Name: Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies for Cozy Fall Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Tip: Use Libby’s canned pumpkin for consistent results; drain excess liquid if necessary.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Brown it to enhance the nutty notes.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Adjust the ratio based on your sweetness preference.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Always spoon and level flour to avoid excess and thick dough.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Helps cookies rise for a fluffy interior.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adjust spices to your personal taste.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Adjust spices to your personal taste.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger (Adjust spices to your personal taste.); 1 large Egg (Binds ingredients and adds moisture.); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Mix with cinnamon for a delightful finish.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (A sprinkle on top makes them extra special.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Use generously to enhance fall vibes.)

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The warm scent of autumn wafts through the air as I pull a tray of Chewy Brown Butter & Maple Pumpkin Cookies from the oven. There’s something magical about combining rich, nutty brown butter with the soft, cozy flavor of pumpkin, creating cookies that whisper comfort in every bite. This recipe not only brings a chewy texture that keeps you reaching for more, but it also simplifies your baking experience—no chilling required! Perfect for those busy fall days when time is short, these cookies make for a delightful treat to share with friends or savor with a warm cup of coffee. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of these delightful cookies?

Why are these cookies a fall must?

Chewy, Irresistible Texture: Each bite of these cookies is a heavenly mix of chewy edges and a soft center, creating a delightful experience that’s simply hard to resist.

Warm, Flavorful Spices: Infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, these cookies burst with the cozy flavors of fall, making them the ideal treat for seasonal gatherings.

Quick & Easy Baking: With no chilling required, you can whip up a batch of these Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies in no time. Perfect for busy days when you want something homemade!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether you’re sharing them at a potluck or enjoying them solo with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste them.

Optional Twists: Want to mix things up? Add chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat or try substituting half the pumpkin with applesauce for a fun twist. This recipe guarantees fun variations while keeping it simple, like my Lemon Raspberry Cookies.

Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and flavor; Tip: Use Libby’s canned pumpkin for consistent results; drain excess liquid if necessary.
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and flavor; Brown it to enhance the nutty notes.
Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and caramel flavor; Light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; Adjust the ratio based on your sweetness preference.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; Always spoon and level flour to avoid excess and thick dough.
Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise for a fluffy interior.
Salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger – Add warm spice notes characteristic of fall; Adjust spices to your personal taste.
Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture.

For the Coating

Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the outer layer; Mix with cinnamon for a delightful finish.
Brown Sugar – Enhances the caramel notes; A sprinkle on top makes them extra special.
Ground Cinnamon – Boosts the cozy flavor profile; Use generously to enhance fall vibes.

These ingredients combine to create the perfect Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies, making them a guaranteed hit for your fall gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the unsalted butter. Stir often as it melts, watching closely for it to turn a rich golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. You’ll notice a nutty aroma filling your kitchen, indicating that the brown butter is ready. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature before mixing.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat these together until the mixture is creamy and well-combined. Add the pumpkin puree and egg, mixing until everything is smooth and integrated. This sweet and silky batter forms the base of your Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This dry mix ensures even distribution of baking soda and spices throughout the dough. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies chewy.

Step 4: Scoop & Coat
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, form balls of dough and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and additional cinnamon. Roll each dough ball in this mixture to coat, creating a sweet crust. Leave enough space between the dough balls to allow for spreading while baking.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for the cookies. Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear slightly puffy. They might look a bit underdone, but they will continue to cook as they cool. The aroma of your Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies will fill your home!

Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to set up perfectly. Afterward, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the delightful chewy texture as you savor these irresistible treats!

How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and freshness.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate them to extend their lifespan; they will last about a week in the fridge, though they may lose a bit of chewiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a warm treat, place them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds, bringing back that delightful chewy consistency!

Expert Tips for Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

• Temperature Matters: Ensure the browned butter is cooled to room temperature before mixing; hot butter can cause the cookies to spread too much.

• Accurate Measurements: Use the spoon and level method for measuring flour to avoid overly thick dough; too much flour can affect chewiness.

• Uniform Sizing: Use a cookie scoop to create evenly sized dough balls, allowing for consistent baking and texture in your Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies.

