Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

With big flavor, crisp edges, mega chewy centers, and a delightful maple icing, these Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to make and sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these cookies bring warmth and joy with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and maple creates a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies boast a chewy center with crispy edges, giving you the best of both worlds.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or as an everyday snack.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Great for Sharing: With 28-30 cookies per batch, they’re ideal for sharing with friends or family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients effectively.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Saves time and energy when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Baking sheets: Ensure even baking; always line them with parchment paper for easier cookie removal.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 2 and 1/3 cups (291g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup (200g) packed dark brown sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup (80ml) pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon maple extract
• 1 cup (130g) chopped pecans

For the Maple Icing

• 2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup (80ml) pure maple syrup
• 1 cup (112g) sifted confectioners’ sugar
• Pinch salt, to taste

How to Make Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

1. Whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt together in a medium bowl. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the butter and brown sugar together on medium speed until smooth, about 1–2 minutes.
2. Add the egg and beat on high until combined, about 30 seconds. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
3. Add the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract; then beat on high speed until combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix on low until just combined.
2. Add in the chopped pecans; mix on low speed until combined. Dough will be creamy and soft.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

1. Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
2. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Line 2–3 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

1. Roll cookie dough into balls using about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie.
2. Bake each batch for about 12–13 minutes until lightly browned on the sides but still soft in the center.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

1. Remove from oven; if cookies look puffy, lightly bang the pan on the counter to deflate slightly.
2. Cool cookies on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make Maple Icing

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt together butter and maple syrup while whisking occasionally.
2. Once melted, remove from heat; whisk in sifted confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
3. Taste and add a pinch of salt if desired; drizzle over cooled cookies once icing is set after about an hour.

Step 9: Store Cookies

Cookies stay fresh covered at room temperature for up to one week! Enjoy your homemade Maple Brown Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Maple brown sugar cookies are delightful on their own, but there are many ways to elevate your serving experience. Here are some creative suggestions to enjoy these tasty treats.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pairing your cookies with a warm cup of coffee can enhance the flavors. The rich coffee complements the sweetness of the maple cookies perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create delicious ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This treat is perfect for warm days!

Drizzled with Extra Maple Syrup

• Adding a drizzle of pure maple syrup over the cookies gives an extra boost of flavor and makes them look irresistible.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Combine these cookies with other baked goods on a dessert platter. This allows guests to sample different treats, making any gathering more festive.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruit like apple slices or berries. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the cookies nicely.

How to Perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

To ensure your maple brown sugar cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips.

• Chill Your Dough: Always chill your cookie dough for at least 2 hours before baking. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping it directly from the bag. This prevents dense cookies caused by too much flour.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure that all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Remove them when they are lightly browned at the edges but still soft in the center for that chewy texture.

• Cool Properly: Let your cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This helps maintain their shape.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Complementing your maple brown sugar cookies with side dishes can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances sweetness.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast.
3. Coffee Cake: The buttery flavor and crumbly texture make it a great accompaniment.
4. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy, this dish pairs beautifully with sweet flavors.
5. Cheesecake Bites: These bite-sized treats bring tanginess that contrasts nicely with sweetness.
6. Hot Chocolate: A cozy drink option that enhances the warmth of freshly baked cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Maple Brown Sugar Cookies can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can hinder your cookie perfection.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and affect the dough’s texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is essential for achieving the perfect texture. If you skip this step, your cookies might spread too much during baking.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a chewy, soft center.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour when measuring to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can make them dry.
• Ignoring baking times: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Taking them out too late can lead to overbaking, while taking them out too early may leave them raw in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making these delicious Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, here are some answers.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

You can definitely substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds. Just ensure they’re finely chopped so they mix well into the dough.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies should be lightly browned on the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute. Ensure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately.

What if I don’t have maple extract?

If you don’t have maple extract, simply increase the amount of pure maple syrup slightly to enhance the maple flavor without sacrificing moisture.

How should I store leftover cookie icing?

Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. When ready to use, stir it well before drizzling over cookies again.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are sure to impress with their big flavor and chewy texture. Their versatility allows for endless customization options like adding chocolate chips or using different nuts. Give this recipe a try and enjoy delicious cookies that will delight family and friends!