Classic CakesHoliday

Chewy Brown Butter Maple Pumpkin Cookies

Updated on 5 min read

When the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, there’s something irresistibly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home. Chewy Brown Butter Maple Pumpkin Cookies beautifully capture the essence of fall, combining rich flavors of brown butter, warm spices, and the sweet, earthy notes of pumpkin. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

These cookies are more than just a seasonal treat; they’re a perfect blend of chewy texture and rich flavors. The brown butter adds a nutty depth, while the maple syrup and pumpkin bring a delightful sweetness. With a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, each bite feels like a warm hug. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile, making them easy to adapt for different tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

To whip up a batch of Chewy Brown Butter Maple Pumpkin Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter (browned)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
  • 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup

Optional Mix-Ins:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins

Step-by-Step Directions for Preparation

Step 1: Brown the Butter

  1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir frequently to ensure it melts evenly.
  2. Brown the Butter: Continue cooking the butter for about 5-7 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
  3. Cool the Butter: Once browned, pour the butter into a mixing bowl and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

  1. Mix Wet Ingredients: To the cooled brown butter, add the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Mix until well combined.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, spices, and salt.
  3. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

  1. Refrigerate: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape and improves the texture.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  3. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
  4. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, which is ideal for chewy cookies.
  5. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk, spiced chai, or pumpkin spice latte for a delightful pairing.
  • For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a maple glaze.

Storage Tips

  • Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

Creative Variations

  1. Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies: Add 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, sweet contrast to the pumpkin.
  2. Nutty Delight: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
  3. Cranberry Pumpkin Cookies: Mix in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries for a tart twist that complements the sweetness.
  4. Maple Glazed Cookies: After baking, drizzle a simple maple glaze made from powdered sugar and maple syrup over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.
  5. Spiced Pumpkin Cookies: Increase the spice level by adding 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger and 1/4 teaspoon of allspice for a more robust flavor.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

A: Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Make sure it’s well-drained and cooked until soft for the best results.

Q: Why is my cookie dough so sticky?

A: Cookie dough can be sticky depending on the moisture content of your pumpkin puree or if it hasn’t chilled long enough. If it’s too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

A: Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Q: How can I ensure my cookies stay chewy?

A: Avoid overbaking and let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. The cookies will continue to set while cooling.

Q: What’s the best way to thaw frozen cookies?

A: The best way to thaw is to leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer, you can also warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

Conclusion

Chewy Brown Butter Maple Pumpkin Cookies are not just a delightful treat; they embody the flavors of fall and the warmth of home baking. With their chewy texture and rich flavor profile, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, from cozy nights in to festive gatherings. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy the process of creating these delicious cookies that everyone will love! Happy baking!