With big maple flavor, crisp edges, mega chewy centers, and crunchy pecans, these Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are a definite favorite. Perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies stand out with their unique blend of flavors. The dough needs to chill for at least 2 hours, ensuring that each bite is perfectly textured and full of delicious maple goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and brown sugar creates a rich, sweet taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Chewy Texture: These cookies feature a chewy center and crisp edges, giving you the best of both worlds.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an everyday treat, these cookies fit right in.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
- Easy to Make Ahead: Prepare the dough ahead of time; it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking these delectable cookies, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Handheld mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Handheld mixer or stand mixer: Makes mixing the butter and sugar easy and ensures a light texture in your cookies.
- Baking sheets: Provide a sturdy surface for baking; lining them prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl using a handheld mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Beat the softened unsalted butter with the packed dark brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and creamy—this should take about 3 minutes.
2. Add in the large egg and beat on high speed until fully combined (about 30 seconds). Scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Incorporate the pure maple syrup, pure vanilla extract, and maple extract into the mixture. Beat on high speed again until everything is combined—approximately one minute.
4. Gradually pour the dry ingredients into this wet mixture while beating on low speed until just combined.
5. Finally, fold in the chopped pecans gently using a spatula until incorporated.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover your cookie dough tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but you can leave it up to 3 days if needed.
Step 4: Preheat Oven
When you’re ready to bake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Line large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
After chilling:
1. Scoop out about 1.5 Tablespoons (35g) of dough per cookie ball.
2. Roll them into smooth balls and place them about 3 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.
Step 6: Bake
Bake your cookies for about 12–13 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned but centers remain soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 7: Prepare Icing
In a small saucepan over low heat:
1. Melt together 2 Tablespoons of butter with another 1/3 cup of pure maple syrup, whisking occasionally until smooth.
2. Remove from heat; whisk in sifted confectioners’ sugar along with a pinch of salt to taste.
3. Drizzle this icing over cooled cookies once they have completely set after about an hour.
These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to one week! Enjoy your delightful creation!
How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
Maple brown sugar cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them solo, here are some creative serving suggestions.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic combination. The creaminess of the milk complements the sweet maple flavor perfectly.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich. Choose your favorite ice cream flavor, and let it melt slightly for the ultimate gooey experience.
Coffee Companion
- Enjoy these cookies alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The rich flavors of maple and brown sugar enhance the warm notes of your beverage.
As Dessert Platter
- Arrange cookies on a dessert platter with fresh fruit and nuts for an elegant presentation. This makes for a great centerpiece at parties or special occasions.
Gift-Wrapped Treats
- Package individual cookies in decorative bags or boxes as gifts. They make lovely homemade treats for friends and family during holidays or celebrations.
How to Perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
To ensure your maple brown sugar cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps solidify the butter, leading to thicker cookies with chewy centers.
Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can change their texture drastically.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better incorporation.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should look soft in the center when you take them out. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
Add Extra Pecans: For more crunch, sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top just before baking.
Store Properly: Keep cookies tightly covered at room temperature to maintain their freshness and softness for days.
Best Side Dishes for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
These delicious maple brown sugar cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, balancing flavors beautifully.
Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like brie or cheddar; their savory profiles complement the sweet notes of the cookies.
Nut Mix: A blend of roasted nuts provides crunch and saltiness, enhancing your snacking experience alongside these sweet treats.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side dish that pairs well with the cookie’s texture and flavor.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate fondue for an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will appreciate.
Hot Chocolate: Serve with a cup of rich hot chocolate for an extra cozy pairing, perfect for chilly days or festive gatherings.
Spiced Tea: A warm spiced chai or herbal tea complements the maple flavors, making this combo ideal for an afternoon snack break.
Ice Cream Scoop: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream elevates this dessert experience into something truly special!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making maple brown sugar cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not chilling the dough – Skipping the chilling step can lead to flat cookies. Always refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours to maintain their shape.
- Using cold ingredients – Using cold butter or eggs can affect the texture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Overmixing the dough – Mixing too much can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined to keep them tender and chewy.
- Incorrect measuring of flour – Scooping directly from the bag can pack flour and lead to dry cookies. Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
- Ignoring baking times – Baking cookies for too long will result in hard edges. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly browned but soft in the center when done.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- If refrigerated, they can last up to 1 week in a sealed container.
Freezing Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
- Freeze unbaked cookie dough: Scoop cookies onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Baked cookies can also be frozen: Place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers, lasting up to 3 months.
Reheating Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and heat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave – Heat each cookie on a plate for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop – Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about a minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making maple brown sugar cookies:
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark?
You can use light brown sugar, but dark brown sugar adds a deeper flavor due to its higher molasses content.
How do I make my cookies chewier?
To enhance chewiness, avoid overbaking your cookies and consider adding an extra egg yolk.
Can I substitute maple syrup with anything else?
While maple syrup gives these cookies their unique flavor, you can use honey or agave syrup as alternatives, though the taste will differ.
How should I store leftover icing?
Leftover icing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using it again, allow it to come back to room temperature.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky after mixing, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.
Final Thoughts
Maple brown sugar cookies combine warmth and deliciousness that is hard to resist. They’re perfect for any occasion and offer plenty of customization options like adding chocolate chips or different nuts. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats!
Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Maple Brown Sugar Cookies. These delightful treats feature a rich maple flavor complemented by chewy centers and crispy edges, making them a perfect sweet snack for any occasion. The addition of crunchy pecans adds texture and depth, elevating each bite to a new level of deliciousness. Ideal for cozy nights at home or festive gatherings, these cookies are not only easy to make but also use simple ingredients you likely have on hand. With the dough needing just a couple of hours to chill, you can prepare it ahead of time and enjoy freshly baked cookies whenever the craving strikes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 and 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon maple extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup sifted confectioners’ sugar
- pinch of salt, to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
- In a large bowl using a handheld mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment: Beat the softened unsalted butter with the packed dark brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and creamy—this should take about 3 minutes. Add in the large egg and beat on high speed until fully combined (about 30 seconds). Scrape down the sides as needed. Incorporate the pure maple syrup, pure vanilla extract, and maple extract into the mixture. Beat on high speed again until everything is combined—approximately one minute. Gradually pour the dry ingredients into this wet mixture while beating on low speed until just combined. Finally, fold in the chopped pecans gently using a spatula until incorporated.
- Cover your cookie dough tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but you can leave it up to 3 days if needed.
- When you're ready to bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- After chilling: Scoop out about 1.5 Tablespoons (35g) of dough per cookie ball. Roll them into smooth balls and place them about 3 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.
- Bake your cookies for about 12–13 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned but centers remain soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- In a small saucepan over low heat: Melt together 2 Tablespoons of butter with another 1/3 cup of pure maple syrup, whisking occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat; whisk in sifted confectioners’ sugar along with a pinch of salt to taste. Drizzle this icing over cooled cookies once they have completely set after about an hour.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (35g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
