chewy maple pumpkin cookies

If you’re looking for the perfect fall treat, these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are just what you need! They’re soft, sweet, and bursting with cozy pumpkin flavor that will remind you of crisp autumn days. This recipe has been a favorite in my family for years, making it a go-to for busy weeknights, festive gatherings, or simply to enjoy with a warm cup of tea. Once you take a bite, you’ll understand why they’re so beloved!

The best part? These cookies are simple to make and can easily be prepared ahead of time. So whether you’re baking for a crowd or just indulging yourself, you can whip up a batch of these chewy maple pumpkin cookies anytime!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even beginner bakers can create delicious cookies.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the warm flavors of pumpkin and maple; these cookies are sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can chill the dough overnight, making it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.
• Delicious Fall Flavor: The combination of spices and pumpkin makes every bite taste like fall.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch to share at gatherings or as a thoughtful gift for friends and neighbors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are made with wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookies

• 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

For Coating

• 1/2 c (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin or chai spice blend

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your chewy maple pumpkin cookies:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips for extra sweetness and texture.
• Nuts for Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and richness.
• Swap the Spice: Experiment with different spice blends like gingerbread or cinnamon for a unique twist.
• Frost Them Up: Top your cooled cookies with a drizzle of vegan icing or a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream.

How to Make chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Step 1: Make the Brown Butter

Start by making the brown butter about an hour before you plan to bake. It needs time to cool down after cooking. To make it, melt the butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Keep whisking until it foams and turns golden brown—this step adds a rich, nutty flavor to your cookies!

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin

Next, prepare the canned pumpkin by placing it on paper towels in a shallow bowl. This helps absorb excess moisture so your cookies don’t turn out soggy. Squeeze out any remaining water before adding it to your dough.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, your chosen spice blend, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of all dry ingredients throughout your cookie dough.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, stir together your cooled brown butter with light brown sugar and pure maple syrup until well combined. This mixture will bring sweetness and depth to your cookies.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs and Pumpkin

Add in the egg yolk along with the blotted pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and optional maple extract. Stir until smooth; this adds moisture and flavor that makes these chewy maple pumpkin cookies so delightful.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir in your dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your cookies tender.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Cover your dough tightly with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight if possible. Chilling helps develop flavors while also firming up the dough for easier scooping.

Step 8: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line one or two large cookie sheets with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and helps with even baking.

Step 9: Roll in Sugar Mixture

Mix together granulated sugar with additional spice blend used in the dough. Use a cookie scoop to portion out dough balls and roll them in this spiced sugar mixture before placing them on lined baking sheets.

Step 10: Bake Your Cookies

Bake at 350°F (177°C) for about 12-14 minutes. Check around minute ten; if they seem puffier than you’d like, gently bang the pan on the oven rack—this helps them spread beautifully while baking!

Step 11: Cool & Enjoy!

After baking, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 3-5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delicious chewy maple pumpkin cookies warm or store them for later indulgence!

Pro Tips for Making chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your chewy maple pumpkin cookies to the next level!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a more homogenous dough, ensuring that all components blend seamlessly for a chewy texture.

• Chill the dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the dough to rest in the fridge helps develop flavors and controls spreading, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.

• Check for doneness carefully: Keep an eye on your cookies around the 9-minute mark. If they look puffier than desired, a gentle bang on the oven rack can help them settle into that chewy shape.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice blend to your taste. A sprinkle of nutmeg or cardamom can add unique flavor notes that complement the pumpkin beautifully.

• Storage matters: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for several days—if they last that long!

How to Serve chewy maple pumpkin cookies

Serving these chewy maple pumpkin cookies is not only about taste but also about presentation! Here are some fun ways to enjoy them.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a charming touch and enhances visual appeal without overwhelming sweetness.
• Cinnamon stick: Nestle a cinnamon stick beside your cookies for an inviting autumn touch that hints at their delicious flavors.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: The warmth and spiced flavor of hot apple cider complement the autumn themes of these cookies perfectly.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast between warm and cold, adding extra creaminess to each bite.
• Chai latte: Pairing with a steaming chai latte enhances those cozy spices found in both the drink and the cookie, making it an ideal snack or dessert combo.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance out the richness of the cookies and provide a bright contrast with its natural sweetness.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these chewy maple pumpkin cookies in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make the dough ahead of time, or even bake a batch to enjoy later. Here’s how to store them properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Freeze cookie dough balls before baking by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Bake from frozen by adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating

• To reheat cookies, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350 F (177 C) for about 5 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Have questions about these delightful chewy maple pumpkin cookies? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use different spices in chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spice blends. Pumpkin spice or chai spice works wonderfully, but cinnamon or nutmeg could also add a lovely touch.

How can I get the best texture for my chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

For the chewiest texture, be sure not to overmix the dough once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Also, chilling the dough is key—it allows for better flavor development and texture!

Can I substitute the butter in chewy maple pumpkin cookies?

Yes! You can use dairy-free butter or coconut oil as a substitute for a dairy-free version while still achieving that lovely chewy consistency.

What makes these chewy maple pumpkin cookies special?

The combination of brown butter and pure maple syrup creates rich flavors that are simply irresistible. Plus, they’re soft and chewy—perfect for fall!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these chewy maple pumpkin cookies as much as I do! They’re not just delicious; they embody the warmth and comfort of fall. Whether you’re sharing them at gatherings or enjoying them with a cup of tea at home, they’re bound to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!