chewy maple pumpkin cookies

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. The combination of maple syrup and pumpkin creates a unique flavor that is both comforting and indulgent. Coated in a spiced sugar mixture, these cookies offer a chewy texture that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or treating yourself, these cookies are bound to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of maple syrup and pumpkin gives these cookies a rich and warm taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or as part of a festive celebration; they fit any occasion!
• Chewy Texture: The unique method of browning the butter adds depth and results in irresistibly chewy cookies.
• Spiced Sugar Coating: Adding a sweet and spicy sugar coating enhances both flavor and appearance.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without mess.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the cookie dough for a lighter texture.
• Baking sheets: Ensure even baking when lined with parchment paper.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Ingredients

To create the perfect chewy maple pumpkin cookies, gather 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: Make Brown Butter

Start by making the brown butter about an hour before you plan to make the cookies.
1. Melt butter in a clear heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat.
2. Once it starts to foam, whisk continuously until brown bits form.
3. Remove from heat and pour into a clean bowl; cool for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Pumpkin Purée

Prepare your pumpkin purée to ensure it’s not too watery.
1. Lay 2-3 paper towels across a wide shallow bowl.
2. Scoop a generous 1/2 cup of pumpkin purée onto the towels.
3. Allow excess water to absorb into the towels; then squeeze out any remaining moisture.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together your dry ingredients for even distribution.
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, spice blend, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to combine your wet ingredients for that flavorful base.
1. Stir cooled brown butter with light brown sugar and maple syrup until fully combined.
2. Add the egg yolk and mix well until incorporated.

Step 5: Add Pumpkin & Extracts

Incorporate the pumpkin purée and extracts into the mixture.
1. Stir in blotted pumpkin purée along with vanilla extract and optional maple extract until combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

Merge both mixtures carefully to form your cookie dough.
1. Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 7: Chill Dough

Chill your dough for improved flavor and texture.
1. Cover dough with plastic wrap; chill in fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight.

Step 8: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

Get ready to bake!
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 9: Roll Cookies in Spiced Sugar

Prepare your cookie balls for baking with their sweet coat!
1. In one bowl, mix granulated sugar with additional spice blend.
2. Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough balls and roll each in spiced sugar mixture.

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Bake until perfectly chewy!
1. Place cookie balls on baking sheets about 2-3 inches apart.
2. Bake for 12-14 minutes; check at around 9-10 minutes for desired puffiness—bang pan if necessary for spreading.

Step 11: Cool & Enjoy

Allow cookies to cool before indulging!
1. Let cookies cool on baking sheet on top of cooling rack for about 3-5 minutes before transferring them fully onto the cooling rack.

Now you have perfected your very own batch of chewy maple pumpkin cookies! Enjoy these delicious treats with friends or keep them all to yourself!

How to Serve chewy maple pumpkin cookies

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy fall gathering or a festive celebration. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Cup of Warm Beverage

• Hot Chocolate: The rich chocolate flavor complements the sweetness of the cookies.
• Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai enhance the cookie’s fall flavors.
• Pumpkin Spice Latte: A match made in heaven with added pumpkin goodness.

As Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment: Pair the cookies with other seasonal treats like ginger snaps and oatmeal raisin cookies.
• Cheese Board Addition: Include these cookies with cheese for a sweet and savory combo.

Toppings and Extras

• Drizzle of Maple Syrup: A light drizzle adds extra sweetness and brings out the maple flavor.
• Whipped Cream: Top with whipped cream for a decadent treat, perfect for special occasions.

How to Perfect chewy maple pumpkin cookies

To achieve the ultimate chewy texture and rich flavor in your chewy maple pumpkin cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps develop flavors and improves texture. Aim for at least 8 hours.
• Bold Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your spice blend is fresh for maximum flavor impact. Replace stale spices for better results.
• Bold Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision in measuring flour and sugars will prevent dry or overly wet dough.
• Bold Bake in Batches: Bake one tray at a time to ensure even cooking and browning of your cookies.
• Bold Cool Properly: Allow cookies to cool on a rack after baking. This maintains their chewy texture.

Best Side Dishes for chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Pairing side dishes with your chewy maple pumpkin cookies can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Pumpkin Soup: A creamy pumpkin soup can complement the cookie’s flavors beautifully, making it an ideal starter.
2. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce contrasts nicely with the sweet cookie, creating balance.
3. Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp served alongside can add another layer of fall flavors to your dessert table.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with caramel pairs perfectly with these chewy delights.
5. Caramel Dipping Sauce: Drizzle or dip in warm caramel sauce for an indulgent treat that enhances sweetness.
6. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites can add creaminess that contrasts nicely with the chewy texture of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making chewy maple pumpkin cookies, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect the dough’s consistency. Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
• Skipping the chilling time: Chilling the dough is essential for achieving the perfect chewiness. Don’t rush this step; letting it rest overnight yields better cookies.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately.
• Overbaking: Cookies that are baked too long will lose their softness. Keep an eye on them and remove while they still look slightly underbaked.
• Ignoring spice adjustments: Everyone has different tastes in spices. Taste your sugar mixture before rolling the cookies and adjust as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chewy maple pumpkin cookies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing chewy maple pumpkin cookies

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

Reheating chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C). Bake for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a minute or two until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about chewy maple pumpkin cookies:

How can I enhance the flavor of chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

Adding extra spices like nutmeg or ginger can elevate the flavor profile of your cookies.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree; just make sure to blot out excess moisture before adding it to the dough.

What’s the best way to store leftover chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Are chewy maple pumpkin cookies suitable for making ahead?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking.

Final Thoughts

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are not only delicious but also versatile, perfect for any fall gathering or cozy night in. Feel free to customize them with your favorite spices or toppings like nuts or chocolate chips. Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful treats!