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 combine the flavors of warm, aromatic spices with a chewy texture that makes them irresistible. Perfect for cookie swaps or enjoying alongside your favorite tea, these cookies are sure to please everyone. The rich brown butter adds a nutty depth while the maple glaze brings a sweet finish, making them a standout treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chai spices and brown butter creates a unique, cozy taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy cookies that are thick and chewy on the inside, with crisp edges for that ideal bite.
• Versatile Treat: Great for holiday cookie swaps, afternoon snacks, or even as a sweet gift for loved ones.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these cookies is a breeze.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The maple glaze not only enhances the flavor but also makes these cookies visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious chai oatmeal cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes mixing ingredients quick and efficient, ensuring everything is well combined without much effort.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets with this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.

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 browned to a dark amber hue, remove from heat and transfer to the bowl of a stand mixer.

Step 2: Mix Sugars and Eggs

In the stand mixer bowl with the browned butter, add both sugars. Beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until well combined. Then add eggs and vanilla extract; mix until fully integrated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, oats, chai spice blend, baking soda, and salt until combined. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into wet mixture in 2-3 batches. Mix just until combined and set aside to cool slightly (10–15 minutes).

Step 4: Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Divide cooled cookie dough into 18–20 balls (about 3 tablespoons each). Space them 2–3 inches apart on the prepared sheets and gently flatten each ball into a disc shape.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Bake one sheet at a time for 12–14 minutes until edges are golden and tops are set. Remove from oven and let cool completely before repeating with remaining dough.

Step 6: Make the Maple Chai Glaze

While cookies cool, prepare glaze by whisking all listed ingredients in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Adjust thickness as needed with extra cream for desired consistency.

Step 7: Ice the Cookies

Once cooled, ice each cookie by dunking its top into the glaze for an even coating.

Step 8: Let Set Before Serving

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

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

These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon treat or a festive holiday gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee accentuates the rich flavors of the chai spices in the cookies, creating a comforting combination.

Enjoy with Tea

• The soothing qualities of herbal or black tea complement the cookies perfectly, making for a delightful afternoon snack.

Serve Warm with Ice Cream

• Heat the cookies slightly and serve them alongside vanilla or caramel ice cream for a decadent dessert that melts in your mouth.

Use as a Dessert Table Feature

• Arrange these cookies on a platter alongside other treats to create an inviting dessert table at parties and gatherings.

Gift them

• Package these cookies in decorative boxes for thoughtful homemade gifts during the holiday season or special occasions.

Create a Cookie Sandwich

• Spread cream cheese or whipped cream between two cookies for a delicious twist that adds creaminess and flavor.

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

Baking these cookies can be simple, but there are ways to elevate them. Keep these tips in mind for the best results.

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices will enhance the chai flavor. Consider grinding whole spices if possible for optimal taste.
• Chill Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading.
• Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly calibrated. An accurate temperature ensures even baking.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Adjust Glaze Consistency: If your glaze is too thick, add extra cream gradually until you reach the desired pourable consistency.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their chewiness.

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

To create a well-rounded snack or dessert spread, consider these delicious side dishes that pair beautifully with your cookies.

1. Charcuterie Board: Include cheeses, fruits, and nuts to offer contrasting textures and flavors that complement the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can balance out the richness of the chai oatmeal cookies.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a healthy side that enhances your cookie experience.
4. Cheese Platter: Select mild cheeses like brie or gouda to create an elegant pairing that contrasts nicely with the spice of the cookies.
5. Homemade Hot Chocolate: Rich, creamy hot chocolate makes for a comforting drink that pairs wonderfully with warm cookies.
6. Savory Crackers: Serve an assortment of savory crackers alongside your cookies to provide guests with diverse flavors and textures.
7. Nut Mix: A blend of spiced nuts acts as a crunchy contrast while echoing some of the chai flavors found in the oatmeal cookies.
8. Cinnamon Applesauce: Serve warm cinnamon applesauce as a sweet dip or side dish that echoes the spices used in your cookie recipe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with cookies like Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold eggs or butter can result in uneven mixing. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature for the best texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the dry ingredients are combined with the wet ingredients for a perfect chewy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure you’re adding the right amounts.
• Skipping parchment paper: Not lining your baking sheets can cause cookies to stick and burn. Always use parchment paper to ensure a clean bake and easy release.
• Baking on an overcrowded sheet: Placing too many dough balls on one sheet can lead to uneven baking. Space them at least 2-3 inches apart for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze

• Freeze cookies after baking and glazing, placing them in a single layer in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for optimal softness.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze?

Follow the recipe closely, ensuring you measure all ingredients correctly and mix just until combined for chewy results.

Can I customize the spices in this cookie recipe?

Yes! Feel free to adjust the chai spice blend according to your taste preferences. Add more cinnamon or ginger if desired.

What is the best way to store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, they last about a week at room temperature and up to three months when frozen.

Can I use other types of sweeteners instead of brown sugar?

Yes, you can experiment with coconut sugar or maple sugar as alternatives, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze are not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or dried fruits based on your preference. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to afternoon tea breaks. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today!