As the chill of winter whispers through the window, I shuffle into the kitchen, relishing the warmth that comes from my oven. The sweet scent of cinnamon wafts in the air, instantly transporting me to cozy holiday gatherings. That’s when I whip up a batch of my favorite Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies dipped in white chocolate. These delightful cookies are not only simple to make—no mixer required!—but they also promise a soft, chewy texture that makes them a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or looking to impress friends at your next gathering, these comforting treats are perfect for any occasion. Are you ready to fill your home with that irresistible aroma and surprise everyone with a gourmet delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Choose Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies?
Irresistible aroma: The delightful scent of cinnamon and maple fills your home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
No mixer needed: This simple recipe makes baking accessible for everyone, no hassle!
Chewy texture: These cookies are soft and chewy, offering the perfect bite every time.
Versatile pairing: Enjoy them with hot cocoa or coffee, making them a cozy companion for any beverage.
Festive touch: The creamy white chocolate dip and optional sprinkles elevate these treats for any celebration. Don't forget to check out my Eggnog Cookies Soft for another delightful holiday treat!
Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup – Adds deep maple flavor; note: use pure maple syrup for best taste.
• 1 teaspoon maple extract – Enhances maple notes; substitution: vanilla extract can work for a milder flavor.
• 1 cup brown sugar – Provides chewiness and moisture for the cookie texture.
• 1/2 cup melted butter – Contributes richness; unsalted butter is recommended for controlling salt levels.
• 1 egg – Binds the dough together and helps achieve that soft structure.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; adjust for a more or less intense flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Helps cookies rise to that perfect chewy texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
For the Chocolate Dip
• 1 cup white chocolate melting wafers – For dipping to provide creaminess and a decorative finish.
• Holly berry sprinkles (optional) – Adds a festive touch to your cookies; perfect for holiday baking and gatherings.
Indulge in the wonderful world of Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
Step 1: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of maple extract until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Then, gently stir in 1 egg, ensuring that everything blends together seamlessly. This step creates a rich, flavorful base for your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed. Gradually add this flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. This dough will be the heart of your chewy cookies.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate it for 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and ensures the cookies maintain their chewiness and shape while baking. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Line a light-colored baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent over-browning. Once the oven is ready and the dough has chilled, it's time to scoop and shape your cookies. This preparation will lead to evenly baked, aesthetically pleasing cookies.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop the chilled dough into 1.5-ounce balls (about the size of a golf ball) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. This space allows the cookies to spread while baking. You should see perfectly formed balls that are ready to create those delightful Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies you love.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Look for cookies where the edges are set, and the centers are slightly puffy but not browned. They may look underbaked in the center, but they will firm up as they cool. After baking, allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Melt the Chocolate
While the cookies cool, prepare the chocolate dip. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of white chocolate melting wafers at half power. Stir every 30 seconds until the chocolate is smooth and silky. Melting the chocolate properly ensures a creamy consistency for dipping, which will enhance your cookies further.
Step 8: Dip and Decorate
Once the cookies are completely cool, dip half of each cookie into the melted white chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the dipped cookies on parchment paper and drizzle any remaining white chocolate over the top. If desired, sprinkle with holly berry sprinkles before the chocolate hardens to add a festive touch, making your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies truly special.
Step 9: Set and Serve
Allow the dipped cookies to set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator for quicker results. Once the chocolate hardens, your chewy cookies are ready to serve or store. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the comforting aroma that fills your home!
How to Store and Freeze Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and chewy.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week, but this may affect their texture.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies without the chocolate dip for up to 2 months. Ensure they're wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, simply heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving. This will revive that soft, chewy goodness!
Make Ahead Options
These Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies are perfect for home cooks looking to save time during busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by making it and then wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. If you prefer, you can also freeze the shaped cookie balls for up to 3 months; just make sure to place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll have delicious, freshly baked Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies whenever you need a comforting treat without the stress!
What to Serve with Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
The delightful pairing of flavors can elevate your cookie experience, making every bite even more memorable.
