Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
Kick off baking season with Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze! These old-fashioned oatmeal cookies are infused with rich, nutty brown butter and warm masala chai-inspired spices for extra-cozy flavor. They are perfect for holiday cookie swaps or enjoying with your afternoon tea. The thick cookies feature crisp edges and a perfectly chewy center, finished with a sweet chai maple glaze that takes them to the next level!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter, chai spices, and maple glaze creates an unforgettable taste.
- Perfectly Chewy Texture: Each cookie has a thick and chewy center that contrasts beautifully with its crisp edges.
- Versatile Occasion Treat: Ideal for holiday gatherings, cozy afternoons, or as a delightful homemade gift.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can master these delicious cookies.
- Customizable Options: You can easily adjust the spice levels or add your favorite mix-ins to suit your preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Medium skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheets
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Essential for creaming the butter and sugars together evenly, ensuring a smooth dough.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for keeping dry ingredients separate from wet ingredients until ready to combine.
- Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to baking sheets, making cleanup a breeze.
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, swirling the pan or gently stirring to prevent burning. Once browned to a dark amber hue, remove from heat and transfer to a stand mixer bowl.
Step 2: Mix Sugars and Eggs
Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar to the bowl containing 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 thoroughly.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, oats, chai spice blend, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed. Gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients in 2–3 batches until just combined. Set aside to cool slightly for 10–15 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare Baking Sheets and Preheat Oven
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). Use fingers to flatten slightly into discs on prepared sheets.
Step 5: Bake Cookies
Transfer one baking sheet at a time into the oven and bake for 12–14 minutes until edges are golden and tops are set. Remove from oven; allow cookies to cool completely before icing.
Step 6: Prepare Maple Chai Glaze
As cookies cool, make the glaze by combining all listed ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Whisk until you achieve a thick but pourable consistency; adjust with additional heavy cream if necessary.
Step 7: Ice Cookies
Once cookies have cooled completely, dunk their tops into the maple chai glaze for generous coverage.
Step 8: Let Set Before Serving
Allow iced cookies to set up for at least 10 minutes before serving. These delightful treats pair wonderfully with coffee or tea—enjoy!
How to Serve Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
These cookies are delightful on their own, but there are several ways to elevate the experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon, serving these cookies in creative ways can enhance their charm.
With a Warm Beverage
- Tea – Pair your cookies with a cup of chai tea for a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Coffee – The rich taste of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
- Hot Chocolate – For a cozy treat, serve with creamy hot chocolate topped with marshmallows.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Cheese Board – Add your cookies to a cheese platter alongside sweet cheeses and fruits for contrast.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches – Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich for an indulgent dessert.
- Dessert Bites – Slice the cookies into smaller pieces and serve as part of a dessert tasting menu.
For Gifting
- Cookie Jars – Layer the cookies in a decorative jar for a charming homemade gift.
- Holiday Treat Boxes – Include these cookies in festive treat boxes for friends and family during the holidays.
How to Perfect Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your chai oatmeal cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your baking success.
- Use Browned Butter – Browning the butter adds depth and richness that enhances the cookie flavor.
- Chill Your Dough – Letting the dough chill for 10-15 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking.
- Measure Ingredients Accurately – For consistent results, weigh your ingredients using a kitchen scale whenever possible.
- Don’t Overbake – Remove cookies from the oven when edges are golden but centers are still soft; they will continue to set while cooling.
- Adjust Glaze Consistency – If your glaze is too thick, add more cream; if too thin, add more powdered sugar until you reach desired thickness.
- Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust chai spice levels according to your taste preferences for optimal flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
While these cookies shine on their own, pairing them with side dishes can create a well-rounded snack experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices beautifully.
- Fruit Salad – Fresh fruit adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cookies.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing contrast to chewy cookies.
- Cheese Plate – Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese provide creaminess that pairs well with the cookie’s flavors.
- Nut Mixes – A variety of nuts can add crunch and enhance the overall texture experience when enjoyed alongside the cookies.
- Pecan Pie Bars – These sweet bars can amplify the dessert experience when served together during special occasions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking cookies can be tricky, especially when aiming for the perfect texture and flavor. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can prevent proper mixing, leading to uneven dough. Always let your butter and eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.
- Overmixing the dough: This can cause tough cookies rather than chewy ones. Mix until just combined to keep them soft.
- Skipping the chilling time: Not allowing your dough to chill can result in flatter cookies. Chill the dough for at least 10-15 minutes before baking for ideal thickness.
- Using outdated spices: Freshness matters! Old spices may not pack the necessary flavor punch, so always check the expiration dates before use.
- Ignoring oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
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. Just make sure they are fully cooled before freezing.
Reheating Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes for a warm treat.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
- Stovetop: Warm on a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about these delicious cookies, here are some answers to common inquiries.
How do I achieve the best texture in my Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze?
To ensure the perfect chewy texture, avoid overmixing your dough and let it chill before baking.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Yes! You can use different types of flour or sweeteners based on your preference. Just remember to adjust measurements accordingly.
What should I serve with Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze?
These cookies pair beautifully with coffee or tea, making them great for afternoon snacks or gatherings.
How long do these cookies last at room temperature?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they will last about five days at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze are an irresistible treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Their delightful flavors make them perfect for sharing during holidays or enjoying solo with a cup of tea. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips for added flair!
Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze
- Total Time: 34 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 18 cookies 1x
Description
Kick off your baking season with the delightful Seriously Thick & Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze. These old-fashioned cookies are infused with rich brown butter and warm, masala chai spices, delivering a comforting flavor that’s perfect for cozy afternoons or holiday gatherings. With crisp edges and a chewy center, each bite is elevated by a sweet maple glaze that makes these cookies irresistible. Whether you’re participating in a cookie swap or simply indulging alongside your favorite tea, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.
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
- 2 teaspoons chai spice blend
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 4–6 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a skillet over medium heat until amber in color.
- In a stand mixer, combine browned butter with sugars and mix until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla; mix well.
- 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 for 10–15 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop dough onto sheets, flatten slightly, and bake for 12–14 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool completely before icing with the maple glaze.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
