As I watched the first snowflakes dance outside my window, a comforting idea sparked within me—a batch of Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies. These delightful treats are a heavenly merge of comforting spices and rich maple goodness, perfect for wrapping in cozy, holiday vibes. With their soft and chewy texture, they bring nostalgia while being surprisingly simple to whip up. Not only will they elevate your festive gatherings, but they also keep beautifully, so you can enjoy this holiday comfort long after the celebrations have ended. Dip them in velvety white chocolate and sprinkle with a festive touch, and you’ve got a cookie that steals the spotlight on any dessert table. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with warmth and the enchanting aroma of maple and cinnamon? Let’s get baking!
Why Are Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies Irresistible?
Irresistible flavors: The combination of rich maple syrup and warm cinnamon creates a cookie that embodies cozy comfort at its finest.
Festive touch: Finished with a dip in smooth white chocolate and festive sprinkles, these cookies are not just a treat; they’re a delightful decoration for your holiday table.
Perfect for sharing: Whether you’re exchanging cookies at a family gathering or serving them alongside hot cocoa, these cookies are sure to spark joy and laughter.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up a delicious batch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try our Nutty Apricot Cookies for a different twist!
Long-lasting freshness: They store beautifully in an airtight container, so you can savor the moment long after the holiday festivities.
Crowd-pleaser: Watch them disappear as friends and family gather around the table, making them a must for your festive celebrations!
Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookie Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Pure Maple Syrup – Adds deep maple flavor; always use pure for the best results.
• Maple Extract – Intensifies the cookie’s delightful maple notes.
• Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and a wonderfully chewy texture.
• Melted Butter – Contributes richness and enhances flavor in every bite.
• Egg – Binds everything together to create that perfect dough consistency.
• All-Purpose Flour – The main structural component for the cookie—don’t skip!
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice, making these cookies festive.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise and stay chewy when baked.
• Fine Salt – Elevates flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
For the Chocolate Coating
• White Chocolate Melting Wafers – Creates a creamy contrast and a beautiful finish.
• Holly Berry Sprinkles – Optional; these sprinkles add a festive touch and color to your cookies.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of pure maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of maple extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Next, add one large egg, mixing thoroughly until everything is incorporated. This wet mixture provides the base for your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies, giving them their signature flavor and texture.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of fine salt. Stir the dry ingredients until evenly mixed, ensuring the baking soda is well distributed. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms. This will create the delightful chewiness you expect from these cookies.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Chilling the dough is essential for maintaining thickness while baking, ensuring your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies don’t spread too much in the oven. During this time, you can preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheet
While the dough chills, line a light-colored baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent the cookies from browning too much and ensures even baking. Make sure your baking sheet is ready because once the dough has chilled, you’ll be scooping it onto the sheet to bake, setting the stage for your delicious cookie adventure.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
After chilling, scoop 1.5-ounce balls of dough using a cookie scoop or your hands and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. You should be able to fit about 9 cookies per sheet. The dough may be slightly sticky, but this adds to the chewy texture once baked.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers appear puffy but not overly brown. The visual cue here is a soft center; they will firm up as they cool.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This resting time allows the cookie structure to set properly, resulting in the perfect chewiness in your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies. Make sure to give them some space on the rack so they cool evenly.
Step 8: Melt the White Chocolate
While the cookies are cooling, melt 1 cup of white chocolate melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between until smooth and completely melted. This creamy chocolate will serve as a delightful coating for your cookies and add an irresistible finish.
Step 9: Dip the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, dip half of each cookie into the melted white chocolate. Let the excess chocolate drip back into the bowl, then place the dipped cookies on a sheet of parchment paper. This step adds elegance and flavor to your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies, bringing that festive touch.
Step 10: Decorate the Cookies
Drizzle any remaining melted white chocolate over the dipped cookies for a decorative flair, then add your choice of holly berry sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet. This not only enhances their appearance but also makes them a fun treat for the holiday season.
Step 11: Let the Chocolate Set
Allow the chocolate coating to harden completely at room temperature before serving or storing your cookies. This can take about 20 minutes, depending on the ambient temperature. Once set, your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies are ready to bring joy and warmth to any gathering!
What to Serve with Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
As the aroma of freshly baked cookies swirls through your kitchen, it’s time to think about what delightful pairings will elevate your experience.
- Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolatey warmth of hot cocoa perfectly complements the maple flavor, making each sip and bite a cozy indulgence.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful coolness, creating a delicious contrast to the warm, chewy cookies. Imagine the melt-in-your-mouth combination!
- Apple Cider: The sweet and spiced notes of warm apple cider harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon, enhancing the flavors of your cookies for a comforting treat.
- Cheese Platter: Add a selection of mild cheeses such as brie or gouda for a savory contrast to the sweet cookies. The creaminess of the cheese balances the maple perfectly!
- Holiday Fruit Salad: Toss together seasonal fruits like oranges, pomegranate seeds, and apples for freshness that cuts through the cookie’s sweetness, making for a vibrant side.
