Name: Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cup Pure Maple Syrup (Use only pure, not imitation.); 1 teaspoon Maple Extract (Optional for richer flavor.); 0.75 cup Brown Sugar (Can substitute with coconut sugar.); 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (Melt before mixing.); 1 large Egg (Binds the dough.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Provides warm spice flavor.); 0.5 teaspoon Baking Soda (Helps cookies rise.); 0.25 teaspoon Fine Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 cup White Chocolate Melting Wafers (Ghirardelli brand recommended.); 0.25 cup Holly Berry Sprinkles (Optional for decoration.)

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As the scent of cinnamon wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but smile, thinking about the joy of baking my Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies. These delightful treats are more than just another holiday dessert; they are a warm invitation to gather with friends and family, sharing stories over sweet bites as the winter chill settles outside. With their soft, chewy texture and a luscious white chocolate drizzle, these cookies are perfect for cookie swaps or cozy evenings by the fire. Best of all, they come together quickly, allowing you to create a festive atmosphere without the stress of elaborate preparations. What could be better than enjoying a homemade comfort treat that brings everyone to the table? Ready to dive into this delightful recipe? Let’s bake!

Why Are These Cookies Irresistible?

Chewy Delight: With a texture so soft and chewy, each bite feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
Festive Touch: The white chocolate drizzle and holly berry sprinkles make these cookies as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Quick & Easy: Made in just a few steps, you can have these festive treats ready in no time—perfect for unexpected guests!
Versatile Flavor: Delight in the unique blend of maple and cinnamon that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa. Try adapting them by adding a hint of orange zest or using dark chocolate for a different twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are sure to be a hit at holiday gatherings, and trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you can bake them!

Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Pure Maple Syrup – Provides deep maple flavor; use only pure, not imitation, for the best taste.
Maple Extract – Strengthens the maple notes for enhanced flavor; optional but beneficial for richer taste.
Brown Sugar – Contributes to chewiness and moisture; can substitute with coconut sugar for a different flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; melt before mixing for better incorporation.
Large Egg – Binds the dough for proper texture, ensuring cookies hold together beautifully.
All-Purpose Flour – Offers structure to the cookies; can substitute with gluten-free flour mix, but results may vary.
Ground Cinnamon – Provides a warm spice flavor that complements the maple, perfect for cozy baking.
Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise slightly, giving them that perfect soft, chewy texture.
Fine Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor for a well-rounded cookie.

For the Topping

White Chocolate Melting Wafers – Used for dipping and creates a creamy finish; Ghirardelli brand recommended for best melting consistency.
Holly Berry Sprinkles – Optional for festive decoration, adding a fun holiday touch to your cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies

Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, pure maple syrup, and optional maple extract. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and creamy, ensuring the sugar is fully dissolved. Once well mixed, add in one large egg and whisk again until fully incorporated. This creates the rich and flavorful base for your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and fine salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they’re well combined and aerated. Gradually add this flour mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Ensure everything is mixed evenly, but be careful not to overwork the dough, as this could affect the cookies’ texture.

Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Chilling helps maintain the thickness and chewiness of your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies while baking, preventing them from spreading too thin. During this time, you can preheat your oven and prepare your baking sheet.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a light-colored baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from browning too much on the bottoms. Make sure your oven reaches the desired temperature before you bake the cookies to ensure even cooking and perfect texture.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Once chilled, take the dough out of the refrigerator and begin portioning it into 1.5-ounce balls, rolling them gently between your hands. Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking. You should see a lovely dough ready for your oven, rich in flavor from the maple and cinnamon.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; the edges should be set while the centers remain slightly puffed but not fully firm. Avoid overbaking, as you want the cookies to maintain their delicious chewy texture. Remove them when they’re just starting to look cooked but not browned.

Step 7: Cool the Cookies
After baking, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them firm up slightly before moving them to a cooling rack. Gently transfer the cookies to the rack using a spatula, allowing them to cool completely. Their aroma will fill your kitchen, drawing everyone in for a taste of these delightful Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies.

Step 8: Melt the White Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, add your white chocolate melting wafers. Microwave the chocolate at half power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and fully melted. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize. This creamy layer will enhance your cookies, giving them a delectable finish.

Step 9: Dip the Cookies
Once the cookies have completely cooled, dip half of each cookie into the melted white chocolate. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the cookies back on parchment paper. This step adds a luxurious touch to your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies, making them visually appealing and deliciously indulgent.

Step 10: Add Sprinkles
Before the melted chocolate sets, sprinkle holly berry sprinkles over the dipped area of the cookies. Doing this while the chocolate is still warm ensures that the sprinkles stick nicely. Let the cookies sit at room temperature until the chocolate has completely set, then they’re ready to serve or store for later enjoyment!

Expert Tips for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies

Use Pure Maple Syrup: Ensure you’re using pure maple syrup, not imitation, for authentically rich flavor in your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip refrigeration! Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes prevents cookies from spreading too much while baking, keeping them chewy.
Bake Wisely: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake; take them out when the edges are set but the centers are still soft to maintain that chewy texture.
Light Bakeware: Opt for a light-colored baking sheet—it prevents the bottoms from getting overly brown and ensures even baking.
Uniform Sizing: For perfectly consistent cookies, use a kitchen scale to ensure each dough ball is approximately 1.5 ounces, resulting in uniform baking and presentation.

Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies, and make them truly your own!

Dark Chocolate: Swap the white chocolate for dark chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor. It’s a decadent alternative that deepens the overall taste, making it perfect for chocolate lovers!
Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that complements the chewy texture. The nuts introduce a lovely contrast and boost the cookie’s heartiness, making each bite even more satisfying.
Citrus Burst: Incorporate a hint of orange zest to brighten the flavors. This twist adds a fresh edge to the sweetness of the maple, elevating your cookies to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Spice it Up: Experiment with ginger or nutmeg alongside the cinnamon to create a more complex warmth. These spices can help evoke that cozy holiday feeling even more, making your cookies uniquely memorable.
Oats for Texture: Fold in 1/2 cup of rolled oats into your cookie dough for added texture. This will give your cookies a heartier feel while lending a pleasant chew that pairs beautifully with the flavors.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Be sure to check the blend’s properties to ensure a consistent texture in your cookies.
Peanut Butter Swirls: Add peanut butter or almond butter to the dough for a nutty richness. Swirling in a couple of tablespoons right before baking introduces a delightful surprise with each bite!
Caramel Drizzle: After dipping in white chocolate, drizzle additional caramel sauce on top for a sweet, sticky finish. It’s a little indulgent but makes these cookies a showstopper, ideal for any festive gathering!

And if you’re looking for other delicious recipes, be sure to check out my Zucchini Bread Cookies or try my delightful Blueberry Cookies Soft for more tasty treats!

What to Serve with Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies

Indulging in the magic of the holiday season goes hand in hand with creating an unforgettable meal experience.

Hot Cocoa: A rich, creamy cup of cocoa elevates the sweet flavors of the cookies, creating a cozy pairing that warms the soul.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth creaminess of vanilla ice cream complements the rich maple and cinnamon, making for a delightful dessert duo.
Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in a chai latte enhance the cookies’ flavor profile, providing a warm undertone that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Roasted Nuts: Crunchy roasted nuts like pecans or walnuts add texture and a savory balance to the sweetness of the chewy cookies.
Cranberry Sauce: A tangy-sweet cranberry sauce provides a vibrant contrast, brightening each bite and adding a festive touch to your dessert table.
Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers a fruity contrast, cutting through the richness of the cookies.
Mulled Wine: The warm spices of mulled wine echo the flavors in the cookies, creating a festive harmony that echoes holiday gatherings.
Cookie Decorating Station: Set up a fun decorating station with festive sprinkles and colored icing to engage guests and add a personal touch to dessert time.

Proper Storage for Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and chewy.

Fridge: You can refrigerate the cookies to extend their shelf life. Just ensure they’re in an airtight container; they’ll last up to 7 days.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the baked cookies (before dipping) in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw before decorating.

Reheating: If you enjoy warm cookies, simply microwave them for 10-15 seconds to revive that freshly baked taste. Your Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies will be just as delightful!

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and refrigerating it. Just be sure to cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh and to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and shape the cold dough into balls and bake them as directed. For added convenience, you can also freeze the baked cookies (without the chocolate drizzle) for up to 2 months; simply thaw them before dipping in melted white chocolate and adding sprinkles. This allows you to enjoy fresh, chewy cookies any time with minimal effort!

Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of maple syrup should I use?
Absolutely, use only pure maple syrup in this recipe! Imitation syrup might work in a pinch, but it won’t give you the deep, rich flavor that makes these Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies special. Look for maple syrup labeled as “100% pure” on the bottle for the best results.

How should I store my cookies?
For fresh-from-the-oven delight, keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them where they can last up to 7 days. Just ensure they’re sealed well to maintain moisture!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Very! To freeze the dough, scoop out the cookie portions and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them in a single layer until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months! When ready to bake, simply thaw the dough and bake as instructed—it’s like having homemade cookies waiting for you.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too thin, it’s often due to the dough being too warm. Make sure you chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps them maintain their shape and keeps that delightful chew. If that still happens, you might want to check the flour measurement—it should be leveled off to avoid too little flour, which can cause spreading too!

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes! This recipe is nut-free as written. However, if you’re concerned about cross-contamination, always check the labels on your ingredients, including the chocolate wafers. They’re a great treat for various dietary needs, but it’s vital to be safe if anyone has nut allergies.