Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

With big maple flavor, crisp edges, mega chewy centers, and crunchy pecans, these Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies stand out with their unique flavors and textures. The combination of maple syrup and brown sugar creates a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with the nuttiness of pecans. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for sharing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The bold taste of maple syrup combined with brown sugar creates cookies that burst with flavor.
• Chewy and Crunchy Texture: Enjoy the perfect balance of chewy centers and crispy edges in every bite.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in; these cookies fit any occasion.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, you can whip them up anytime without fuss.
• Drizzled Icing: A sweet maple icing adds an extra layer of flavor and makes them even more irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience and ensure that your cookies turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowls: Allow you to mix ingredients thoroughly without spillovers.
• Handheld Mixer or Stand Mixer: Ensures even mixing for creamy dough, saving you time and effort.
• Baking Sheets: Provides a flat surface for even baking; using parchment helps prevent sticking.
• Cooling Rack: Promotes airflow around baked goods, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

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

For the Cookies:

• 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 Your Ingredients

Begin by measuring out all your ingredients accurately. This will ensure consistent results.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl using your mixer:
1. Beat the softened butter and brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and creamy—about 3 minutes.
2. Add the egg and beat on high speed until fully combined—approximately 30 seconds. Scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the following to your butter-sugar mixture:
– Pure maple syrup
– Vanilla extract
– Maple extract

Mix on high speed until combined—around 1 minute.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients Into Wet Mixture

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to your wet ingredients:
1. Beat on low speed until just combined.
2. Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Cover your cookie dough tightly:
– Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days for best results.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

When you’re ready to bake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 8: Shape Cookies

Once chilled:
1. Scoop out about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie.
2. Roll into balls and place them on prepared baking sheets about 3 inches apart.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for:
12–13 minutes until edges are lightly browned but centers remain soft. Let cool on sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 10: Make Icing

In a small saucepan over low heat:
1. Melt together butter and maple syrup while whisking occasionally.
2. Once melted, remove from heat; whisk in sifted confectioners’ sugar and salt until smooth.

Step 11: Drizzle Icing

After cookies are cooled completely:
Drizzle icing over each cookie using a spoon or piping bag; allow it to set for about an hour before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Maple Brown Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Serving maple brown sugar cookies can be a delightful experience. These cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their rich, maple flavor.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly, making for a cozy snack.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Take two cookies and sandwich your favorite ice cream between them for a delicious treat on warm days.

Drizzle with Extra Maple Syrup

• For an indulgent touch, drizzle additional maple syrup over the cookies before serving.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Pairing these cookies with slices of fresh fruit like apples or pears adds a refreshing contrast to their sweetness.

Add Whipped Cream

• Top each cookie with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of creaminess and texture.

How to Perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Creating the perfect maple brown sugar cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out great every time:

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 2 hours helps develop flavors and prevents spreading during baking.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag; this avoids overly dense cookies.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies from the oven when edges are set but centers look soft; they will continue cooking on the baking sheet.
• Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and chewiness.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Enhancing your dessert experience is easy with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside your maple brown sugar cookies:

1. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to sweet cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses balances the sweetness while adding savory notes that pair well with maple flavors.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruit; it creates a creamy, crunchy side that complements the soft texture of the cookies.

4. Chocolate Fondue
   For an indulgent experience, serve chocolate fondue as a dip for cookie pieces.

5. Nut Mix
   A bowl of assorted nuts offers crunch and healthy fats, balancing out the sweetness of the cookies.

6. Coffee or Tea
   The warmth of brewed beverages pairs beautifully with these sweet treats, making for a comforting snack time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, small errors can lead to big differences in taste and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not chilling the dough: Chilling the cookie dough is crucial for achieving the right texture. Always refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

• Skipping the measuring technique: Properly spooning and leveling your flour can prevent dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much after adding the flour can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft and chewy texture.

• Baking on unlined sheets: Baking directly on metal sheets can cause uneven cooking. Always use parchment paper or silicone mats for best results.

• Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies. Remove them when edges are golden but centers look soft to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate cookies for up to a week in an airtight container.

Freezing Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

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.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Watch closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Maple Brown Sugar Cookies:

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures like regular flour.

What is the secret to chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?

The secret lies in not overmixing and ensuring you chill your dough adequately before baking.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Incorporating chocolate chips adds extra sweetness and richness to your cookies.

How do I enhance the maple flavor?

To boost maple flavor, consider using pure maple extract along with syrup in your recipe.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! The chewy centers paired with crunchy pecans make them irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding different nuts or even chocolate chips. Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try and enjoy fresh-baked goodness straight from your kitchen!