why make this recipe

Maple Pumpkin Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the warm flavors of pumpkin, maple syrup, and spices. They are soft, chewy, and full of autumn goodness. These cookies are not only easy to make but also bring a cozy feel to any gathering or afternoon snack. Plus, the maple glaze adds a sweet finishing touch that makes them irresistible!

how to make Maple Pumpkin Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup (for glaze)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup until light and fluffy.
3. Add the pumpkin puree and egg. Mix until well combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. While cookies cool, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar and maple syrup until smooth. Drizzle over cookies before serving.

how to serve Maple Pumpkin Cookies

Maple Pumpkin Cookies can be served warm or at room temperature. They make a wonderful addition to a fall-themed dessert platter or can be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. These cookies are lovely for any casual gathering, school events, or simply as a sweet treat at home.

how to store Maple Pumpkin Cookies

To keep your Maple Pumpkin Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for about 3-5 days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to let them cool completely before freezing and thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

tips to make Maple Pumpkin Cookies

• Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid extra spices and sugars.
• For a little extra crunch, you can add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough.
• If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking.

variation

For a fun twist, you can try adding white chocolate chips or chopped pecans to the cookie dough. Another variation is to replace the maple syrup in the glaze with honey for a different sweetness.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth.

2. What can I use instead of maple syrup?
You can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute for maple syrup, but it may change the flavor slightly.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the other ingredients are also gluten-free.

4. How can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?
To make the glaze thicker, add more powdered sugar. To make it thinner, add a little more maple syrup. Adjust it to your desired consistency.