There’s a certain charm that comes with the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. As the aroma of cinnamon and warm maple fills the air, it instantly transports me to the cozy holiday gatherings of my childhood. These Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies are not just any treat; they offer a delightful balance of soft, chewy goodness combined with a festive flair, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Dipped in luscious white chocolate and twinkling with cheerful sprinkles, these cookies embody everything I love about holiday baking. They’re easy to whip up, making them the ideal choice for anyone looking to escape the routine of fast food and enjoy a moment of homemade bliss. Picture this: a cold winter night, a cup of hot cocoa in hand, and these scrumptious cookies waiting to be savored by the fire. Trust me, each bite is like a warm hug that celebrates the flavors of the season!
Why Love Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies?
Satisfying warmth: Each bite brings the cozy flavors of maple and cinnamon together for a nostalgic holiday experience.
Festive flair: Dipped in velvety white chocolate and sprinkled with cheerful decorations, these cookies are visually stunning.
Easy preparation: The straightforward recipe requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Perfect for sharing: Ideal for festive gatherings, they are sure to impress friends and family alike.
Freezer-friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze undipped cookies, so you can indulge anytime.
Endless variations: Try adding nuts or spices to personalize your treats!
Ingredients for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
For the Cookie Dough
- ½ cup pure maple syrup - Provides deep maple flavor; use real maple syrup for the best taste.
- 1 teaspoon maple extract - Enhances maple flavor intensity; omit for a milder taste.
- 1 cup brown sugar - Adds sweetness and chewiness; light brown sugar can be used for a lighter taste.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted - Incorporates richness; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- 1 large egg - Binds the ingredients together; flax egg can be used for a vegan alternative.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour - Forms the dough structure; for gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - Adds warmth and flavor; adjust to taste or substitute with pumpkin spice for a twist.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda - Provides leavening for a soft texture; ensure it is fresh for the best results.
- ¼ teaspoon fine salt - Enhances overall flavor; can reduce or omit for lower sodium.
For the Topping
- 1 cup white chocolate melting wafers - Creates a creamy coating; chocolate chips can serve as a substitute.
- Holly berry sprinkles (optional) - Adds festive decoration; other holiday-themed sprinkles can be used.
Enjoy the deliciousness of these Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies - Soft, Festive & White Chocolate Dipped!
How to Make Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
Whisk Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and maple extract until smooth. Then, mix in the egg until well combined-this creates a rich base for your cookies.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms-this is where the magic begins!
Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential to maintain thickness during baking, ensuring your cookies are perfectly chewy.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a light-colored baking sheet with parchment paper. A light sheet helps prevent your cookies from browning too much.
Scoop Dough: Use a cookie scoop to scoop dough into 1.5-ounce balls and space them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Give them room to puff and spread!
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set and centers are puffy. Don't wait for browning-this keeps them soft and chewy!
Cool Cookies: After removing the cookies from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps preserve the right texture.
Melt White Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate in 30-second intervals at half power, stirring each time until smooth. This will be the creamy finish for your cookies!
Dip Cookies: Dip half of each cookie into the melted white chocolate and place on parchment paper. Drizzle the remaining chocolate over cookies and add festive sprinkles before they set for a festive look!
Optional: For extra fun, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before the chocolate hardens.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing these Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies ahead of time is a fantastic strategy for busy home cooks! You can pre-measure and mix the dry ingredients (flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt) up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours-this short chill time enhances the flavors while keeping them soft. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop the chilled dough onto your baking sheet and proceed with the baking instructions. This way, you save time without sacrificing the delightful taste and texture of these festive cookies!
Variations & Substitutions for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
There’s so much to explore when it comes to customizing these delightful cookies! Let your creativity shine with different flavors and textures.
Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend for everyone to enjoy these cookies.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delicious crunch; their earthy flavor pairs perfectly with maple.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for a festive pop of sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
Spicy Addition: Include a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for added warmth and a cozy spiced flavor profile.
