chewy maple pumpkin cookies
these chewy maple pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. With their soft, chewy texture and rich flavors, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy gathering or a festive celebration. The combination of maple syrup and pumpkin creates a sweet and buttery cookie that’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of maple syrup and pumpkin gives these cookies a unique taste that embodies the spirit of autumn.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delightful treats without stress.
- Versatile Treat: Ideal for snacks, desserts, or parties, you can enjoy these cookies anytime.
- Chewy Texture: Achieve the perfect chewiness that makes each bite satisfying and enjoyable.
- Fall Favorite: These cookies are a must-have for your autumn baking lineup, making them a seasonal favorite.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. This will make the baking process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
- Whisk: Helps in evenly mixing dry ingredients and incorporating air into the batter.
- Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking cookies to perfection.

Ingredients
To make these chewy maple pumpkin cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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
How to Make chewy maple pumpkin cookies
Step 1: Make Brown Butter
- Begin by melting your butter in a clear heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat.
- Once it starts to foam, whisk continuously until you see brown bits forming at the bottom.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a clean bowl to cool for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Pumpkin Puree
- Lay 2-3 paper towels across a wide shallow bowl.
- Scoop a generous 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin onto the paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
- Before using it in your recipe, squeeze out any remaining water from the pumpkin.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, spice blend of choice, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, stir together the cooled brown butter, light brown sugar, and pure maple syrup until mixed thoroughly.
Step 5: Add Egg Yolk
- Stir in the room temperature egg yolk until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Incorporate Pumpkin and Extracts
- Mix in the blotted pumpkin puree along with vanilla extract and optional maple extract until well blended.
Step 7: Combine Dry with Wet Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula until just combined.
Step 8: Chill Dough
- Cover your dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 9: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Line one or two large cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Step 10: Prepare Sugar Coating
- In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar with the remaining spice blend until well combined.
Step 11: Scoop & Coat Dough Balls
- Using a 2-inch cookie scoop, portion out dough balls.
- Roll each ball in the spiced sugar mixture before placing on your baking sheet spaced about 2-3 inches apart.
Step 12: Bake Cookies
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for about 12-14 minutes.
- At around nine minutes in, check if they look puffier than desired; if so, gently bang the pan against the oven rack to flatten slightly before finishing baking.
Step 13: Cool Cookies
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 3-5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your homemade chewy maple pumpkin cookies! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
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 enhance your cookie experience.
With Hot Beverages
- Coffee: The warm, rich flavors of coffee complement the sweet spices in the cookies beautifully.
- Tea: A nice cup of chai or spiced tea adds an aromatic touch that pairs well with the cookies’ flavors.
- Hot Chocolate: For a sweet treat, serve these cookies alongside a mug of creamy hot chocolate.
As Dessert Platters
- Cookie Platter: Arrange these cookies on a platter with other seasonal treats for a colorful dessert display.
- Accompanied by Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delicious contrast in textures and temperatures.
For Celebrations
- Party Favors: Package them in cute bags as take-home treats for guests at your next gathering.
- Gift Baskets: Add to a homemade gift basket along with other baked goods for friends and family.
How to Perfect chewy maple pumpkin cookies
To ensure your chewy maple pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Cooled Brown Butter: Allow the brown butter to cool before combining it with other wet ingredients to prevent cooking the eggs.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough overnight for enhanced flavor and better cookie texture.
- Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies during baking; they should be slightly puffy but not overdone for that perfect chewiness.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the spice blend according to your taste preferences; more spice can enhance the flavor profile.
- Store Properly: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to retain their softness and freshness.
Best Side Dishes for chewy maple pumpkin cookies
If you’re looking to create a full spread around your chewy maple pumpkin cookies, consider these delightful side dishes that complement their flavors perfectly.
- Cinnamon Roasted Apples: Sweet apples roasted with cinnamon create a warm, comforting side that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavors.
- Spiced Nuts: A mix of spiced nuts adds crunch and flavor, making them an excellent snack alongside the soft cookies.
- Creamy Pumpkin Soup: A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup serves as a lovely appetizer before enjoying the cookies as dessert.
- Maple Glazed Carrots: These sweet carrots bring out similar flavors from the cookies, creating harmony on your plate.
- Fall Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and pecans offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Board: Include a cheese board with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a sophisticated pairing option that balances sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking chewy maple pumpkin cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can lead to cookies that spread too much. Always chill the dough for at least 8 hours to achieve the perfect texture.
- Using too much flour: Measuring flour incorrectly can result in dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for accuracy.
- Overbaking: Baking for too long can make your cookies hard instead of chewy. Set a timer and check for doneness around 10 minutes.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold eggs or butter can affect how well they incorporate. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- Neglecting to blot pumpkin: Excess moisture from canned pumpkin can make your cookies soggy. Always blot the pumpkin well before adding it to the batter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store chewy maple pumpkin cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing chewy maple pumpkin cookies
- Place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating chewy maple pumpkin cookies
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on high until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm them briefly in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about chewy maple pumpkin cookies:
What makes chewy maple pumpkin cookies chewy?
The combination of brown butter and proper baking time contributes to their chewy texture, creating a soft center and slightly crisp edges.
Can I use other spices in these chewy maple pumpkin cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spice blends like ginger or nutmeg for added flavor.
How should I store leftover chewy maple pumpkin cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for up to five days.
Can I freeze these chewy maple pumpkin cookies?
Yes! These cookies freeze well. Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
What is the best way to serve chewy maple pumpkin cookies?
They are delicious served warm with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for fall gatherings!
Final Thoughts
These chewy maple pumpkin cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their rich flavors make them perfect for celebrations or cozy snacks at home. Feel free to customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts for an extra crunch!
Chewy Maple Pumpkin Cookies
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of chewy maple pumpkin cookies that perfectly capture the essence of fall. These delightful treats boast a soft and chewy texture, enriched with the sweet notes of pure maple syrup and pumpkin puree. Ideal for any occasion, from cozy gatherings to festive celebrations, these cookies are sure to impress everyone who takes a bite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 34 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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 for coating
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin or chai spice blend for coating
Instructions
- 1. Melt and cool the unsalted butter until liquid and slightly browned.
- 2. Blot canned pumpkin with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- 3. In one bowl, whisk together flour, spice blend, baking soda, and salt.
- 4. In another bowl, combine cooled butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup.
- 5. Mix in egg yolk, then add pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
- 6. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients until just combined.
- 7. Chill dough for at least 8 hours.
- 8. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C), line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- 9. Roll chilled dough into balls and coat in spiced sugar mixture before placing on baking sheets.
- 10. Bake for 12-14 minutes until puffed; allow cooling on sheets before transferring.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg