Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, then you’ve stumbled upon a gem—Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies! These cookies are one of my all-time favorites. The combination of rich brown butter, sweet maple syrup, and creamy pumpkin puree creates a flavor explosion that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. They’re perfect for sharing with friends during gatherings or enjoying with a cup of coffee after dinner. Trust me, once you try these delightful cookies, they’ll become your go-to recipe for autumn!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous baking sessions!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the chewy texture and delicious flavors. You’ll be the star of your next family gathering!
• Make-ahead convenience: These cookies store well, so you can bake them in advance and enjoy their fresh taste throughout the week.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of brown butter and maple syrup is simply divine. Each bite is filled with the comforting flavors of fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies is easy with wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup (220g) unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups (280g) dark brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg yolk
• 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup (80g) pumpkin puree
• 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

For the Topping

• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and add your own twist to these cookies.

• Add chocolate chips: Mix in some dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for an extra indulgent touch.
• Incorporate nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture.
• Swap the spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different spices like ginger or nutmeg for unique flavor combinations.
• Use different sweeteners: Experiment with honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup for an interesting flavor profile.

How to Make Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Start by browning the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir it frequently until it turns amber in color and smells nutty. This step is crucial as it deepens the flavor of your cookies, giving them that lovely richness everyone will love!

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

While your butter cools slightly, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick during baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. This simple step ensures that your spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Combine Brown Sugar and Butter

In another mixing bowl, combine dark brown sugar with your chilled brown butter until it becomes clumpy. This mixture should be thick but not too dry—it’s essential for creating those chewy cookie textures we crave!

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the egg yolk, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree to the brown sugar mixture. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor that makes these cookies so special.

Step 6: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this helps maintain that soft texture we all love in chewy cookies!

Step 7: Shape Your Cookies

Scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Then roll each ball in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them on the prepared baking sheet. This adds an extra layer of sweetness right on top!

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake your cookies for about 12–15 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

And there you have it—your very own batch of Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies! Enjoy each delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

These little cookies are sure to impress, and with a few expert tips, you can make them even more delightful!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Fresh pumpkin puree enhances the flavor of your cookies, making them taste more vibrant and seasonal. If possible, roast your own pumpkin for an extra boost in taste!

• Chill your dough: If the cookie dough feels too soft, chilling it for about 30 minutes will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking, resulting in perfectly chewy centers and crisp edges.

• Don’t skip the browning: Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates these cookies beyond the ordinary. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning; you’ll want that beautiful amber color!

• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Pecans or walnuts complement the pumpkin beautifully!

• Adjust baking time: Every oven is different! Start checking the cookies at around 10 minutes, and remove them once the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked for that perfect chewiness.

How to Serve Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Presenting them well can turn a simple treat into an impressive dessert centerpiece!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness to each cookie.
• Maple drizzle: A homemade maple glaze drizzled over the top infuses additional flavor and makes them look irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: This comforting beverage complements the warm spices in your cookies and brings out their autumn essence.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside these cookies provides a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors, creating a harmonious fall-inspired meal.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with apples, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the sweetness of the cookies, making for a well-rounded dining experience.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’ll create an inviting atmosphere that celebrates the flavors of fall! Enjoy sharing these Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies with loved ones during cozy gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time, ensuring you always have a warm, delicious treat on hand. Here’s how to store and preserve their delightful flavor:

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies:

Can I use other types of sugar in this recipe?

While dark brown sugar gives these cookies their rich flavor, you can substitute light brown sugar if needed. Just remember that it may alter the taste slightly.

How do I prevent my Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter is properly browned and cooled before mixing it with the sugars. If your dough feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before scooping.

What makes these Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies chewy?

The combination of brown sugar and pumpkin puree contributes to their chewy texture. Additionally, not overmixing the dough helps maintain that desirable chewiness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these delightful Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies! They embody the warm flavors of fall—perfect for sharing or enjoying during cozy evenings at home. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s not just about baking but creating memories filled with warmth and sweetness. Enjoy every bite!