Chocolate-Lovers: Swap white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate to create a richer chocolate experience.
Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based butter for a vegan version.
Zesty Flavor: Try adding a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy kick that lightens the cookies.
Sweet & Salty: After dipping in chocolate, sprinkle a little sea salt on top for a delightful sweet-and-salty contrast.
What to Serve with Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies?
Imagine cozy nights spent by the fire, enjoying comforting treats that warm your heart and soul.
- Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich chocolate flavor complements the cookies’ sweetness and adds a warm, cozy feel. Perfect for cold nights!
- Spiced Chai Latte: The spices in chai beautifully enhance the cinnamon notes of the cookies, creating a delightful pairing. It’s a match made in heaven!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Adding a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings a cool contrast, making for a delightful experience with each chewy bite.
- Mulled Cider: This spiced drink echoes the holiday spirit, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the cookies with its warm, aromatic notes.
- Pumpkin Spice Cake: For a festive dessert spread, serve these cookies alongside a moist pumpkin spice cake that echoes holiday flavors.
- Cheese Platter: Offer a cheese platter with mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a salty contrast to the sweet cookies.
- Festive Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh fruits brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the cookies’ sweetness beautifully.
- Holiday Cocktails: Consider serving spiced rum or apple cider cocktails to elevate your gathering while pairing wonderfully with these cookies.
Expert Tips for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
Use Real Maple Syrup: Ensure you’re using pure maple syrup for the best flavor; imitation syrups can give your cookies an off-taste.
Chill the Dough: Don't skip refrigerating the dough! This helps maintain thickness, preventing cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Check Baking Time: Bake just until the edges are set and centers are puffy. Waiting for browning will result in a less chewy texture for your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies.
Light Baking Sheets: Opt for light-colored baking sheets to avoid over-browning, keeping those cookies soft and festive-looking.
Add Sprinkles Quickly: If decorating, add your sprinkles right after drizzling the chocolate. This helps them stick better before the chocolate sets!
Storage Tips for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and chewy for enjoying any time.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 7 days. Just make sure they’re sealed well to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze undipped cookies for up to 2 months. Simply let them cool completely, place in a single layer in a zip-top bag, and remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating: To enjoy your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of maple syrup should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using pure maple syrup for the best depth of flavor. Imitation syrup can give your cookies an off taste, making your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies less enjoyable. Check the label to ensure it’s 100% pure maple syrup for that sweet, rich goodness!
How should I store my cookies?
You can keep your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will help maintain their soft and chewy texture. If you want a bit more longevity, place them in the fridge for up to 7 days, making sure they’re sealed properly to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the undipped cookies for up to 2 months! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a zip-top bag. Try to remove as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds!
What if my dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough feels too sticky, that's okay! You can incorporate a bit more flour, about a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a soft, moldable consistency. Just be careful not to add too much at once to keep those chewy centers intact.
Are these cookies safe for people with allergies?
These Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies contain common allergens like wheat, eggs, and dairy. If baking for someone with allergies, consider using a gluten-free flour blend, a flax egg as a substitute for the egg, and swap the butter for coconut oil to make them dairy-free. Always check labels for the specific brands you use, as cross-contamination can occur!
How can I customize these cookies?
Very! Feel free to add nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch, or toss in dried cranberries for a touch of tartness. You could even sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg for a lovely warm spice twist! The possibilities are endless-make them your own!
Irresistibly Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies with White Chocolate Dip
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and maple extract until smooth. Then, mix in the egg until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a light-colored baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Use a cookie scoop to scoop dough into 1.5-ounce balls and space them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set and centers are puffy.
- After removing the cookies from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate in 30-second intervals at half power, stirring each time until smooth.
- Dip half of each cookie into the melted white chocolate and place on parchment paper. Drizzle the remaining chocolate over cookies and add festive sprinkles before they set.
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