Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies

These Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies are a delightful treat that capture the essence of fall. With a soft and chewy texture, they are perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of coffee. The blend of maple syrup and pumpkin creates a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and comforting. You’ll find these cookies not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a must-try this season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fall Flavor: These cookies are infused with rich pumpkin and warm spices, making them ideal for autumn cravings.
• Chewy Texture: The combination of brown butter and sugar gives these cookies their signature chewiness.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, holiday desserts, or an everyday snack.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, you can whip them up anytime.
• Easy to Make: The step-by-step instructions make baking these cookies enjoyable for all skill levels.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Gathering your equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Cookie scoop: Helps ensure uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
• Baking sheets: Provides a flat surface for cookies to bake evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

For these delicious chewy maple pumpkin cookies, you will need the following 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
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin or chai spice blend

How to Make Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Make the Brown Butter

To start, prepare your brown butter about an hour before making the cookies.

1. Melt the butter in a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat.
2. Once it starts to foam, whisk continuously until brown bits form at the bottom.
3. Remove from heat and pour into a clean bowl to cool for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Pumpkin Puree

Next, you’ll want to prepare your pumpkin puree to remove excess moisture.

1. Lay 2-3 paper towels across a shallow bowl.
2. Scoop out about 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree onto the towels.
3. Allow the paper towels to absorb excess water; then squeeze out any remaining moisture before using it in your recipe.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Now let’s combine the dry ingredients:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, spice blend, baking soda, and salt until well blended.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

It’s time to mix together those delicious wet ingredients.

1. In another bowl, stir together the cooled brown butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup until smooth.
2. Add in the egg yolk and mix until fully combined.
3. Stir in the blotted pumpkin along with the vanilla extract and optional maple extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Next, we will bring everything together:

1. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients.
2. Stir just until combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Chill Dough

Once mixed, it’s important to let your dough chill:

1. Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap.
2. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

When you’re ready to bake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 8: Prepare Sugar Mixture

While waiting for your dough to warm slightly at room temperature:

1. Combine granulated sugar with remaining spice blend in a small bowl.

Step 9: Form Cookies

Now it’s time to shape those scrumptious cookies:

1. Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough balls.
2. Roll each one in the spiced sugar mixture until well coated.
3. Place them on prepared baking sheets about 2-3 inches apart.

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Finally, let’s bake!

1. Bake at preheated temperature for about 12-14 minutes.
2. Check around the halfway mark; if puffier than desired, gently bang the pan against the oven rack before finishing baking.

Step 11: Cool Cookies

After baking:

1. Let cookies cool on baking sheets for about 3-5 minutes before transferring them onto cooling racks to cool completely.

Enjoy your deliciously chewy maple pumpkin cookies as a treat that perfectly embodies fall!

How to Serve Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies

Chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for any fall gathering or cozy evening at home. Here are some delightful ways to serve and enjoy these treats.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee: Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a classic combination that enhances their flavors.
• Spiced Chai Latte: The spices in chai complement the pumpkin flavors beautifully, making for a comforting drink.
• Hot Chocolate: A rich hot chocolate adds sweetness and warmth, perfect for chilly days.

As Dessert Plates

• Dessert Platter: Arrange cookies alongside other fall desserts like pumpkin pie or pecan bars for a festive dessert spread.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich filled with your favorite flavor, such as vanilla or maple.

For Celebrations

• Holiday Parties: Serve these chewy maple pumpkin cookies as part of your holiday cookie exchange or family gatherings.
• Gift Bags: Package them in cute bags as gifts for friends and family during the fall season.

How to Perfect Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies

Achieving the ideal chewy texture and flavor in your chewy maple pumpkin cookies is easier than you think. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough overnight enhances the flavor and helps achieve a chewier texture.
• Use European Style Butter: This type of butter has a higher fat content, which creates richer and more flavorful cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies; this keeps them soft and chewy.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven; underbaking slightly will ensure they stay chewy.
• Squeeze Excess Water from Pumpkin: Removing extra moisture from canned pumpkin helps prevent soggy cookies.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice blend according to your taste preferences for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies

While chewy maple pumpkin cookies can stand alone, pairing them with sides can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great side dish ideas.

1. Cinnamon Whipped Cream: A dollop of this creamy topping adds a light sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices in the cookies.
2. Maple Glazed Pecans: These crunchy nuts provide a delightful contrast in texture and enhance the overall maple flavor.
3. Apple Cider: Warm or chilled apple cider complements the fall flavors perfectly, making it an ideal drink choice.
4. Cheese Board: Incorporate mild cheeses like Brie or Gouda, which balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Pumpkin Spice Granola: This crunchy side can be sprinkled over yogurt as a parfait that matches well with cookie flavors.
6. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The saltiness of pretzels dipped in chocolate offers a fun sweet-salty combination alongside the cookies.
7. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream transforms your cookie into an indulgent dessert experience.
8. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits add brightness and freshness, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking chewy maple pumpkin cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls you should steer clear of.

• Using Too Much Pumpkin: Adding too much pumpkin can lead to overly moist cookies. Make sure to measure accurately and blot excess moisture from the pumpkin puree before using it.
• Skipping the Brown Butter: The flavor of these cookies is enhanced by brown butter. Don’t rush this step; take the time to let the butter brown properly for a richer taste.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Chilling the dough helps develop flavors and ensures a chewier texture. Avoid skipping this step; refrigerate the dough for at least 8 hours.
• Overbaking the Cookies: Overbaking can result in dry cookies. Keep an eye on them during baking, and remember they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
• Ignoring Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg yolk is at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter, leading to better cookie consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chewy maple pumpkin cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to one week in the fridge, keeping their chewy texture.

Freezing Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying again.

Reheating Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C). Warm cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid for about 1-2 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about chewy maple pumpkin cookies that may help you out.

What makes chewy maple pumpkin cookies chewy?

The combination of brown butter, proper chilling time, and not overbaking contributes to their chewy texture.

Can I use other spices instead of pumpkin spice?

Absolutely! You can substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, or even chai spice for different flavor profiles in your chewy maple pumpkin cookies.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Cookies should look puffy but slightly soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?

Yes! Feel free to customize your chewy maple pumpkin cookies by adding chocolate chips or nuts according to your taste preferences.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store leftover chewy maple pumpkin cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you’re keeping them longer.

Final Thoughts

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home, you can easily customize them with your favorite spices or mix-ins. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm bite of autumn!