Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
Kick off baking season with Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze! These delightful cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy afternoons, or simply enjoying with your favorite cup of tea. Infused with rich brown butter and warm masala chai-inspired spices, they boast a thick, chewy center and crisp edges, topped off with a sweet maple glaze. These cookies are sure to impress anyone who tries them!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor: The combination of brown butter and chai spices creates an irresistible aroma and taste that stands out.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for cookie swaps, afternoon snacks, or holiday dessert tables.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up effortlessly.
- Generous Portions: This recipe yields 18-20 cookies, making it great for sharing.
- Deliciously Cozy: The warm spices make these cookies a comforting treat during colder months.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making these cookies, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Medium skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheets
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Provides the power needed to cream the butter and sugars together efficiently.
- Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to baking sheets, ensuring easy removal and clean-up.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups Bob’s Red Mill Unbleached White Organic All-Purpose Flour
- 2 cups Bob’s Red Mill Organic Old Fashioned Rolled Oats
- 1 tablespoon chai spice blend (see Recipe Notes)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
For the Maple Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons chai spice blend (see Recipe Notes)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 4-6 tablespoons heavy cream
How to Make Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Add the butter to a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for 3–4 minutes while swirling the pan or gently stirring to prevent burning. Once the butter reaches a dark amber hue, remove it from heat and transfer it to the bowl of a stand mixer.
Step 2: Combine Sugars
Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar to the bowl with browned butter. Using the paddle attachment, beat on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until well combined and slightly cooled. Then add the eggs and vanilla; mix until well incorporated.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, chai spice blend, baking soda, and salt. Mix well. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in 2–3 batches. Stir just until combined. Let the oatmeal cookie dough cool slightly for about 10–15 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Divide your cooled dough into 18–20 balls (about 3 tablespoons each). For ease, you may use a spring-loaded cookie scoop. Place dough balls on prepared sheets with space of 2–3 inches apart. Slightly flatten each ball into a disc shape.
Step 5: Bake Cookies
Work one baking sheet at a time by placing it in the oven. Bake for 12–14 minutes until edges turn golden and tops are set. Remove from oven and repeat with remaining cookie dough. Allow cookies to cool completely on wire racks.
Step 6: Make Maple Chai Glaze
While cookies cool, prepare your glaze by whisking all listed ingredients in a large mixing bowl until well combined. Adjust consistency by adding more heavy cream if needed so it’s thick yet pourable.
Step 7: Ice Cookies
Once cooled, dip or drizzle your iced chai oatmeal cookies with maple glaze generously over their tops.
Step 8: Let Set Before Serving
Allow iced cookies to set for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy them alongside coffee or tea for an extra special treat!
How to Serve Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
Serving your Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze can elevate your baking experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy afternoon, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With a Hot Beverage
- Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the spices in the cookies beautifully.
- Chai Tea: Enhance the chai experience by pairing these cookies with a warm cup of chai.
- Hot Chocolate: For a sweet treat, serve alongside a creamy hot chocolate during chilly days.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Mixed Cookies: Include other cookie varieties to create an appealing dessert spread.
- Fruit Slices: Fresh fruit, such as apples or pears, can balance the sweetness and add freshness.
- Cheese Board: Pair with cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar for a savory touch alongside the sweet cookies.
For Special Occasions
- Holiday Parties: These cookies make an excellent addition to holiday cookie swaps or festive gatherings.
- Gift Baskets: Package them in decorative boxes for thoughtful homemade gifts during the holidays.
How to Perfect Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
To achieve the best results with your cookies, consider these helpful tips for perfection.
- Butter Browning: Ensure you brown the butter until it reaches a deep amber color for maximum flavor.
- Proper Cooling Time: Let your dough cool slightly before baking to maintain thickness and chewiness.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Monitor Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be golden around the edges but soft in the center when done.
- Glaze Consistency Check: Adjust your glaze with heavy cream until it reaches a thick but pourable consistency for easy icing.
Best Side Dishes for Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
Pairing side dishes can enhance your cookie experience. Here are some great ideas to serve alongside your cookies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that complements the cookies’ flavors beautifully.
- Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad provides freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries – These are indulgent and pair wonderfully with chai spices.
- Caramel Sauce – Drizzling warm caramel over your cookies adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
- Cream Cheese Frosting – Spread this tangy frosting on top for a different twist on flavor.
- Nut Mix – A mix of nuts brings crunch and healthy fats that contrast nicely with chewy cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.
- Not browning the butter properly: Browning the butter adds a rich flavor. Keep an eye on it while cooking and swirl the pan frequently to prevent burning.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Combine the wet and dry ingredients just until incorporated for a chewy texture.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can affect how well they combine. Let them sit at room temperature before using for the best results.
- Skipping the chilling step: Allowing the cookie dough to cool slightly is essential for thick cookies. Don’t skip this step if you want chewy centers and crispy edges.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly. An inaccurate temperature can lead to uneven baking, so consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
- Freeze cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Layer parchment paper between cookies to keep them from sticking together.
Reheating Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie on low power for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes, covering with a lid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze.
Can I use regular oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but rolled oats give a better texture. Regular oats may make your cookies softer.
How do I customize the spices in my chai oatmeal cookies?
Feel free to adjust the chai spice blend according to your taste. You can add more cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
What’s the best way to store leftover maple glaze?
Store any leftover glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat gently before using again.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Certainly! Substitute Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour for regular flour to make gluten-free cookies.
Final Thoughts
Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze are sure to become a favorite whether you’re sharing them during holiday cookie swaps or enjoying them with tea. Their cozy flavors and delightful texture make them versatile enough for any occasion. Experiment with different spices or add-ins like nuts or dried fruit for a personalized touch!
Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 18 cookies 1x
Description
Kick off the baking season with Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze! These cookies combine the rich flavor of brown butter with a medley of warm chai spices, resulting in a delightful treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons. Each cookie features a thick, chewy center and crisp edges, all topped with a luscious maple glaze that adds sweetness and sophistication. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or gifted during the holidays, these cookies are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chai spice blend
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 teaspoons chai spice blend (for glaze)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (for glaze)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 4–6 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a skillet until dark amber and fragrant.
- Combine brown sugar and granulated sugar with browned butter using a stand mixer. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, oats, chai spice blend, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Chill dough briefly before portioning into balls on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake at 350°F for 12–14 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool cookies on wire racks before glazing them with a mixture of powdered sugar, maple syrup, and cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (about 50g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
