Description

These decadent pumpkin cookies utilize browned butter and a precise moisture balance to achieve a dense, chewy texture instead of a traditional cakey crumb. Infused with maple syrup and toasted spices, they offer a sophisticated flavor profile that perfectly captures the essence of autumn.

Ingredients

220g unsalted butter
280g dark brown sugar
1 large egg yolk
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
80g pure pumpkin puree
280g all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Granulated sugar (for coating)
Brown sugar (for coating)
Extra cinnamon (for coating)

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Instructions

Melt the butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat until it foams and develops amber bits; transfer to a measuring glass to ensure you have 180-190ml of liquid.
Chill the browned butter in the refrigerator for exactly 20 minutes until cool to the touch but still liquid.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices until evenly distributed.
In a large bowl, whisk the cooled butter and dark brown sugar vigorously for two minutes, then whisk in the egg yolk, maple syrup, vanilla, and pumpkin puree until fully emulsified.
Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula just until no flour streaks remain, then let the dough rest for 15 minutes.
Use a 2oz scoop to portion the dough, roll into spheres, and coat thoroughly in a mixture of granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Place spheres 3 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes until the edges are set and the centers are slightly puffed.

Notes

To ensure the perfect chewy texture, always use a kitchen scale for the pumpkin puree and flour measurements as volume can vary significantly. If your cookies do not spread or crack as expected, verify that your oven has reached a true 350°F and that your baking soda is fresh to ensure the proper chemical reaction with the dark brown sugar.

Prep Time: 35 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American