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 cookie swaps, cozy afternoon treats, or even just to enjoy with a cup of tea. With their rich, nutty brown butter and a blend of warm spices inspired by masala chai, these cookies are a true standout. Their thick texture, crisp edges, and chewy centers make them irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and chai spices creates a uniquely delicious taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings, tea parties, or simply as an everyday treat.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions and common ingredients, anyone can whip up these delightful cookies.
• Customizable Glaze: The maple glaze adds a sweet finish but can be adjusted based on your preferences – try adding extra spices for a twist!
• Great Texture: Enjoy the satisfying contrast between crisp edges and a soft, chewy center in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Medium skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes mixing ingredients effortless and ensures a well-combined dough.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment prevents sticking and helps achieve evenly baked cookies.
• Cookie scoop: A cookie scoop allows for uniform dough balls, ensuring consistent baking results.

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 or gently stirring to prevent burning. Once it reaches a dark amber hue, remove from heat and transfer to the bowl of a stand mixer.

Step 2: Mix Sugars and Eggs

Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar to the bowl with the browned butter. Using the paddle attachment, beat on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla; mix until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add flour, oats, chai spice blend, baking soda, and salt. Mix until combined. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in batches until just combined. Set aside to cool slightly for about 10–15 minutes.

Step 4: Preheat Oven and Prepare Dough

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Divide cooled cookie dough into 18–20 balls (about 3 tablespoons each). Use your fingers to flatten them slightly into discs before placing them on prepared sheets.

Step 5: Bake Cookies

Transfer one baking sheet at a time into the oven. Bake for 12–14 minutes until edges are golden and tops are set. Remove from oven and cool completely on racks before icing.

Step 6: Prepare Maple Chai Glaze

While cookies cool, whisk together all glaze ingredients in a large mixing bowl until you achieve a thick yet pourable consistency. Adjust with extra heavy cream as needed.

Step 7: Ice Your Cookies

Once cooled, dunk the tops of your chai oatmeal cookies into the maple chai glaze for generous coating.

Step 8: Let Set Before Serving

Allow iced cookies to set for at least 10 minutes before serving. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea—enjoy!

These Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection!

How to Serve Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze

These Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze are not just delicious; they also pair wonderfully with a variety of drinks and snacks. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With Hot Beverages

• Tea: A warm cup of chai tea complements the spices in the cookies perfectly.
• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the maple glaze.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy these cookies dipped in a creamy hot chocolate for a sweet treat.

As Dessert Platter

• Cheese Board: Pair them with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a delightful contrast.
• Fruit Medley: Fresh fruits like apples and pears balance the richness of the cookies.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to sandwich your favorite ice cream flavor for a fun twist.

For Celebrations

• Holiday Cookie Swap: These cookies make an excellent addition to any holiday dessert table.
• Gift Baskets: Package them beautifully as gifts for friends and family during festive seasons.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze

To achieve cookie perfection, follow these handy tips that ensure your Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies turn out amazing every time.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground chai spices enhance flavor, making your cookies taste vibrant and aromatic.
• Check Doneness Carefully: Remove cookies from the oven when edges are golden but centers appear slightly underbaked; they will continue cooking on the baking sheet.
• Adjust Glaze Consistency: Ensure your maple glaze is thick but pourable; add more cream if it’s too thick or more powdered sugar if too thin.

Best Side Dishes for Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze

While these cookies shine on their own, pairing them with some tasty side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can create a savory balance alongside the sweet cookies.
2. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and contrasts nicely with the cookie’s richness.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie in warm chocolate for an indulgent treat.
4. Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix provides texture that complements the chewiness of the cookies.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and cookie chunks in a glass for a unique dessert experience.
6. Herbal Tea Selection: Offer different herbal teas as refreshing accompaniments that enhance the chai flavors in the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking these Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes that could hinder your success. Here are a few key pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the brown butter: Brown butter adds depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step; take the time to achieve that nutty aroma.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Not cooling the dough: Cooling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape. Set aside for 10-15 minutes before baking.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfect results.
• Using stale spices: Fresh spices make a big difference in flavor. Always check your spice freshness before baking.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds; watch closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze:

Can I substitute the butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can use margarine or coconut oil, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly.

How do I make my oatmeal cookies even chewier?

Adding an extra egg yolk can enhance chewiness without compromising structure.

What if I don’t have chai spice blend?

You can create your own blend using cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves as substitutes.

How should I store leftover maple glaze?

Store any leftover glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze are not only a treat but also offer versatility. You can enjoy them with coffee or tea, share them during holidays, or customize them with your favorite mix-ins. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe that blends cozy flavors into every bite!