As the scent of maple and cinnamon wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. These Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies, nestled in their seasonal charm, are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of togetherness during the holiday season. With their soft, chewy texture and the delightful drizzles of white chocolate on top, they make for an irresistible treat that’ll warm your heart and your home. Whipping up a batch is not only a quick triumph for any busy cook but also a chance to infuse your gathering with festive delight. Whether you’re exchanging them at a cookie swap or enjoying them cozied up on a chilly evening, these cookies promise to turn any moment into a sweet memory. Ready to fill your kitchen with holiday cheer and create something truly special? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why Are These Cookies So Special?
Unforgettable Flavors: The blend of maple and cinnamon creates a warm environment, evoking memories of holiday cheer.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, this recipe is perfect for anyone, from novice bakers to experienced chefs.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Their festive look and delightful taste make these cookies a hit at parties or cozy gatherings—try serving them alongside Apple Crisp Cinnamon for an even sweeter selection!
Versatile Options: Tailor the flavors by swapping maple for almond or adding peppermint for a refreshing twist.
Perfect for Gifting: Packaged neatly, they make charming gifts that show you care during the holiday season.
Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• ½ cup pure maple syrup – Adds rich maple flavor; remember to use pure syrup for the best taste.
• 1 teaspoon maple extract – Intensifies the maple essence in each bite.
• 1 cup brown sugar – Keeps the cookies chewy and moist, perfect for that inviting texture.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted) – Provides richness and a soft crumb that melts in your mouth.
• 1 large egg – Binds the dough together, ensuring your cookies hold their shape.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The backbone of any cookie, creating structure and texture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Brings warmth and a hint of spice reminiscent of holiday baking.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Aids in achieving a light and fluffy cookie texture.
• ¼ teaspoon fine salt – Balances out the sweetness beautifully for a harmonious flavor.
For the Topping
• 1 cup white chocolate melting wafers – Dipped gleefully, they add a creamy sweetness that elevates the cookie. You can swap in dark or milk chocolate if your taste buds prefer!
• Holly berry sprinkles (optional) – These delightful sprinkles are the cherry on top, adding a festive touch that makes these Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies truly special.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, pure maple syrup, and maple extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in the large egg, mixing until fully integrated and the batter looks cohesive and glossy.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and fine salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed, ensuring there are no clumps. This mixture will provide the structure for your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies, so take your time to get it right before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Form the Cookie Dough
Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; stop when you see no more dry flour. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky. Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help achieve the perfect chewy texture.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the cookie dough chills. Line a light-colored baking sheet with parchment paper, which helps prevent the cookies from browning too quickly. As the oven preheats, this is a great time to prepare your baking space and make sure all tools are ready for a smooth process.
Step 5: Scoop and Shape Cookies
Once chilled, use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the dough into 1.5-ounce balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball. You should aim for roughly 12 cookies per baking sheet, ensuring they have room to expand while baking.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the centers are slightly puffy. They should not look fully baked in the center as they will continue to cook a bit after coming out of the oven. Remember, the goal is to maintain a chewy texture!
Step 7: Rest and Cool
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies rest for about 5 minutes on the sheet. This initial resting period helps them firm up slightly. After that, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. This ensures the cookies maintain their delightful chewiness as they set.
Step 8: Melt the Chocolate
To create the delicious topping, place the white chocolate melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. This should take about 1-2 minutes in total. Ensure you don’t overheat it to maintain the silky texture.
Step 9: Dip the Cookies
Once the cookies are cool, dip half of each cookie into the melted white chocolate, allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl. Place the dipped cookies onto parchment paper to set. This layer of chocolate will add a rich creaminess that beautifully complements the flavors of your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies.
Step 10: Drizzle and Decorate
With the remaining melted chocolate, drizzle a bit over the dipped part of each cookie for extra flair. Immediately sprinkle with holly berry sprinkles if desired, enhancing their festive appearance. Allow the chocolate to set completely, which can take about 30 minutes at room temperature or quicker in the fridge.
Step 11: Serve or Store
Once the chocolate has fully set, your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm with a glass of milk or hot cocoa. If you’re saving some for later, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days—if they last that long!
Expert Tips for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough! This step is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture.
• Use the Right Baking Sheet: Opt for light-colored baking sheets to prevent the cookies from overbrowning on the bottom while baking.
• Watch for Underbaking: Pull the cookies out when the centers are still slightly puffy; they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
• Measure for Consistency: For uniform cookies, use a kitchen scale to measure each portion at 1.5 ounces.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap the maple extract for almond or add peppermint for a festive twist in your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies!
Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore unique twists that’ll make these cookies your own and delight your taste buds!
