometer if necessary.
• Using outdated ingredients: Old baking soda or spices can affect flavor and texture. Check expiration dates before starting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and heat for about 5 minutes. This restores their chewiness.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh taste.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a pan over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 1 minute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making chewy maple pumpkin cookies.

How do I achieve chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

To achieve that perfect chewy texture, be sure not to overbake them. Removing them from the oven when they are slightly underbaked will help maintain moisture.

Can I customize the spices in my chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

Absolutely! You can adjust the spice blend according to your taste. Adding more cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the fall flavor even further.

What can I substitute if I don’t have brown sugar?

If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a little molasses as a substitute. This will mimic the flavor profile of brown sugar.

How should I store my chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you prefer a softer texture.

Final Thoughts

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different spices or add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful treats throughout fall!