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 your new favorite treat. Perfect for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to festive holidays—these cookies bring warmth and sweetness to the table. Plus, with their irresistible taste and chewy texture, they’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor – The combination of maple syrup and brown sugar creates a rich flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent.
• Versatile Treat – Enjoy these cookies on their own or dressed up with a drizzle of maple icing for an extra special touch.
• Perfect Texture – Achieve a delightful crisp edge with a soft, chewy center that melts in your mouth.
• Make Ahead Option – Prepare the dough in advance and chill it overnight for an even more convenient baking experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand. This will help streamline your efforts and make the baking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer – Essential for creaming butter and sugar together smoothly, ensuring a well-blended cookie dough.
• Mixing bowls – Necessary for combining dry and wet ingredients separately before mixing them together.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats – Prevent cookies from sticking to baking sheets, making cleanup easy.

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Ingredients

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

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer:
1. 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 as needed.
3. Add the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract; beat on high speed until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture:
* Mix on low speed until just combined.
* Add chopped pecans and mix on low until incorporated. The dough will be creamy and soft.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough:
* Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days. If chilling longer than a few hours, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling out.

Step 5: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

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

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Shape cookie dough balls:
* Use about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie. Place them on prepared sheets.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake each batch:
* For about 12-13 minutes until lightly browned at the edges. The centers should look very soft.

Step 8: Cool Cookies

Remove cookies from the oven:
* Bang the pan lightly on the counter if they appear puffy.
* Let cool on baking sheets for about five minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare Maple Icing

In a small saucepan over low heat:
1. Melt butter with maple syrup while whisking occasionally.
2. Once melted, remove from heat; whisk in sifted confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add a pinch of salt if desired; drizzle over cooled cookies.

These irresistible Maple Brown Sugar Cookies will stay fresh covered at room temperature for up to one week! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Maple brown sugar cookies are delightful on their own, but serving them creatively can elevate any occasion. Here are some fun ideas to enjoy these delicious treats.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair each cookie with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat that never gets old. The rich flavors of the cookie complement the creaminess of the milk perfectly.

Alongside Coffee or Tea

• Serve your cookies with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea. The sweetness of the cookies balances beautifully with the warmth and bitterness of the beverages.

As Dessert Sandwiches

• Create cookie sandwiches by adding a layer of cream cheese frosting or whipped cream between two cookies. This adds a delightful twist and extra indulgence.

With Fresh Fruit

• Accompany your cookies with slices of fresh fruit, like apples or pears. The freshness and slight tartness of the fruit will enhance the sweetness of the cookies.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your maple brown sugar cookies on a dessert platter with other baked goods. This makes for an inviting display at parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

To achieve the ultimate maple brown sugar cookies, consider these helpful tips. They’ll ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time!

• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 2 hours helps prevent spreading and promotes chewier centers.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour for accuracy. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overbake: Remove cookies from the oven when they appear soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
• Experiment with extracts: Feel free to adjust vanilla and maple extract levels to suit your taste preferences for enhanced flavor.
• Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and softness.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Serving side dishes alongside maple brown sugar cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creamy richness that complements the flavor of the cookies beautifully.

2. Whipped Cream
   Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be dolloped on top of each cookie or served on the side for added indulgence.

3. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, making it a great pairing.

4. Chocolate Sauce
   Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over cookies or serve it as a dipping option for those who love a chocolatey twist.

5. Caramel Sauce
   Offer caramel sauce for drizzling or dipping, adding another layer of sweetness that pairs well with maple flavors.

6. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt, granola, and pieces of cookie in a glass for an interesting dessert alternative that’s both tasty and visually appealing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, steer clear of these common mistakes.

• Not chilling the dough: Chilling the dough for at least 2 hours helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents spreading. Plan ahead to ensure you give your dough enough time in the fridge.

• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined; this keeps them soft and chewy.

• Ignoring oven temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (177°C). An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and cookie texture.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Always use parchment paper or silicone mats on your baking sheets. This prevents sticking and promotes even baking.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can dry out your cookies. Spoon and level your flour for accurate measurements.

• Baking straight from the fridge: Let chilled dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling. This makes it easier to handle and shape.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, warming briefly until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?

Yes! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Just chop them similarly.

How do I make vegan Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?

To create a vegan version, replace butter with plant-based margarine and substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce.

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

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I add chocolate chips to these cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips or any other favorite add-ins along with the pecans.

How long does it take to make Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?

The total time from prep to bake is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including chilling time for optimal results.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different nuts or by adding chocolate chips. They are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat anytime. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find yourself making them again!