- Nutty Hot Tea: A cup of hot tea infused with nutmeg or almond flavoring creates a warm embrace that pairs wonderfully with the comforting notes of maple and cinnamon.
- Milk: Whether it’s cold, warm, or even flavored like almond or oat milk, milk is the classic drink that brings everyone back to their childhood—a perfect match for cookies!
- Peppermint Bark: For an additional festive touch, serve peppermint bark alongside your cookies; the refreshing mint offers a delightful twist with every bite.
- Nutella Dip: A small bowl of Nutella for dipping transforms your cookie experience into a deliciously luxe treat, perfect for those who crave a little extra indulgence.
- Christmas Spiced Roast Coffee: Brew a cup of rich, spiced coffee to enhance the flavors of your cookies, wrapping up your holiday treats with a robust finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the wet and dry ingredients, then refrigerate the covered bowl. The dough will maintain its quality and flavor, ensuring your cookies are just as delicious when baked. If you want to go a step further, after baking, dip the cookies in melted white chocolate and add sprinkles up to 3 days before serving; just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This way, you’ll have delightful, ready-to-enjoy treats that will impress your family and friends!
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. This keeps them soft and chewy, ready for you to enjoy anytime!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies (before dipping in white chocolate) for up to 2 months. Ensure they are in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes before dipping in the white chocolate. This helps retain their delicious chewy texture!
Keep it Airtight: After dipping in white chocolate, allow them to set completely, then store in an airtight container to keep the chocolate coating fresh and glossy for up to 5 days.
Expert Tips for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
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Use Pure Maple Syrup: Always opt for pure maple syrup instead of imitation. It makes a significant difference in flavor and authenticity for your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies.
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Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! This crucial moment prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring they maintain that soft, chewy texture.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of the baking time. You want to take them out when they look slightly underbaked in the center for that perfect chewy bite.
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Choose the Right Baking Sheet: Light-colored baking sheets help prevent the bottoms from browning too quickly. For best results, stick with a light color to maintain that delightful chewy interior.
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Decorate While Warm: When dipping your cookies in white chocolate, add sprinkles immediately while the chocolate is still wet. This ensures the sprinkles stick nicely and enhance the festive look of your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies.
Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies for a delightful twist!
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Dark Chocolate: Swap out white chocolate for dark chocolate to add a rich, bittersweet contrast to the cookies.
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Peppermint Crunch: For a festive flair, mix crushed peppermint candies into the melting chocolate, providing a refreshing minty flavor.
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Nutty Surprise: Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the dough for added texture and a nutty crunch in every bite.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a cookie that’s safe for gluten-sensitive loved ones.
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Alternative Sweeteners: Experiment with maple sugar or coconut sugar in place of brown sugar for a unique flavor profile that complements the maple notes.
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Spiced Infusion: Amp up the warmth by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dough mix, enhancing the holiday spice experience.
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Dried Fruit: Fold in dried cranberries or chopped dates to introduce a chewy fruitiness that pairs beautifully with the maple flavor.
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Lemon Zest: Brighten up the flavors with a teaspoon of lemon zest mixed into the dough, adding a refreshing citrus note to the sweet cookies.
Make sure to share these delightful variations at your next holiday gathering alongside our Nutty Apricot Cookies or our scrumptious Banana Seed Cookies for an impressive cookie spread that’s sure to impress!
Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of maple syrup should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Always use pure maple syrup when making your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies. Imitation syrup can lack the rich flavor needed for that delightful taste. A good quality pure maple syrup enhances the cookie’s flavor profile, making your treats memorable!
How should I store leftover cookies?
Great question! Store your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This ensures they stay soft and chewy, perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa or sharing with friends.
Can I freeze the cookies? How?
Yes, you can freeze your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies! For best results, freeze them before dipping in white chocolate. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, where they can last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before dipping them in chocolate.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, don’t worry! This can happen occasionally. You can add a little extra flour, about 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough reaches a manageable consistency. Just be careful not to overmix, as that could affect the texture of your cookies. Remember, the dough should be soft but not overly sticky!
Are these cookies safe for pets?
Very! While the Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies are vegetarian-friendly, they are best enjoyed by humans. Make sure you keep them away from pets, particularly dogs, since ingredients like chocolate can be harmful to them.
How can I achieve the perfect chewy texture?
To ensure your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies are perfectly chewy, there are a few steps to follow: First, be careful not to overbake them; they should look slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out of the oven. Additionally, chilling the dough is important, as it helps maintain thickness and prevents excessive spreading while baking. Enjoy the delightful chewy goodness!
Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies for Cozy Holiday Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and maple extract until smooth.
- Add the egg and mix thoroughly until incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, blend all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and fine salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Cover the bowl tightly and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop 1.5-ounce balls of dough onto the baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until edges are set and centers are puffy.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Melt white chocolate wafers in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring in 30-second increments until smooth.
- Dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off.
- Drizzle the remaining melted chocolate over cookies and add sprinkles while still wet.
- Allow chocolate to set completely at room temperature before serving.