• Bake Just Right: For that perfect chewy center, take the cookies out while they still look slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool.

• Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices according to your personal taste for a more customized fall flavor profile; enjoy the joy of baking!

Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies: Customization Ideas

Baking is a journey, and with these cookies, you have the freedom to explore delightful variations that enhance your autumn experience!

Applesauce Twist: Substitute half of the pumpkin with applesauce for a fruity flavor. This adds moisture while giving the cookies a delightful apple essence.
Nutty Delights: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a satisfying crunch. The nuts will add an extra layer of texture, perfectly complementing the chewy softness.
Chocolate Heaven: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a dessert that leans into indulgence. The rich chocolate harmonizes beautifully with the pumpkin and spices, creating a decadent experience.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. You won’t lose any of that beloved chewiness!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to infuse some heat into the flavor profile. This unexpected twist will surprise and delight those with a taste for adventure.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a maple syrup glaze over the cooled cookies for an extra sweet touch. The glaze will enhance all the rich flavors and give them a beautiful finish.
Pumpkin Spice Lovers: Increase the quantity of warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger) for an even richer taste. The stronger spice blend will make your kitchen smell like a cozy autumn bakery.

Feel free to adapt these variations to your heart’s content! Each twist tells your own unique baking story, much like my Biscoff Cookie Butter Cinnamon Rolls or Butter Chicken Comfort that bring warmth to your kitchen. Let your creativity shine!

Make Ahead Options

These Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients, form the dough balls, and then coat them in the sugar-cinnamon mixture. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful cookies, just bake them straight from the fridge; there’s no need to thaw, ensuring they remain just as delicious and chewy. This simple prep means you can have warm, fresh cookies ready with minimal effort on your busy day!

What to Serve with Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Elevate your autumn gatherings with delightful options that beautifully complement the sweet, nutty flavors of these cookies.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety ice cream enhances the warm spices and adds a cooling contrast to the chewy texture. Serve it as an indulgent treat!
Spiced Chai Latte: The fragrant spices of chai resonate with the pumpkin cookies, ensuring each sip amplifies the cozy flavors. Sipping this combination on a crisp evening is pure bliss.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel over the cookies adds an extra layer of sweetness that harmonizes perfectly with the brown butter and maple notes. It’s a deliciously decadent touch!
Maple-Glazed Pecan Pie: A slice of pecan pie brings a sweet crunch that pairs beautifully with the chewy goodness of the cookies. They can complement each other during dessert time wonderfully.
Autumn Salad: Fresh greens topped with roasted pumpkin seeds, cranberries, and a maple vinaigrette offer a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cookies. The textures create a lovely contrast!
Hot Apple Cider: Warm apple cider, steeped with cinnamon sticks, adds a festive touch to your cookie experience. The fruity essence intertwines harmoniously with the cookie’s flavor profile.
Pumpkin Soup: A small bowl of creamy pumpkin soup creates a lovely synergy between savory and sweet. The subtle spices in the soup reflect those in your cookies for a unified autumn feast.

Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
I highly recommend using Libby’s canned pumpkin puree for consistent results. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before using, as too much moisture can affect the cookie texture.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?
You can store your Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you refrigerate them, they can last about a week but might lose some of that delightful chewiness.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour. Once hardened, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying, or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up!

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies are spreading more than desired, it might be due to the butter being too hot when mixed or too much flour being added. Make sure your browned butter is at room temperature before mixing and use the spoon and level method to measure your flour accurately.

Are these cookies safe for pets or those with allergies?
While these cookies are absolutely delicious for us, it’s important to keep them away from pets since they contain chocolate and sugar, which aren’t safe for them. Additionally, if you or your guests have allergies, be cautious with ingredients like flour and eggs, and consider adjusting the recipe accordingly for specific dietary needs.

Can I customize the spices used in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to adjust the spices to your personal taste! If you prefer more cinnamon or want to try a pinch of allspice or clove, go for it. The key is to create a flavor profile you love, making these Brown Butter & Maple Chewy Pumpkin Cookies even more special!