Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With their rich maple flavor, crisp edges, chewy centers, and crunchy pecans, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Perfect for gatherings, holiday festivities, or simply indulging yourself, this recipe offers a unique twist on traditional cookies that everyone will love. Remember to chill the cookie dough for at least 2 hours for the best results!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Big Maple Flavor – The combination of pure maple syrup and maple extract creates an irresistible taste.
• Crisp Edges and Chewy Centers – Achieve the perfect cookie texture that’s both satisfying and delicious.
• Versatile Treat – Ideal for any occasion, from casual snacks to festive gatherings.
• Easy Preparation – Simple steps make this recipe approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Nutty Crunch – Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch that complements the soft cookie.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delicious Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will streamline the baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer – These tools save time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Mixing bowls – Essential for keeping ingredients organized during preparation.
• Baking sheets – Ensure even baking when lined with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 and 1/3 cups (292g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 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 (113g/80ml) pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon maple extract
• 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans

For the Icing

• 2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup (113g/80ml) pure maple syrup
• 1 cup (112g) sifted confectioners’ sugar
• Pinch of salt, to taste

How to Make Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl using a handheld mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Beat the softened butter and dark brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and creamy (about 3 minutes).
2. Add in the egg and beat on high speed until combined (about 30 seconds). Scrape down sides as needed.
3. Mix in pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract until blended (about 1 minute).

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture:
* Beat on low speed until just combined.
* Add in chopped pecans and mix until incorporated. The dough should be creamy and soft.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap:
* Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C):
* Line large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
* If chilled longer than 3 hours, let dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie:
* Roll into balls and place them about 3 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake for 12–13 minutes:
* Watch for lightly browned edges with soft centers.
* Cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Make Icing

In a small saucepan over low heat:
* Melt unsalted butter with pure maple syrup while whisking occasionally.
Once melted:
* Remove from heat; whisk in sifted confectioners’ sugar and salt. Taste icing.

Final Touches

Drizzle icing over cooled cookies:
* Allow icing to set for about an hour before serving. Store cookies tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to one week.

Enjoy your homemade Maple Brown Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Serving maple brown sugar cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy these tasty treats.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing these cookies with cold milk is a classic choice that complements the sweetness and adds a creamy texture.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich filled with your favorite ice cream flavor for an indulgent dessert.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or berries, to balance out the sweetness and add a refreshing element.

Drizzled with Extra Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup over the cookies adds an extra layer of flavor and enhances their maple essence.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your maple brown sugar cookies on a decorative platter for a beautiful presentation at gatherings or parties.

How to Perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Perfecting your maple brown sugar cookies is all about technique and timing. Follow these tips to achieve cookie perfection.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 2 hours helps develop flavors and ensures chewy centers.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients like butter and eggs should be at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; remove them when edges are set but centers look soft for optimal chewiness.
• Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your maple brown sugar cookies can elevate your dessert table. Here are some ideal options:

1. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing side that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy side that balances the cookie’s richness.
4. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce enhances the flavor profile, creating a decadent treat.
5. Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Melted chocolate pairs wonderfully, allowing you to dip each cookie for added indulgence.
6. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea brings out the maple flavors while providing a cozy experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can alter their texture and flavor.

• Incorrect Flour Measurement: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Always spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Skipping the Chill Time: Not chilling the dough can result in flat cookies. Allow at least 2 hours in the fridge for proper texture.
• Inaccurate Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can underbake or overbake your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined for optimal chewiness.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Transferring cookies too soon from the baking sheet can cause them to break. Let them cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before moving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 days.

Freezing Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C). Bake cookies for about 5 minutes to warm through.
• Microwave: Heat cookies on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping once, for about 1 minute per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Maple Brown Sugar Cookies that may help you during your baking experience.

Can I substitute other nuts in Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?

You can easily replace pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges should be lightly browned, while the centers remain soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?

Yes, but using dark brown sugar gives a deeper molasses flavor. Light brown sugar will still work but will yield a milder taste.

Why do I need to chill the dough for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?

Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker and chewier cookies with better texture.

What is the best way to store leftover Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. With their chewy centers and rich maple flavor, they make a perfect treat any time of year. Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips or other nuts according to your taste!