Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin, the sweetness of maple, and the crunch of pecans. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a cozy fall afternoon or sharing them at a gathering. Their soft, fluffy texture and rich flavors will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and maple syrup delivers a unique taste that is both sweet and comforting.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time!
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or just as an everyday snack.
• Soft and Fluffy: Enjoy the delightful texture that melts in your mouth with every bite.
• Customizable Toppings: Add more chopped pecans or even chocolate chips for a personal twist!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make baking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essential items before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Cookie scoop or measuring spoon
• Baking sheet
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl helps combine ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and ensures that your butter and sugars are creamed together perfectly.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

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Ingredients

Yield: 20 cookies

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 & ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup unsalted butter at room temperature
• ¼ cup white sugar
• ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• ⅔ cup pumpkin puree, blotted
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ¼ cup maple syrup (for icing)
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves (for icing)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for icing)
• ¼ cup chopped pecans (for topping)

How to Make Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter

Take the unsalted butter out of the refrigerator so that it can come to room temperature. Allow it to sit out for about 20–30 minutes. The butter should still be firm but yield slightly when pressed.

Step 3: Gather Ingredients

While waiting for the butter, gather all your ingredients and tools. This ensures everything is ready at hand when you start mixing.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Flour
2. Baking powder
3. Ground cloves
4. Ground cinnamon
5. Salt

Whisk well to blend all dry ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Chop Pecans

Chop the pecans and divide them into two equal parts. You will fold half into the cookie dough and reserve half for topping once iced.

Step 6: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using an electric mixer, cream together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. White sugar
3. Dark brown sugar

Mix on medium speed for about 3–5 minutes until fluffy, scraping down the sides with a rubber spatula as needed.

Step 7: Blot Pumpkin Puree

Blot your pumpkin puree using high-quality paper towels in a small bowl to remove excess moisture before adding it to your mixture.

Step 8: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add:
1. Egg
2. Maple syrup
3. Blotted pumpkin puree

Mix on medium/high speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.

Step 9: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add one-third of the dry mixture to your wet mixture while mixing on low speed. Repeat until all ingredients are incorporated.

Step 10: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in half of your chopped pecans into the cookie dough using a rubber spatula.

Step 11: Scoop Cookie Dough

Use a cookie scoop or round measuring spoon to form approximately two-tablespoon-sized balls of cookie dough. Space them about two inches apart on a large baking sheet.

Step 12: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for 13–15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 13: Cool Cookies

Once baked, transfer cookies onto a cooling rack placed over another cookie sheet to catch any drips from icing later.

Step 14: Prepare Maple Icing

While cookies cool, prepare your icing by combining:
1. Powdered sugar
2. Maple syrup
3. Ground cinnamon
4. Ground cloves

Whisk these ingredients together until smooth.

Step 15: Ice Cookies

After cooling, drizzle each cookie with maple icing and sprinkle with remaining chopped pecans while the icing is still wet for best adherence.

Step 16: Enjoy!

These Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are now ready to be enjoyed! Perfect with a warm drink on a chilly day or as a festive treat during gatherings!

How to Serve Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

These Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With a Cup of Tea

• Pair these cookies with a warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or chai, for a cozy afternoon treat.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your cookies on a dessert platter alongside other seasonal treats like pumpkin pie and pecan tarts for a festive touch.

With Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert experience.

Drizzled with Extra Maple Syrup

• For those who love maple flavor, drizzle additional maple syrup over the cookies just before serving to enhance their sweetness.

At a Potluck

• Bring these cookies to potlucks or family gatherings; they’re sure to be a hit among guests of all ages.

How to Perfect Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

To ensure your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise and texture in your cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to maintain the soft, fluffy texture of the cookies. Overmixing can lead to dense results.
• Chill Dough if Necessary: If your cookie dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before scooping. This helps maintain shape while baking.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents adding too much flour, which can make cookies dry.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and structure in your dough.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

These delicious cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Chai Spiced Latte: A warm spiced latte enhances the cozy autumn vibe while balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Pumpkin Soup: A creamy pumpkin soup adds savory depth and makes for a heartwarming meal alongside your sweet treats.
3. Apple Crisp: The tartness of apple crisp contrasts well with the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful dessert duo.
4. Caramelized Pear Salad: A fresh salad with caramelized pears offers a refreshing crunch that pairs well with soft cookies.
5. Cheese Board: Pairing assorted cheeses with crackers will add savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
6. Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn: Light and crunchy popcorn tossed in cinnamon sugar makes an excellent snack alongside these rich cookies.
7. Hot Chocolate: A rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream is perfect for dunking the soft cookies into as you enjoy them by the fire.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides brightness and contrast to the rich flavors of pumpkin and pecans in the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Always let your butter sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before mixing.
• Skipping the Blotting Step: Not blotting your pumpkin puree can make cookies too wet. Use paper towels to remove excess moisture for fluffier cookies.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much after adding the dry ingredients can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
• Not Prepping Baking Sheets: Skipping parchment paper or greasing baking sheets can cause sticking. Always line your sheets to ensure easy removal of cookies.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: An inaccurate oven temperature can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat and use an oven thermometer if needed for accuracy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Reheating Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies.

Can I use different nuts in Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference.

What is the best way to store Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The edges should be slightly golden, and the centers will appear set but soft.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works for baking.

How long does it take to make Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies?

From start to finish, it takes about 80 minutes, including prep and bake time.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are not only soft and fluffy but also packed with seasonal flavors perfect for fall. Their versatility allows you to customize them with different nuts or spices according to your taste. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and enjoy the sweet aroma filling your kitchen!