Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are the perfect treat for fall, bringing together the warm flavors of pumpkin and maple with a delightful pecan crunch. These cookies are soft and fluffy, making them an ideal dessert for gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or even as a sweet pick-me-up during a busy day. Their unique combination of flavors will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin, maple syrup, and spices creates a rich taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll whip up a batch in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual coffee dates.
• Soft and Fluffy Texture: These cookies melt in your mouth, offering an irresistible bite every time.
• Gorgeous Presentation: Drizzled with maple icing and topped with pecans, they look as good as they taste!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop or measuring spoon
• Baking sheet
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spillage.
• Electric or stand mixer: Saves time and effort while ensuring your butter and sugars are perfectly creamed.
• Cookie scoop or measuring spoon: Helps create uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
• Cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool properly without becoming soggy on the bottom.

Ingredients

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

• 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 (163°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter

Take the unsalted butter out of the refrigerator to bring it to room temperature. Allow it to sit out for about 20–30 minutes until it feels firm yet cool.

Step 3: Gather Ingredients

While you’re waiting for the butter, gather all your ingredients and equipment so everything is ready when you start mixing.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 & ½ teaspoons baking powder
* 1 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* ¼ teaspoon salt

Whisk well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 5: Chop Pecans

Chop your pecans and set aside half for adding into the dough. The other half will be used later for topping.

Step 6: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, cream together:
* ½ cup unsalted butter
* ¼ cup white sugar
* ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar

Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3–5 minutes. Be sure to scrape down the sides occasionally.

Step 7: Blot Pumpkin Puree

Blotting is important! Place paper towels in a small bowl and add the pumpkin puree. Fold over the edges of the towels to absorb excess moisture.

Step 8: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add:
* 1 large egg
* 3 tablespoons maple syrup
* Blotted pumpkin puree

Mix on medium/high speed for about two minutes until fully combined.

Step 9: Mix Dry with Wet Ingredients

Gradually add one-third of your dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until combined; repeat until all ingredients are incorporated.

Step 10: Add Pecans

Fold in half of your chopped pecans into the cookie dough gently using a spatula.

Step 11: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or measuring spoon, form balls of dough (about two tablespoons each) and space them about two inches apart on a baking sheet.

Step 12: Bake Cookies

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

Step 13: Cool Cookies

Transfer baked cookies onto a cooling rack placed over another baking sheet to catch any drips.

Step 14: Prepare Maple Icing

While cooling, make icing by whisking together:
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* ¼ cup maple syrup
* Additional spices (½ teaspoon ground cloves & ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon)

Step 15: Ice Cookies

Once cooled, drizzle cookies with prepared icing. Sprinkle remaining chopped pecans on top while icing is still wet so they stick well.

Step 16: Enjoy!

Share these delightful Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies with friends or enjoy them yourself!

How to Serve Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

These Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion, especially during the fall. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: Pair your cookies with a steaming cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon break.
• Tea: Enjoy with herbal or spiced tea to complement the warm flavors of pumpkin and maple.
• Hot Chocolate: A rich hot chocolate can add extra sweetness and warmth, perfect for cool days.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment: Include other seasonal cookies like ginger snaps or chocolate chip for variety.
• Cheese Board: Add soft cheeses and fresh fruits to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
• Fruit Compote: Serve with a side of apple or pear compote for an added fruity touch.

For Special Occasions

• Holiday Gatherings: These cookies make an excellent addition to festive dessert tables during Thanksgiving or Halloween.
• Gift Packaging: Package them in decorative boxes as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family.

How to Perfect Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

To achieve the best version of your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your spices and baking powder are fresh for optimal flavor and rise.
• Chill Dough If Necessary: If your dough is too sticky, chilling it for 30 minutes can make it easier to scoop and shape.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and fluffy; overmixing can create tougher cookies.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly calibrated by using an oven thermometer; this helps avoid undercooking or burning.
• Monitor Baking Time: Start checking cookies at the lower end of the baking time range for perfect softness without overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

These delicious cookies can be enhanced with complementary side dishes that highlight their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Maple Ice Cream: A creamy treat that echoes the maple flavor in the cookies; serve alongside or on top.
2. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg provide a crunchy contrast to the soft cookies.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness, balancing out the richness of the cookies.
4. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup can create a delightful savory-sweet pairing with your cookies.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an indulgent twist that enhances their flavor profile.
6. Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream with cinnamon pairs beautifully with each bite of cookie.
7. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie can complement the flavors while providing a savory option in your dessert spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking cookies can be tricky, and avoiding common pitfalls can make all the difference in achieving perfect Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies.

• Incorrect Ingredient Measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can drastically affect cookie texture. Always use precise measurements for best results.
• Not Blotting Pumpkin Puree: Failing to remove excess moisture from pumpkin puree can lead to soggy cookies. Always blot the puree before adding it to the dough.
• Using Cold Butter: If your butter is too cold, it won’t cream properly with the sugars. Make sure it’s at room temperature for a smooth mixture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined after adding dry ingredients.
• Skipping Cooling Time: Letting cookies cool on a rack is essential for them to set properly. Don’t skip this step!
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can cause cookies to spread or bake unevenly. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap for best preservation.

Reheating Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds on high power.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat for 1-2 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies.

Can I substitute maple syrup with another sweetener?

You can use agave syrup or honey as alternatives, but they may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I ensure my Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies stay soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread; this helps retain moisture and keeps them soft.

Can I add chocolate chips to my Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies?

Yes! Chocolate chips pair wonderfully with pumpkin and pecans, adding richness and flavor.

What other nuts can I use instead of pecans?

Walnuts or almonds make great substitutes if you prefer different nut flavors or textures.

How long do these cookies last after baking?

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies will stay fresh for about 5 days when stored correctly at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. They are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Feel free to customize them by adding chocolate chips or swapping nuts based on your preferences. Enjoy baking these delightful treats!

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Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies. These soft, fluffy cookies combine the warmth of pumpkin and maple syrup with a satisfying pecan crunch, making them a perfect treat for cozy gatherings or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. Their rich, spiced flavor and beautiful presentation, drizzled with maple icing and topped with pecans, will have everyone coming back for more. Easy to make and enjoyable to eat, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite in your baking repertoire.

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Ingredients

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• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Cream together butter and sugars in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, spices, and salt.
4. Mix in an egg and pumpkin puree into the butter mixture along with maple syrup.
5. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients until combined.
6. Fold in half of the chopped pecans.
7. Scoop dough onto a baking sheet and bake for 13–15 minutes until lightly golden.
8. Cool on a rack before drizzling with maple icing.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 45mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg