Autumn Bliss in Each Bite (Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies)

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, nothing says “fall is here” quite like a batch of warm, chewy maple pumpkin cookies. These delightful treats are not just cookies; they’re little bites of autumn magic! With a soft, buttery texture and a sweet, spicy sugar coating, each cookie is infused with the essence of pumpkin and a hint of maple syrup that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re baking for a cozy gathering, a festive celebration, or just to enjoy with your favorite warm beverage, these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for these scrumptious cookies! Here’s why they’ll become a staple in your autumn baking repertoire:

– Big, Bold Flavors: The combination of pumpkin, maple syrup, and warm spices creates a symphony of fall flavors that’s simply irresistible.
– Chewy Perfection: Say goodbye to dry cookies! These treats boast a chewy texture that keeps you coming back for more.
– Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be whipping up these cookies like a pro in no time!
– Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch for friends and family, or keep them all to yourself (we won’t tell!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! For these chewy maple pumpkin cookies, you’ll need a few simple staples, plus some flavor game-changers that take them over the top. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 2 1/4 cups (270g) all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons pumpkin or chai spice blend
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (226g) European-style unsalted butter, browned and cooled (but still liquid)
– 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar
– 1/3 cup (79ml) pure maple syrup
– 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
– 1/2 cup (125g) canned pumpkin, blotted
– 2 teaspoons (10ml) vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) maple extract, optional
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin or chai spice blend

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

The beauty of these chewy maple pumpkin cookies is their versatility! Here are some creative variations to make this recipe your own:

– Go Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to create a delicious gluten-free version.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture and added nutrition.
– Make it Spicier: Increase the spice blend for an extra kick or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat!
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different extracts, like almond or hazelnut, to switch up the flavor profile.
– Cheese it Up: Fold in some cream cheese or mascarpone for a rich, creamy twist that enhances the flavor.

How to Make Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies

Ready to make your kitchen smell like a cozy autumn bakery? Follow these steps to whip up your chewy maple pumpkin cookies:

Step 1: Create the Brown Butter

Start by making your brown butter about an hour before baking. Melt the butter in a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat, whisking continuously as it foams. Keep whisking until golden brown bits form at the bottom, then transfer it to a clean bowl and let it sit until it cools to room temperature, about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin

Place 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree on a few paper towels in a shallow bowl. Let it sit to absorb excess moisture, then squeeze gently to remove any additional water before using it in the cookie dough.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin spice blend, baking soda, and salt until well mixed. Set aside for later.

Step 4: Mix Brown Butter and Sugars

In another large bowl, mix the cooled brown butter with the light brown sugar and maple syrup until fully combined and glossy.

Step 5: Add Egg Yolk

Stir in the egg yolk until it’s well incorporated into the mixture.

Step 6: Incorporate the Pumpkin and Extracts

Add the blotted pumpkin, vanilla extract, and optional maple extract to the bowl, and stir until everything is beautifully blended.

Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined—don’t overmix!

Step 8: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for the best texture!

Step 9: Preheat and Prepare

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a couple of cookie sheets with parchment paper. Let the dough sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before scooping.

Step 10: Mix Sugar and Spice

In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar with an extra pinch of your spice blend. Adjust to taste for the perfect sweetness and warmth.

Step 11: Shape the Cookies

Using a 2-inch cookie scoop, scoop dough and roll each ball in the spiced sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 12: Bake the Cookies

Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spaced 2-3 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes. Check at 9-10 minutes—if they need a little help, give the pan a firm bang to flatten them slightly before continuing to bake.

Step 13: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 3-5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Making Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies

– Brown Butter is Key: Don’t rush the browning process; it adds a deep, nutty flavor that makes these cookies extraordinary.
– Don’t Skimp on Chilling Time: Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the chewiness!
– Check for Doneness: Remember, cookies continue to cook a little after being removed from the oven; they should look slightly underbaked before cooling.
– Storage Matters: Keep the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their chewy freshness for days!

How to Serve Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies

Garnishes

For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle the cookies with a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple maple glaze for extra sweetness.

Side Dishes

Pair these delightful cookies with a steaming cup of chai tea, spiced apple cider, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cookies on a rustic wooden platter for a charming fall vibe, or package them in cute boxes tied with twine for the perfect gift!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your chewy maple pumpkin cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for even longer freshness!

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. Enjoy them for up to three months!

Reheating

For the ultimate indulgence, reheat the cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds or pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked goodness.

FAQs

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of plain pumpkin puree?
It’s best to use plain pumpkin puree for this recipe to control the sweetness and spice levels, but if you love pumpkin pie filling, go for it! Just reduce the added spices.

How do I make these gluten-free?
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, and you’ll still enjoy that chewy texture!

Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Absolutely! The cookie dough can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Are these cookies soft or crunchy?
These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are all about that soft, chewy texture—perfect for those who love a cookie that melts in your mouth!

Final Thoughts

With their rich flavors and warm spices, chewy maple pumpkin cookies are the embodiment of autumn comfort. Whether you’re savoring them with a warm beverage or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and cozy vibes. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and bake up some happiness today! Happy baking! 🍂✨