chewy maple pumpkin cookies

these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings or casual snacking. With a delightful blend of pumpkin and maple, these cookies capture the essence of fall in every bite. The unique combination of spices and the chewy texture make them irresistible. Whether for a celebration or simply to enjoy at home, these cookies will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Chewy Texture: These cookies have a delightful chewy consistency that makes each bite satisfying.
• Rich Fall Flavor: Infused with pumpkin and maple, they boast a warm, comforting taste ideal for the season.
• Easy to Make: Despite their gourmet appeal, these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are simple to prepare, even for beginners.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even as part of a festive spread during celebrations.
• Customizable Spice Blend: You can use your favorite spice mix to tailor the flavor profile to your liking.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on making these chewy maple pumpkin cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without any mess.
• Cookie Scoop: Helps ensure uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Cooling Rack: Allows air circulation around the cookies to cool them evenly.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these delicious chewy maple pumpkin cookies:

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

To start, make brown butter about an hour before you plan to bake. This process requires about 15 minutes to cook and another 15-30 minutes to cool.
1. Melt butter in a clear heavy-bottom saucepan.
2. Once it starts foaming, whisk continuously until brown bits form at the bottom.
3. Remove from heat and pour into a clean bowl to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Pumpkin Puree

Prepare your pumpkin puree ahead of time for better cookie texture.
1. Lay 2-3 paper towels across a wide shallow bowl.
2. Scoop a generous 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree onto the paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
3. Before using it in the recipe, squeeze out any remaining water.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Combine all dry ingredients for even distribution of flavors.
1. Whisk together flour, spice blend of choice, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
2. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Create the base of your cookie dough with all wet ingredients.
1. In a mixing bowl, stir together cooled brown butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup until well mixed.
2. Add in the egg yolk and stir until incorporated.
3. Mix in the prepared pumpkin puree along with vanilla extract and optional maple extract until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Bring everything together into a dough that’s easy to work with.
1. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
2. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight.

Step 6: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet

Get ready for baking while allowing dough to sit at room temperature briefly before shaping cookies.
1. Preheat oven to 350 F (177 C).
2. Line one or two large cookie sheets with parchment paper.
3. Let chilled dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before scooping.

Step 7: Prepare Sugar Coating

Mix spices with sugar for coating the cookies before baking them for added flavor!
1. In a small bowl, combine sugar with the same spice mix used in the cookie dough until well blended.
2. Taste it and adjust spices if necessary based on your preference.

Step 8: Shape Cookies

Create uniform cookie balls that will bake evenly in the oven!
1. Using a 2-inch cookie scoop, scoop out portions of dough.
2. Roll each scoop into the spiced sugar mixture until fully coated.
3. Place on lined baking sheets about 2-3 inches apart.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake these delightful treats until they’re perfectly done!
1. Bake at 350 F (177 C) for approximately 12-14 minutes.
2. At around 9-10 minutes in, check if they’re puffier than desired; bang the pan on oven rack if needed.
3. Continue baking for another few minutes until set but still soft.

Step 10: Cool Cookies

Allow your chewy maple pumpkin cookies to cool properly before enjoying!
1. Let them cool on baking sheet on top of cooling rack for about 3-5 minutes.
2. Transfer cookies to cooling rack to finish cooling completely before serving or storing.

Now you’re all set! Enjoy sharing these delightful chewy maple pumpkin cookies with friends and family this fall season!

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. They can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their delicious flavor and texture.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair these cookies with your favorite brew for a delightful afternoon treat. The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the chewy maple pumpkin cookies on a platter alongside other seasonal treats like apple pie or pecan tart. This makes for a festive dessert spread during gatherings.

With Cream Cheese Frosting

• For an extra indulgent twist, top the cookies with cream cheese frosting. The tangy flavor balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

On a Cozy Fall Evening

• Enjoy these cookies while snuggled up with a warm blanket and your favorite movie. Their comforting flavors are ideal for chilly nights.

At Holiday Parties

• Serve these chewy maple pumpkin cookies at holiday parties to impress your guests. They’re not only delicious but also add a seasonal touch to your dessert table.

How to Perfect chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Perfecting your chewy maple pumpkin cookies requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Here’s how you can elevate them to the next level.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 8 hours helps prevent spreading, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.

• Use Fresh Spices: Opt for fresh pumpkin spice or chai blend to enhance flavor. Fresh spices pack more punch than older ones.

• Brown Your Butter: Browning the butter adds depth and nuttiness to the cookie flavor, making them irresistibly tasty.

• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is accurately calibrated. An incorrect temperature can lead to overbaking or underbaking.

• Cool Before Storing: Always let the cookies cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This keeps them chewy longer.

Best Side Dishes for chewy maple pumpkin cookies

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing their delicious fall flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Hot Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider alongside for a cozy, autumnal drink.
2. Pumpkin Spice Latte: A classic choice that complements the cookie’s flavors perfectly; make it homemade for an extra treat!
3. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and balances the cookie’s sweetness.
4. Nutty Granola: Pair with crunchy granola for a delightful textural contrast that enhances each bite.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, especially creamy varieties, brings out the richness of the cookie.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with apples and pears offers freshness that complements the dense cookie texture.
7. Whipped Cream Dip: A light whipped cream dip can add an airy touch and makes for an interactive dessert experience.
8. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for an additional layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making chewy maple pumpkin cookies, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using warm ingredients: Make sure your butter is cooled but still liquid before mixing. Warm ingredients can alter the texture of your cookies.
• Not chilling the dough: Chilling the dough for at least 8 hours helps prevent spreading during baking. Skipping this step can lead to flat cookies.
• Overmixing the dough: Stir just until combined after adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can create tough cookies instead of chewy ones.
• Ignoring measurements: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour. Incorrect amounts can impact the cookie’s texture and flavor.
• Skipping the spice adjustment: Taste your sugar spice mix before rolling the cookies. Adjusting spices to your liking is key for perfect flavor balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chewy maple pumpkin cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating chewy maple pumpkin cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about chewy maple pumpkin cookies.

Can I use regular butter instead of European style?

Yes, you can use regular unsalted butter, but European style adds a richer flavor due to its higher fat content.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden while the centers appear slightly underbaked. They will continue cooking as they cool.

Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned?

Yes, but ensure that it is well-drained and pureed smoothly, as excess moisture can affect texture.

How should I store leftover chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any fall gathering. Their unique flavors and chewy texture make them irresistible. Feel free to customize with nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste!