Gingerbread Maple Pecan Thumbprint Cookies combine the rich flavors of gingerbread with a delightful twist of maple pecans. These cookies are perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave a warm, spiced treat. With a soft texture and a gooey maple syrup center, they are sure to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire. Let’s dive into this cozy recipe that will fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 120
- Protein: 2g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 15g per serving
- Fat: 6g per serving
- Fiber: 0.5g per serving
- Sugar: 5g per serving
- Sodium: 50mg per serving
Why Make This Gingerbread Maple Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
These Gingerbread Maple Pecan Thumbprint Cookies bring a unique flavor profile that perfectly balances warmth and sweetness. The blend of spices like ginger and cinnamon creates that classic gingerbread taste, while the pecans add a delightful crunch. By using maple syrup as a filling, you give each bite a wonderful sweetness that complements the spices beautifully. They not only taste amazing but also make a lovely gift during the holiday season or an impressive dessert for family gatherings.
How to Make Gingerbread Maple Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
Baking these cookies is a joyous experience that fills your home with holiday scents. Follow these straightforward steps to create this delicious treat!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- Maple syrup for filling
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly.
Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. This blend of spices gives the cookies their warm, inviting flavor.
Step 3: Creaming Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract; mix well until the mixture is smooth and combined.
Step 4: Combining Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your cookies tender.
Step 5: Forming Cookie Balls
Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each ball as they will spread slightly while baking.
Step 6: Creating Thumbprints
Create a thumbprint in the center of each ball using your thumb or the back of a spoon. Fill each indent with a drizzle of maple syrup, allowing it to slightly overflow for a delicious gooey center.
Step 7: Baking
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!
Step 8: Cooling
Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle.
How to Serve Gingerbread Maple Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
Serve these charming cookies warm with a cup of tea or coffee. They are also great for holiday parties or as thoughtful gifts in decorative tins. For an extra touch, sprinkle with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
How to Store Gingerbread Maple Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to keep them longer, place them in the freezer where they can last for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Expert Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Maple Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
- Ensure your butter is softened, but not melted. This will help create the right texture for the cookies.
- If you prefer additional flavor, consider adding a touch of orange zest to the dough for a fruity twist.
- You can swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you have a preference or allergy.
- For a less sweet filling, consider using unsweetened apple butter instead of maple syrup.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Chip Gingerbread Cookies: Mix in a handful of chocolate chips for a delicious contrast to the spices.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans and replace them with a sprinkle of crystallized ginger for added texture and flavor.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute instead of regular butter.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just let it soften slightly before rolling into balls. -
What can I use instead of molasses?
You can substitute with honey or agave syrup, although this may slightly change the flavor. -
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
They should be lightly golden around the edges and set in the center. Avoid overbaking for the best texture. -
Can I add frosting to these cookies?
Yes! A simple cream cheese frosting or a glaze would pair well, especially for a festive touch. -
Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cookies or the dough itself for easy baking later on.
Conclusion
Gingerbread Maple Pecan Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy with every bite. The blend of spices and the sweet maple filling create an unforgettable flavor experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or share them with friends and family, these cookies are sure to brighten your day. So gather the ingredients, embrace the spirit of baking, and let the deliciousness unfold in your kitchen!
Print
Gingerbread Maple Pecan Thumbprint Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously spiced gingerbread cookies filled with a gooey maple syrup center, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- Maple syrup for filling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract; mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Create a thumbprint in the center of each ball and fill with a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week. The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
