Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. These cookies blend the rich flavors of pumpkin and maple with a delightful pecan crunch, making them an irresistible choice for a cozy fall day. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these soft and fluffy cookies will surely impress your guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavors – The combination of pumpkin, maple syrup, and spices creates a warm and inviting taste that is perfect for fall.
• Easy to Make – With straightforward steps and common ingredients, baking these cookies is simple and fun.
• Versatile Treat – Enjoy them as an afternoon snack, dessert after dinner, or even packaged as gifts for friends!
• Soft and Fluffy Texture – Each bite melts in your mouth thanks to the fluffy dough enhanced by the moisture of pumpkin puree.
• Perfect for Sharing – This recipe yields 20 cookies, making it great for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will help you enjoy the experience of baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheet
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowls – Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Electric Mixer – Makes creaming butter and sugars easier, ensuring a light texture in your cookies.
• Rubber Spatula – Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls to incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.
• Cookie Scoop – Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

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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!

For the Cookie Dough:

• 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

For the Maple Icing:

• 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 (160°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter

Take the unsalted butter out of the refrigerator so it can come to room temperature. Allow it to sit out for about 20-30 minutes until it’s firm yet slightly soft when touched.

Step 3: Gather Ingredients and Equipment

While waiting for the butter to soften, gather all your other ingredients and tools. This will streamline your baking process.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Ground cloves
4. Ground cinnamon
5. Salt

Whisk well until combined.

Step 5: Prepare Pecans

Chop half of the pecans finely while reserving the other half for topping later.

Step 6: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using an electric mixer or stand mixer on medium speed:
1. Cream together softened butter, white sugar, and dark brown sugar for about 3-5 minutes.
2. Scrape down sides occasionally with a rubber spatula to ensure everything is well mixed.

Step 7: Blot Pumpkin Puree

To remove excess moisture from pumpkin puree:
1. Place high-quality paper towels in a small bowl.
2. Add pumpkin puree on top of the paper towels.
3. Fold edges over to blot away moisture effectively.

Step 8: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add egg, maple syrup, and blotted pumpkin puree to your creamed mixture. Mix on medium/high speed for about 2 minutes until fully incorporated.

Step 9: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

Gradually add one-third of dry ingredients into wet mixture:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined.
2. Repeat until all dry ingredients are incorporated.

Step 10: Add Pecans

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

Step 11: Scoop Cookies

Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon to form approximately two-tablespoon balls of dough:
1. Space them about two inches apart on a large cookie sheet.

Step 12: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 13-15 minutes until lightly golden around edges.

Step 13: Cool Cookies

Once done baking, transfer them onto a cooling rack placed over another cookie sheet to collect any drips.

Step 14: Make Maple Icing

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

Step 15: Ice Cookies

Once cooled:
1. Drizzle maple icing over each cookie.
2. Sprinkle remaining chopped pecans on top before icing dries completely; this helps them stick better.

Step 16: Enjoy!

Indulge in these delicious Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies! Perfectly paired with tea or coffee!

How to Serve Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are delightful treats perfect for any fall gathering or cozy evening at home. Here are some creative ways to serve them:

With a Warm Beverage

• Pair these cookies with a hot cup of apple cider for a classic autumn experience.
• Enjoy them alongside freshly brewed coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a festive platter, garnished with additional pecans and pumpkin seeds for visual appeal.
• Add other seasonal desserts like mini pies or tarts for a diverse dessert spread.

As Gift Treats

• Package cookies in clear bags tied with twine and add a tag for a homemade gift that friends and family will love.
• Consider making cookie jars with layers of dry ingredients for an easy baking gift.

During Game Night

• Serve your cookies as a sweet snack during game nights—perfect for sharing among friends and family.
• Pair them with popcorn or other light snacks for a balanced treat table.

How to Perfect Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

To achieve the best results when making Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Ensure your pumpkin puree and spices are fresh for the best flavor.
• Monitor Baking Time – Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be soft but set in the center.
• Adjust Texture – If you prefer chewier cookies, slightly underbake them and let them cool on the baking sheet.
• Chill Dough – For thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
• Pecans Toasting – Toasting pecans enhances their flavor—lightly roast them in the oven before adding.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

These Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes to enhance your dessert experience. Here are some top suggestions:

1. Spiced Apple Slices – Thinly sliced apples tossed in cinnamon add freshness and crunch to your dessert plate.
2. Pumpkin Soup – A rich and creamy pumpkin soup complements the flavors of the cookies beautifully.
3. Cheese Platter – Offer softened cream cheese or brie alongside nuts and fruits for a savory contrast.
4. Chai Tea Latte – The warm spices in chai tea make it an excellent beverage that pairs well with sweet treats.
5. Caramel Dip – Serve with slices of pear or apple dipped in caramel sauce for added sweetness and texture.
6. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a deliciously creamy combination with the warm cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the outcome of your baking. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using cold butter – Cold butter will not cream well with sugars, leading to dense cookies. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best texture.
• Skipping the measuring of flour – Too much or too little flour can ruin your cookie’s consistency. Always spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft and fluffy result.
• Ignoring the cooling time – Letting cookies cool on a rack is crucial for them to set properly. Skipping this step can lead to crumbly cookies.
• Not blotting pumpkin puree – Excess moisture from pumpkin puree can make cookies soggy. Always blot it before adding to your mixture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Place parchment paper between layers when stacking.

Reheating Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F and warm cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, warming each cookie briefly until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies that might help you:

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut flavor.

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You can use honey or agave syrup as an alternative sweetener in this recipe.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

How long do these cookies last?

These cookies can last up to one week in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips would add a delightful richness and pair well with the pumpkin and maple flavors.

Final Thoughts

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their fluffy texture and rich flavors make them perfect for any occasion, especially during fall. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite nuts or spices. Try this delightful recipe today!