Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

With big flavor, crisp edges, mega chewy centers, and a delightful maple icing, these Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Perfect for any occasion, from cozy gatherings to festive celebrations, these cookies stand out with their unique sweetness and texture. The combination of brown sugar and pure maple syrup creates a deliciously rich flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time.
• Deliciously Chewy: The combination of brown sugar and maple syrup gives these cookies their signature chewy texture that you can’t resist.
• Versatile Treat: Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just want a sweet snack, these cookies fit any occasion perfectly.
• Drizzled Delight: The maple icing adds an extra layer of sweetness while enhancing the cookie’s flavor profile.
• Perfect for Sharing: With about 28 cookies per batch, they’re ideal for sharing with friends and family or saving for yourself!

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugar easy and ensures a well-mixed dough.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining dry and wet ingredients separately before mixing them together.
• Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies to perfection.

Ingredients

With big flavor, crisp edges, mega chewy centers, and maple icing, these maple brown sugar cookies are a definite favorite. Chilling the cookie dough is imperative, so set aside 2 hours or prepare the cookie dough the day before.

For the Cookie Dough

• 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: Whisk Dry Ingredients

Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Cream the softened butter and dark brown sugar together on medium speed until smooth (about 1–2 minutes).
2. Add the egg; beat on high until combined (about 30 seconds), scraping down sides as needed.
3. Mix in maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients:
* Mix on low speed until just combined.
* Add chopped pecans; beat on low speed until fully incorporated. The dough should be creamy and soft.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container:
* Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or up to 3 days).
* If chilling longer than a few hours, let sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling out.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C):
* Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Roll cookie dough into balls using about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie:
* Bake each batch for about 12–13 minutes until lightly browned on the edges; centers will look soft.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

Once baked:
* Remove from oven; if puffy, lightly bang pan on counter to deflate slightly.
* Let cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 8: Make Maple Icing

In a small saucepan over low heat:
1. Melt butter with maple syrup while whisking occasionally.
2. Remove from heat; whisk in sifted confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
3. Taste; add pinch of salt if desired.

Drizzle icing over cooled cookies; it will set after about one hour.

Step 9: Store Cookies

Store your cookies covered at room temperature for up to one week! Enjoy every bite of your delicious Maple Brown Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Maple brown sugar cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, consider these serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that complements their sweetness perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Drizzled with Extra Maple Syrup

• For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle some pure maple syrup over the cookies just before serving. This adds a delightful sweetness and enhances the maple taste.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter with other desserts for a stunning presentation at your next event or gathering.

With Fruit Compote

• Serve alongside a warm fruit compote, such as apple or berry, to create a delicious contrast of flavors and temperatures.

How to Perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

To achieve the ultimate maple brown sugar cookies, keep these tips in mind. Proper preparation and technique can elevate your cookie game!

• Chill the Dough: Always chill the cookie dough for at least 2 hours. This helps to firm up the dough, resulting in perfect texture after baking.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This creates a smoother batter and more uniform cookies.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents excess flour, which can lead to dry cookies.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on baking time. Remove the cookies when they’re lightly browned at the edges but still soft in the center for maximum chewiness.

• Experiment with Nuts: Try different nuts like walnuts or almonds instead of pecans to personalize the flavor profile of your cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Pairing side dishes with maple brown sugar cookies can create an exciting dessert spread. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of cookies while adding a nutritious element.

2. Cheese Platter: The rich flavors of cheese, especially creamy varieties like Brie or goat cheese, can balance out the sweetness beautifully.

3. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs well with these cookies, enhancing their flavors while providing a cozy experience.

4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light side dish that offers both texture and contrasting flavors.

5. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for an interactive dessert option.

6. Mini Cheesecakes: Serve individual mini cheesecakes as a rich side dish that contrasts nicely with the chewy texture of maple brown sugar cookies.

7. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of homemade caramel sauce over each cookie adds an indulgent finish that’s hard to resist.

8. Pecan Pie Bars: These bars echo similar flavors found in maple brown sugar cookies, making them perfect companions on any dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your baking game. Here are some pitfalls to watch for when making maple brown sugar cookies:

• Incorrect measurements: Using too much or too little flour can affect the texture. Always spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial for chewy cookies. Don’t rush this step; refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined after adding dry ingredients.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven can impact cookie rise and texture. Always preheat your oven before baking.
• Ignoring baking time: Cookies can go from perfect to burnt quickly. Keep an eye on them, especially towards the end of baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep cookies at room temperature or in the fridge if you prefer them chilled.

Freezing Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
• Place in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container after frozen solid.

Reheating Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for optimal texture.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds; avoid overheating to prevent dryness.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, warming each cookie for about 30 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding maple brown sugar cookies:

How do I make my Maple Brown Sugar Cookies chewier?

For chewier cookies, ensure you chill the dough properly and avoid overbaking them.

Can I substitute different nuts in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap pecans with walnuts or even omit nuts entirely if desired.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, you may need to add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much as that can alter the texture.

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

You can use light brown sugar, but dark brown sugar enhances the flavor and moisture of your cookies.

How do I make Maple Brown Sugar Cookies without nuts?

Simply omit the chopped pecans from the recipe. The cookies will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

These maple brown sugar cookies are a delightful treat with their crispy edges and chewy centers. They are versatile enough for any occasion and can easily be customized with different flavors or mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a batch of these irresistible cookies!