- Hot Cocoa: The rich chocolate flavor of cocoa complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a cozy, comforting treat.
- Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing the overall taste experience. Pairing these two warms not just your hands but your heart as well.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings a delightful contrast to the chewy texture, making every bite a joyful treat.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai enhance the cinnamon notes in the cookies, resulting in a harmonious blend that feels like a warm hug.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits add a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavor of the cookies. The bright colors and textures create a pleasant visual and culinary experience.
- Maple Pecan Pie: For a more decadent dessert spread, serve these cookies alongside a rich maple pecan pie for a true celebration of maple flavors. The combination would fulfill any sweet tooth!
- Ginger Ale: The effervescent zing of ginger ale offers a refreshing palate cleanser that complements the cookies' warmth beautifully, perfect for a festive gathering.
Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these irresistible cookies with some delicious twists!
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Dark Chocolate: Swap white chocolate for dark chocolate for a richer, bolder flavor that beautifully complements the maple.
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Peppermint Twist: Add crushed peppermint candies to the dough for a festive, minty flavor perfect for the holiday season.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour to create a gluten-free version. Just be sure to adjust the moisture accordingly!
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a delightful nutty crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft cookie.
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Cinnamon Rolls: Turn these cookies into a cinnamon roll-inspired treat by adding a swirl of cinnamon-sugar filling before baking.
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Cardamom Spice: Spice things up by incorporating ground cardamom with the cinnamon for a unique and aromatic flavor profile.
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Honey Sweetened: Replace the maple syrup with honey for a different sweetener that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It adds a nice floral note!
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Chewy Maple Cinnamon Roll Muffins: If you're in the mood for muffins, try using this dough in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized delights! Check out my Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll for more muffin inspiration.
Get creative and mix and match these variations to find your perfect cookie creation!
Expert Tips for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
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Use Quality Syrup: Ensure you use pure maple syrup, not imitation. It significantly enhances the flavor of your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies.
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Perfect Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they should be puffy but not browned. Overbaking can lead to dryness, so take them out while they still look slightly underdone.
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Chill for Texture: Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes helps maintain the shape and chewy texture during baking.
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Use Light Baking Sheets: Opt for light-colored baking sheets to prevent over-browning. Dark pans can heat unevenly and lead to burnt bottoms.
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Uniform Cookie Sizes: For even baking, use a kitchen scale to measure out dough balls at 1.5 ounces. This ensures all your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies bake evenly.
Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best maple syrup for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, always choose pure maple syrup over imitation syrup. Look for one that is rich and deep in color, indicating a stronger flavor profile. A Grade A dark variety is often ideal for baking as it brings out the maple flavor beautifully in your cookies.
How should I store my Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you find you can’t finish them in that time, the refrigerator is an option, but it may slightly change their texture, making them a bit firmer.
Can I freeze Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze your baked cookies without the white chocolate dip for up to 2 months! Simply allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. To enjoy later, just thaw and, if desired, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very often, this can happen if your ingredients are too warm or if you have over-measured the wet ingredients. If your dough feels excessively sticky, you can add a tablespoon of flour at a time to help bind it together. Alternatively, chilling the dough for a longer period can also make it easier to handle and shape before baking.
Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes! The Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies are nut-free, making them suitable for those with nut allergies. However, always double-check your ingredients, especially the chocolate wafers, for any potential cross-contamination warnings that might apply.
What are the best ways to serve Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies?
For a truly comforting experience, I recommend pairing these delightful cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa or freshly brewed coffee. The combination of sweet, chewy cookie and your favorite beverage will surely elevate those cozy nights in, creating a perfect moment to savor during the chilly months!
Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and maple extract until smooth, then stir in the egg.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate into wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes to meld flavors and maintain chewiness.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop chilled dough into 1.5-ounce balls and place on the baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set and centers are puffy. Cool on sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.
- Melt white chocolate wafers in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Dip half of each cookie into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip. Place on parchment and sprinkle with holly berries if desired.
- Let dipped cookies set until chocolate hardens, then serve or store.
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