In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Continue to cook until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and browned butter. Mix until well combined.
Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Whisk together until smooth.
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined. The dough will be thick. If desired, fold in the maple syrup for added sweetness and flavor.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.