Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful cookies combine the warm flavors of pumpkin and maple, complemented by a crunchy pecan topping. They’re soft, fluffy, and guaranteed to melt in your mouth. Whether you’re celebrating a fall gathering or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these cookies will bring comfort and joy to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor – The combination of pumpkin, maple syrup, and pecans creates a unique taste that you’ll crave.
• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these cookies up with ease.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – These cookies are a great addition to holiday parties, family gatherings, or just an afternoon snack.
• Fluffy Texture – The use of pumpkin puree keeps the cookies soft and moist, making them irresistible.
• Versatile – Enjoy them as-is or dress them up with maple icing for an extra special touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Cookie sheet
• Cooling rack
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or electric mixer – This tool saves time and ensures that your butter and sugars are creamed perfectly.
• Mixing bowls – Having multiple bowls helps keep your ingredients organized during the mixing process.
• Rubber spatula – It’s essential for scraping down the sides of your bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Ingredients

Yield: 20 cookies. These soft, fluffy cookies with pumpkin, maple, and a pecan crunch will melt in your mouth. Perfect for a cool fall day!

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 & ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Add-ins

• ¼ cup chopped pecans

Wet Ingredients

• 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

Icing Ingredients

• 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 (163°C) before you start mixing your ingredients. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter

Take the unsalted butter out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes until it becomes soft but still firm.

Step 3: Gather Your Ingredients

While waiting for the butter, gather all your ingredients and tools. This will make the process smoother.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine flour, baking powder, cloves, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Whisk well until everything is mixed evenly.

Step 5: Chop Pecans

Chop the pecans into small pieces. Divide them in half; one half will be folded into the cookie dough while the other half will be reserved for topping.

Step 6: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl:
1. Cream together butter, white sugar, and dark brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3–5 minutes.
2. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula.

Step 7: Blot Pumpkin Puree

Blotting helps remove excess moisture from pumpkin puree:
1. Place paper towels in a small bowl.
2. Add pumpkin puree on top and fold over edges to soak up moisture.

Step 8: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add egg, maple syrup, and blotted pumpkin puree into the creamed mixture:
1. Mix on medium/high speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.

Step 9: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture:
1. Start with one-third of dry mix on low speed.
2. Repeat until all ingredients are combined without overmixing.

Step 10: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold half of the chopped pecans into your cookie dough using a spatula.

Step 11: Scoop Dough onto Cookie Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or measuring spoon:
1. Form approximately 2-tablespoon balls of dough.
2. Space them about 2 inches apart on a large cookie sheet.

Step 12: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 13–15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 13: Cool Cookies

Once baked:
1. Transfer cookies onto a cooling rack with a cookie sheet underneath to catch any drips.

Step 14: Make Maple Icing

While cooling:
1. In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and cloves until smooth.

Step 15: Ice Cookies

Once cooled:
1. Drizzle each cookie with icing.
2. Sprinkle remaining chopped pecans on top while icing is still wet so they stick well.

Step 16: Enjoy!

Serve these delightful Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies warm or store them in an airtight container to enjoy later!

How to Serve Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are delightful treats that can brighten up any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
• Hot Chocolate: A rich, creamy hot chocolate balances the flavors of pumpkin and maple.
• Spiced Tea: A warm spiced tea enhances the fall flavors found in these cookies.

As a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Nuts: Serve with a variety of nuts for a crunchy contrast to the soft cookies.
• Seasonal Fruits: Pair with fresh apples or pears for a refreshing addition.
• Cheese Board: Include some sharp cheese to add a savory element alongside the sweet cookies.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Cookie Exchange: Bring these cookies to share at holiday cookie exchanges for a unique offering.
• Gift Boxes: Package them in decorative boxes as homemade gifts for friends and family.

How to Perfect Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

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

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps achieve a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies fluffy and soft.
• Blot Pumpkin Puree: Removing excess moisture from pumpkin puree prevents sogginess in the cookies.
• Chill Cookie Dough: If time allows, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can enhance flavor and texture.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be soft but set when you take them out.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream adds richness and balances the spice in the cookies.
2. Whipped Cream: Light whipped cream can provide a fluffy contrast to the dense texture of the cookies.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over each cookie for an extra layer of sweetness.
4. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite makes a perfect beverage pairing with your cookies.
5. Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of chocolate ganache adds an indulgent touch that pairs beautifully with maple flavors.
6. Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote can introduce tartness that complements the sweetness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a soft texture.
• Skipping the blotting: Not blotting the pumpkin puree can result in overly moist cookies. Use paper towels to absorb excess moisture before mixing.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Not spacing cookies properly: Crowding the cookie sheet can lead to merging cookies. Space them about 2 inches apart for even cooking.
• Ignoring cooling time: Icing warm cookies can cause the icing to melt away. Allow your cookies to cool completely before icing them.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F and warm cookies for 5-10 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat for a warm cookie experience, about 1-2 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies unique?

These cookies combine pumpkin’s warmth with maple syrup’s sweetness and pecans’ crunch, creating a comforting treat perfect for fall.

Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, using canned pumpkin puree is ideal. Just remember to blot it dry before adding it to the mix.

How do I customize Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies?

Consider adding chocolate chips or spices like nutmeg for extra flavor variations.

Are these cookies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! You can freeze these cookies easily without losing their taste or texture.

Final Thoughts

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various add-ins and flavors. Their fluffy texture pairs perfectly with the maple icing, making them an irresistible treat. Try this recipe today!