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Almond Extract: Swap the maple extract for almond for a fragrant, nutty flavor.
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Crushed Peppermint: Add crushed peppermint candy to the dough for a refreshing, festive crunch.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an extra crunch and delightful flavor.
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Spicy Alternative: Incorporate a teaspoon of ginger or nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a spicier, holiday-inspired cookie.
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Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Replace white chocolate with dark chocolate melting wafers for a richer, more decadent finish.
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Maple Oatmeal Cookies: Add 1 cup of quick oats to the dough for a heartier texture reminiscent of oatmeal cookies.
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Cookie Sandwiches: Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting between two cookies for a delightful treat that blends flavors beautifully.
By experimenting with these variations, you can create your own signature version of Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies that your loved ones will cherish. For more tasty ideas, don’t forget to check out Bananas Foster Cinnamon and Blueberry Breakfast Cookies for even more delicious inspirations!
Storage Tips for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful softness.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent them from absorbing any odors.
Freezer: Freeze the baked cookies (without chocolate toppings) for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw before decorating.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to streamline holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps, then cover and refrigerate. For even more convenience, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months—just be sure to separate them on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw; simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for freshly baked, chewy cookies that will taste just as delicious. Enjoy the time-saving benefits while ensuring everyone at your gathering enjoys these delightful treats!
What to Serve with Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
Indulge your senses with delightful accompaniments that enhance the joys of these festive treats.
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Creamy Hot Cocoa: A rich, velvety cocoa balances the sweetness of the cookies, making perfect moments by the fire even sweeter.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing contrast to the warm cookies, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.
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Spiced Chai Latte: This warm, aromatic drink complements the cozy cinnamon flavor in the cookies. With its blend of spices, it embraces the essence of holiday comfort.
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Apple Cider: Sweet, spiced apple cider brings an autumnal harmony that dances beautifully with the maple and cinnamon notes of the cookies.
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Gingerbread Tea: A warm cup of gingerbread tea enhances the festive spirit, lending notes of molasses and spice that pair beautifully with the cookies.
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Sugar Cookies: For a delightful cookie platter, pair with classic sugar cookies for varied flavors and textures that make the holiday season even more festive.
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Pecan Pie: The rich, nutty flavor of pecan pie creates a wonderful contrast, offering a decadent end to your holiday meal alongside the cookies.
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Hot Apple Crisp: Warm apple crisp topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes a perfect pairing, bringing warmth and nostalgia to every bite.
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Mulled Wine: For a cozy adult option, mulled wine with spices mirrors the warmth of the cookies, making for a perfect evening gathering.
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Peppermint Bark: The refreshing crunch of peppermint bark adds a fun twist, enhancing the festive nature of your cookie spread during holiday get-togethers.
Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of maple syrup should I use?
Absolutely! Always opt for pure maple syrup when making Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies. Imitation syrups can alter the flavor significantly, leaving you with a cookie that lacks that deep, rich maple essence. You’ll notice the difference in taste and quality, and it’s worth the choice for a true holiday treat!
How should I store the cookies?
After you’ve baked your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They retain their chewy texture beautifully this way. If you’re aiming for a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week—just ensure they’re wrapped securely to avoid any unwanted odors.
Can I freeze the cookies?
Very! Freezing is a fantastic way to extend the life of your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies. To do this, wrap each baked cookie (without the chocolate dip) tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag and they’ll last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes before decorating.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
The more the merrier, and sometimes we run into little hiccups! If your cookies spread too much, it might be due to insufficient chilling of the dough or too much butter. Ensure the dough is well-chilled for at least 30 minutes, and you can also try measuring your butter accurately. If they still spread, here’s a quick fix: chill the formed dough balls for an additional 10-15 minutes before placing them in the oven.
Are these cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
While delicious for us humans, the Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies contain ingredients that may not be suitable for pets—especially chocolate, which is toxic to dogs. For those with specific allergies, be cautious with the ingredients: they include egg and dairy. If you need to make them allergy-friendly, consider egg replacements like flaxseed or applesauce, and seek out dairy alternatives that fit your needs.
Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies for Cozy Holiday Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, pure maple syrup, and maple extract until smooth. Then add the egg, mixing until fully integrated.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and fine salt. Whisk until evenly mixed.
- Form the Cookie Dough: Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop and Shape Cookies: Form the dough into 1.5-ounce balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each ball.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set and centers slightly puffy. They will continue to cook after removing from the oven.
- Rest and Cool: Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place white chocolate melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals until smooth.
- Dip the Cookies: Once cool, dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate and place on parchment paper to set.
- Drizzle and Decorate: Drizzle remaining melted chocolate over the dipped part of each cookie and sprinkle with holly berry sprinkles, if desired.
- Serve or Store: Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.