Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. These cookies blend the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with the sweetness of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply want a sweet snack, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their soft, fluffy texture combined with a drizzle of icing makes them truly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, maple syrup, and pecans creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Fall: With warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, these cookies are ideal for autumn gatherings.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert or an afternoon snack with tea or coffee.
• Impressive Presentation: Drizzled with maple icing and topped with chopped pecans, they look as good as they taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything at hand will make the experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer or stand mixer: This tool saves time and ensures your butter and sugars are perfectly creamed together for a fluffy texture.
• Rubber spatula: Essential for scraping down the sides of mixing bowls to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 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 (for icing)
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves (for icing)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for icing)
• ¼ cup chopped pecans (for topping)

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

Let the unsalted butter sit out of the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes until it reaches room temperature. It should be firm yet slightly soft when pressed.

Step 3: Gather Ingredients

While waiting for the butter, gather all your ingredients and equipment to streamline the baking process.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. 2 cups all purpose flour
2. 1 & ½ teaspoons baking powder
3. 1 teaspoon ground cloves
4. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
5. ¼ teaspoon salt

Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined.

Step 5: Prep Chopped Pecans

Chop the pecans and divide them in half; one half will be mixed into the dough, while the other half will be used for topping after icing.

Step 6: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using an electric mixer, cream together:
1. ½ cup unsalted butter at room temperature
2. ¼ cup white sugar
3. ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar

Mix on medium speed for about 3–5 minutes until light and fluffy. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down any mixture stuck on the sides of your bowl.

Step 7: Blot Pumpkin Puree

To remove excess moisture from your pumpkin puree:
1. Place high-quality paper towels in a small bowl.
2. Add in your pumpkin puree.
3. Fold over the edges of the towels to soak up moisture.

Step 8: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add:
1. 1 large egg
2. 3 tablespoons maple syrup
3. Blotted pumpkin puree

Mix on medium/high speed for about 2 minutes until everything is well combined.

Step 9: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add one-third of the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until blended. Repeat this process until all dry ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 10: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in half of your chopped pecans into the cookie dough using a spatula to maintain fluffiness.

Step 11: Form Cookie Dough Balls

Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie using either a cookie scoop or measuring spoon. Space each ball about 2 inches apart on a large cookie sheet.

Step 12: Bake Cookies

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

Step 13: Cool Cookies

Once baked, place cookies on a cooling rack with another cookie sheet underneath to catch any drips from icing later on.

Step 14: Make Maple Icing

In a bowl, whisk together:
1. 1 cup powdered sugar
2. ¼ cup maple syrup
3. ½ teaspoon ground cloves
4. ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Mix until smooth.

Step 15: Ice Cookies

After cooling, drizzle each cookie with maple icing and sprinkle remaining chopped pecans on top while still wet so they adhere well.

Step 16: Enjoy!

Your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are ready! Indulge in their deliciousness while sharing with family and friends!

How to Serve Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Serving Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies is a delightful experience that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon, these cookies are sure to impress.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee – Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee to enhance the cozy flavors.
• Tea – A fragrant herbal or chai tea complements the spices in the cookies perfectly.
• Hot Chocolate – Indulge in rich hot chocolate for a sweet and comforting treat.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment – Include Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies on a platter with other seasonal treats for variety.
• Fruit and Nut Board – Arrange fresh fruits and mixed nuts alongside the cookies for a balanced snack.

For Special Occasions

• Thanksgiving Dessert Table – Make these cookies an essential part of your holiday spread.
• Birthday Celebrations – Serve them as unique party favors or dessert for guests.

How to Perfect Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Perfecting your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies can elevate their taste and texture. Here are some helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Spices – Fresh spices will significantly enhance the flavor profile of your cookies.
• Measure Flour Accurately – Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies caused by too much flour.
• Chill Cookie Dough – Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep your cookies light and fluffy.
• Check Baking Time – Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be soft but set when you take them out of the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies can create a well-rounded meal or snack. Here are some great options:

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte – This creamy beverage adds warmth and pairs beautifully with the flavors of your cookies.
2. Apple Crisp – A warm apple crisp topped with ice cream complements the sweetness of pumpkin cookies wonderfully.
3. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses balances the sweetness and adds savory notes to your dessert spread.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted vegetables bring a nutritious contrast while enhancing fall flavors.
5. Cranberry Sauce – The tartness of cranberry sauce adds brightness next to the sweet, spiced cookies.
6. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing side that balances richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies, it’s easy to overlook small details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Measuring flour by scooping directly from the container can lead to too much flour in your mix. Use a spoon to fill your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing the cookie dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Don’t skip letting your cookies cool completely before icing. This helps the icing set properly and prevents it from melting off.
• Using cold butter: Cold butter will not cream well with sugars, resulting in dense cookies. Allow your butter to reach room temperature for ideal mixing.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature. Always use an oven thermometer to ensure your cookies bake at the right temperature.
• Not blotting pumpkin puree: Excess moisture from pumpkin puree can make cookies too wet. Always blot the puree with paper towels to remove extra moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled 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 unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months by placing them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container.

Reheating Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Place one or two cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat and place cookies inside for about 1 minute, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies.

What makes Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies soft?

The combination of pumpkin puree and creamed butter contributes to their soft texture, making them melt in your mouth.

Can I substitute other nuts in this recipe?

Yes! You can replace pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Cookies will look set on the edges and slightly soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the rack.

How should I store leftover Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I use other sweeteners instead of sugar?

You can experiment with coconut sugar or maple sugar as alternatives, but adjust quantities according to sweetness preference.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. Their soft texture paired with maple sweetness and pecan crunch makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding chocolate chips or using different nuts. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delicious cookies!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies

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• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful autumn flavors of Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies, a perfect treat for cozy gatherings or a quiet afternoon snack. These soft, fluffy cookies combine the rich taste of pumpkin with the sweetness of pure maple syrup and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans. Topped with a creamy maple icing and additional pecans, they are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Easy to make and bursting with seasonal spices, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or as part of your holiday dessert spread – they capture the essence of fall in every bite.

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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 (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 (for icing)
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves (for icing)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for icing)
• ¼ cup chopped pecans (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cloves, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Cream butter, white sugar, and brown sugar together until fluffy.
4. Add egg, maple syrup, and blotted pumpkin puree; mix until well combined.
5. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
6. Fold in half of the chopped pecans.
7. Scoop out dough onto a cookie sheet and space apart.
8. Bake for 13–15 minutes until edges are golden.
9. Cool on a rack, then drizzle with maple icing made from powdered sugar and maple syrup.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg