Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are the ultimate treat for fall! These cookies combine the rich flavors of maple and pumpkin with a delightful pecan crunch. They are soft, fluffy, and perfect for sharing on cozy days or at festive gatherings. Enjoy them as an afternoon snack or as a sweet ending to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and pumpkin creates a unique taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Perfectly Soft Texture: These cookies are incredibly fluffy, making them a delightful treat that melts in your mouth.
• Simple Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, ensuring you can whip them up whenever the craving strikes.
• Versatile Occasions: Ideal for autumn gatherings, holiday parties, or just a cozy night in with family.
• Delicious Icing: The maple icing adds an extra layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cookies.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie sheet
• Cooling rack
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: A variety of sizes allows you to mix wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them.
• Electric mixer or stand mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy texture by thoroughly creaming butter and sugars.
• Cookie sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking of your cookies.

Ingredients

Yield: 20 cookies

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 & ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup unsalted butter at room temperature
• ¼ cup white sugar
• ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• ⅔ cup pumpkin puree, blotted
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup chopped pecans

How to Make Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.

Step 2: Prepare Your Butter

Take the unsalted butter out of the refrigerator to soften at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes. It should be firm but will give slightly when pressed.

Step 3: Gather Ingredients

While waiting for the butter, gather all your ingredients and tools to make the process smooth.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
* Flour
* Baking powder
* Ground cloves
* Ground cinnamon
* Salt

Whisk well until fully mixed.

Step 5: Chop Pecans

Chop pecans into small pieces and divide them in half; one half will be mixed into the dough while the other half will be used for topping later.

Step 6: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using an electric mixer, cream together:
* Unsalted butter
* White sugar
* Dark brown sugar

Mix on medium speed for about 3–5 minutes. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula.

Step 7: Blot Pumpkin Puree

Place high-quality paper towels in a small bowl, add pumpkin puree, and fold edges over it to absorb excess moisture.

Step 8: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add one large egg, maple syrup, and blotted pumpkin puree to your creamed mixture. Mix on medium/high speed for about two minutes until fully combined.

Step 9: Mix Dry Ingredients Into Wet Mixture

Gradually add one third of your dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed. Repeat until everything is combined.

Step 10: Fold in Pecans

Add half of your chopped pecans into the cookie dough and gently fold them in.

Step 11: Scoop Cookie Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon measuring spoon, form balls of dough about two tablespoons each. Space them around two inches apart on a cookie sheet.

Step 12: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 13–15 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 13: Cool Cookies

Transfer baked cookies onto a cooling rack set over another cookie sheet to catch any drips from icing later.

Step 14: Make Maple Icing

In a bowl, whisk together:
* Powdered sugar
* Maple syrup
* Ground cinnamon
* Ground cloves

Mix until smooth.

Step 15: Drizzle Icing on Cookies

Once cooled, drizzle each cookie with maple icing and sprinkle remaining chopped pecans on top while the icing is still wet so they stick well.

Step 16: Enjoy!

Now you’re ready to savor these delicious Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies! Share them with friends or enjoy them as a delightful treat any time.

How to Serve Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season. They can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

Pair with a Hot Beverage

• Coffee – The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
• Tea – A warm cup of spiced chai or herbal tea brings out the cozy vibes of pumpkin cookies.
• Hot Chocolate – Indulge your sweet tooth further by pairing these cookies with creamy hot chocolate.

Serve as a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment – Add these cookies to a platter with other fall-themed treats like gingerbread or chocolate chip cookies.
• With Ice Cream – Serve warm cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an extra special dessert.

Gift Packaging

• Festive Boxes – Present these cookies in decorative boxes as homemade gifts for friends and family during holidays.
• Personalized Treat Bags – Create custom treat bags for parties or gatherings, making them easy to share.

How to Perfect Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

To ensure your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Let your butter and egg sit at room temperature to create a smoother batter that bakes evenly.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough – Mix just until combined to keep the cookies light and fluffy, avoiding dense textures.
• Blot Your Pumpkin Puree – Remove excess moisture from pumpkin puree by blotting it with paper towels; this helps avoid sogginess.
• Space Cookies Properly – Ensure enough space between cookie dough balls on the baking sheet for even spreading during baking.
• Watch Baking Time Closely – Check for doneness around 13 minutes; overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
• Cool Before Icing – Allow cookies to cool completely before adding icing to prevent melting and ensure a beautiful finish.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Chai-Spiced Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal flavored with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg creates a comforting breakfast option.
2. Apple Crisp – This warm dessert made with baked apples and a crumbly topping provides a perfect blend of textures and flavors.
3. Pumpkin Soup – A smooth pumpkin soup enriched with spices makes for a delightful fall-inspired meal alongside the cookies.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted with maple syrup enhance the cookie’s sweet notes while adding savory depth.
5. Cranberry Salad – A tangy cranberry salad balances the sweetness of the cookies, making it an excellent refreshing side dish.
6. Cheese Platter – An assortment of cheeses like brie or goat cheese pairs nicely, offering creamy contrast to the fluffy cookies.
7. Mixed Greens Salad – A simple salad with vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and lightness to your snack table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect butter temperature – Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best texture.
• Overmixing the dough – Mixing the cookie dough too much can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined for fluffy results.
• Not measuring flour accurately – Packing flour can result in dry cookies. Use a spoon to aerate flour before measuring for accuracy.
• Skipping the cooling step – Icing warm cookies can cause the icing to run. Allow your cookies to cool completely before decorating for perfect presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 300°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies.

How do I make my Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies fluffier?

Adding an extra tablespoon of maple syrup or ensuring your butter is at room temperature can enhance fluffiness in your cookies.

Can I substitute pumpkin puree?

Yes! You can use pureed sweet potato or butternut squash as a substitute for pumpkin puree with similar results.

What variations can I try with Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies?

Consider adding chocolate chips or using different nuts like walnuts or almonds for added flavor and texture.

How should I store leftover Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Are these cookies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! These cookies freeze well, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you enjoy them plain or with extra toppings, they make a cozy treat any time of year. Try experimenting with different nuts or spices to make this recipe your own!