Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies
These Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies are the perfect treat for autumn gatherings, cozy evenings, or just a delightful snack. With their rich flavors and chewy texture, these cookies bring the essence of fall right to your kitchen. Coated in a sweet and spicy sugar, they are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy them during celebrations or as an everyday dessert that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and pumpkin creates a unique taste that captures the essence of fall.
- Chewy Texture: These cookies have a perfect chewy consistency that makes them irresistible.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy family gathering, these cookies fit any occasion beautifully.
- Customizable: Feel free to tweak spices or add nuts to create your own version of these tasty treats.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your chewy maple pumpkin cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready makes the baking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Cookie sheets
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve a consistent texture when mixing wet ingredients with dry ones.
- Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet for easy removal.
- Cooling rack: Ensures proper cooling for cookies, maintaining their chewy texture.
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!
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
Sugar 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
To start, make brown butter about an hour before you plan to bake. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-30 minutes to cool down enough for use in the recipe.
- Melt butter in a clear heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk continuously until it begins to foam and brown bits form at the bottom.
- Remove from heat and pour into a clean bowl; let it cool for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Step 2: Prepare Pumpkin Puree
Squeeze excess moisture from canned pumpkin before using it in the recipe.
- Lay 2-3 paper towels across a wide shallow bowl.
- Scoop 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree onto the towels.
- Once absorbed, gently squeeze out more water.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Mix together your dry ingredients to ensure even distribution.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, spice blend, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine your wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Stir cooled brown butter with brown sugar and maple syrup until smooth.
- Add egg yolk and mix well until fully incorporated.
- Stir in pumpkin puree along with vanilla extract and optional maple extract.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Cover dough with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 6: Preheat Oven
Prepare your oven while the dough chills.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Step 7: Shape Cookies
Once chilled, shape your cookies for baking.
- Remove dough from fridge; let sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Mix spiced sugar coating ingredients together in a small bowl.
- Using a cookie scoop, form balls of dough; roll them in the spiced sugar mixture before placing on prepared sheets spaced about 2-3 inches apart.
Step 8: Bake Cookies
Now it’s time to bake those delicious chewy maple pumpkin cookies!
- Bake for about 12-14 minutes; check around 9-10 minutes.
- If puffier than desired, tap cookie sheet on oven rack to flatten slightly before finishing baking.
Step 9: Cool Cookies
Allow cookies to cool properly after baking.
- Let them cool on baking sheet for about 3-5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack until fully cooled down.
With these simple steps, you’ll have delightful chewy maple pumpkin cookies ready to impress family and friends! Enjoy!
How to Serve Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies
Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy fall gathering or a festive celebration. Here are some delightful ways to serve them that will impress your guests.
With a Hot Beverage
- Coffee: Pair your cookies with a rich cup of coffee for a delightful contrast between sweet and bitter.
- Hot Chocolate: Enjoy these cookies with a warm mug of hot chocolate for an indulgent treat.
- Chai Tea: The spices in chai complement the flavors of the cookies beautifully.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Cheesecake Bites: Add mini cheesecake bites to create a creamy contrast with the chewy texture of the cookies.
- Brownies: Include fudgy brownies for an extra chocolaty option that pairs well with pumpkin flavors.
- Fruit Tartlets: Add freshness with fruit tartlets; the fruit’s acidity balances the sweetness of the cookies.
At Holiday Gatherings
- Thanksgiving Dessert Table: These cookies make an excellent addition to any Thanksgiving feast, showcasing fall flavors.
- Christmas Cookie Exchange: Share your chewy maple pumpkin cookies at cookie exchanges for something unique and delicious.
How to Perfect Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies
To achieve the best results with your Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies, follow these tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda and spices are fresh to enhance flavor and texture.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps develop flavors and ensures your cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice blend according to your taste preferences; more cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile.
- Store Properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container to maintain their chewiness for longer periods.
Best Side Dishes for Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies
These Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Consider serving them alongside these options for a complete dessert experience.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your cookies for added richness and sweetness.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic cookie à la mode experience.
- Whipped Cream: Top your cookies with fresh whipped cream for an airy, light contrast.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: The warm spices in this drink echo those in the cookies, making it a perfect match.
- Apple Cider: Serve alongside warm apple cider to complement the fall flavors beautifully.
- Maple Syrup Dipping Sauce: Create a simple dipping sauce using maple syrup mixed with butter for an extra touch of sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making chewy maple pumpkin cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you succeed.
- Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using butter that is too hot can lead to a greasy dough. Make sure the brown butter cools to room temperature before adding it to the mixture.
- Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the dough can result in flat cookies. Always chill for at least 8 hours to achieve that perfect chewy texture.
- Not Measuring Flour Properly: Overpacking flour can make cookies dense. Use a spoon to fluff up the flour, then spoon it into your measuring cup for accuracy.
- Ignoring Pumpkin Preparation: Failing to blot excess moisture from the pumpkin can alter the cookie’s texture. Always squeeze out extra water from canned pumpkin.
- Overbaking Cookies: Baking too long can make cookies hard instead of chewy. Keep an eye on them and pull them out when they are just set.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
- They will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds; be cautious not to overheat.
- 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.
Can I use regular butter instead of European style?
You can use regular unsalted butter, but European style butter has a higher fat content which improves chewiness.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Cookies are done when they look slightly puffed and set around the edges but still soft in the center.
Can I substitute other spices?
Yes! Feel free to use your favorite spice blends like cinnamon or ginger for different flavor profiles in your chewy maple pumpkin cookies.
How do I make my cookies even chewier?
To enhance chewiness, try adding a bit more brown sugar or using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Chewy maple pumpkin cookies freeze well and maintain their flavor and texture after thawing.
Final Thoughts
Chewy maple pumpkin cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors that perfectly capture fall’s essence. Their versatility allows you to customize with your favorite spices or add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today and enjoy these cozy treats with family and friends!
Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies this fall. These delightful treats combine the sweetness of maple syrup with the rich taste of pumpkin, creating an irresistible cookie that’s perfect for any occasion. With their chewy texture and spiced sugar coating, they’re sure to become a favorite at autumn gatherings and cozy evenings alike. Easy to make with simple ingredients, these cookies are not only a delicious snack but also a versatile dessert that can be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy them with coffee, hot chocolate, or as part of a festive dessert platter!
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
- 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
- 1/2 c (100g) granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin or chai spice blend (for coating)
Instructions
- Prepare brown butter by melting it in a saucepan until browned; let cool.
- Blot canned pumpkin to remove excess moisture.
- In one bowl, mix dry ingredients; in another, combine wet ingredients including cooled brown butter.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined and chill the dough for at least 8 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Shape cookie dough into balls, roll in spiced sugar coating, and place on sheets.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes until slightly puffed and soft in the center; cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
