Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

If you’re looking for a way to embrace the essence of fall, these Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are just the ticket! Imagine cozy evenings spent with warm cookies fresh from the oven, filling your home with the inviting aroma of pumpkin and spices. These cookies are not just delicious; they bring a touch of warmth and joy that makes any gathering special—be it family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends.

What makes this recipe truly special is the combination of brown butter, maple syrup, and pumpkin puree. The nutty flavor of brown butter enhances the sweetness of maple, while the pumpkin adds moisture and a delightful richness. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why these cookies are a favorite in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to prepare: With just a few easy steps, you’ll have delicious cookies ready in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves a chewy cookie, especially when it’s packed with fall flavors.
• Perfect for sharing: These cookies make great gifts for neighbors or treats for parties.
• Versatile options: Feel free to mix in your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake them ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies use simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you need to gather:

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

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste! Here are some fun variations to explore:

• Add chocolate chips: For a rich twist, fold in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the dough.
• Incorporate nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for an even spicier cookie experience.
• Make them gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for delicious results.

How to Make Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Start by browning your unsalted butter until it turns an amber color. This step is crucial because browning brings out a rich, nutty flavor that elevates these cookies. Once done, chill the butter slightly so it combines well with other ingredients.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

While your butter cools, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Also, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Mixing these well ensures that every cookie will have that perfect spice blend throughout.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, combine the dark brown sugar and chilled brown butter until it becomes clumpy. Then add in the egg yolk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. Mix until everything is smooth—this mixture will be full of delicious flavor!

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Now it’s time to fold your dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be gentle here! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than soft and chewy ones.

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Scoop out portions of dough into balls. For an extra treat, roll them in a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon before placing them on your prepared baking sheet. This adds a lovely sweetness on top!

Step 7: Bake Them Up!

Pop those beauties into your preheated oven! Bake for about 12–15 minutes until the edges are set but still soft in the center. This will give you that perfectly chewy texture we all crave.

Enjoy making these delightful Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies! Each bite is sure to be filled with warmth and happiness.

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies can be a breeze with a few helpful tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your egg yolk and pumpkin puree to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and promotes even baking.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: If your dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape while baking, resulting in chewy centers.
• Measure flour accurately: For best results, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents packing too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies.
• Add mix-ins for extra flavor: Consider folding in chocolate chips or chopped nuts after combining wet and dry ingredients. These additions add texture and enhance the overall taste of your cookies.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Cookies are done when the edges are set but the centers are still soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

How to Serve Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

These Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for sharing! Here are some fun ideas on how to present them beautifully for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Sprinkling of sea salt: A light dusting of flaky sea salt just before serving enhances the sweetness of the cookies and adds a lovely contrast.
• Whipped cream topping: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can transform these cookies into an indulgent treat. It adds creaminess that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavors.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: The warm spices in apple cider complement the flavors of pumpkin perfectly, making it a comforting drink to enjoy alongside your cookies.
• Autumn salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cranberries, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the sweetness of the cookies while introducing crunchy textures.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delightful dessert experience that contrasts warm and cold beautifully.
• Cheese platter: Pairing your cookies with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can offer an interesting savory counterpoint that enhances their sweet flavors.

Enjoy sharing these scrumptious treats while creating cozy memories during this beautiful season!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week or share them with loved ones. Here’s how to store and preserve their delightful flavor.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• For optimal freshness, separate layers with parchment paper.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen; just ensure they’re well-wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container.
• Cookies can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen baked cookies: thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
• For cookie dough, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful cookies!

Can I use different types of sugar in Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies?

Absolutely! While dark brown sugar adds richness, you can substitute light brown sugar or granulated sugar if needed. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.

How should I store Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’d like them to last longer, consider freezing either the baked cookies or the dough!

Can I add chocolate chips to my Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies?

Definitely! Chocolate chips will add extra sweetness and texture. Mix in about 1 cup of your favorite dairy-free chocolate chips when combining the wet ingredients for a delicious twist.

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

The combination of pumpkin puree and brown butter creates a moist, chewy texture that makes each bite delightful. Be sure not to overbake them for maximum chewiness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Brown Butter and Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies as much as I do! They capture all the cozy flavors of fall while being incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re savoring them with friends or enjoying a quiet moment with a warm drink, these cookies are sure to bring warmth and happiness into your home. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!