Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

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by Amelia

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Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

With big flavor and a delightful blend of sweetness, these Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their crisp edges and chewy centers make them hard to resist. Plus, the added maple icing takes them to a whole new level of deliciousness. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or just treating yourself, these cookies are a guaranteed hit!

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Delicious Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and brown sugar creates a rich, sweet taste that everyone will adore.
  • Chewy Texture: Enjoy cookies with crispy edges and soft, chewy centers that melt in your mouth.
  • Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, parties, or casual snacking; these cookies fit any occasion.
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip up this treat with ease.
  • Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance and chill it for up to three days—perfect for busy schedules!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mats

Importance of Each Tool

  • Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients effectively.
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
  • Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.
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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.

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 hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Cream the butter and dark 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 pure 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:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined.
2. Add chopped pecans; mix again on low speed until evenly distributed. The dough will be creamy and soft.

Step 4: Chill Dough

Cover the cookie dough:
1. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or up to three days).
2. 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:
1. Use about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie.
2. Bake each batch for about 12-13 minutes until lightly browned on the sides.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

Remove from oven:
1. If cookies look puffy, lightly bang the pan on the counter to deflate them slightly.
2. Cool cookies on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare Maple Icing

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

Step 9: Drizzle Icing

Drizzle icing over cooled cookies:
Allow icing to set for about an hour before serving.

These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies stay fresh covered at room temperature for up to one week! Enjoy your delicious homemade treats!

How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

These maple brown sugar cookies are delicious on their own, but serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some serving suggestions that pair perfectly with these sweet treats.

With a Glass of Milk

  • A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the cookies. Choose whole milk for a creamy complement.

Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream

  • Place a warm cookie on top of a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The heat from the cookie will slightly melt the ice cream, creating a delightful dessert.

Drizzled with Extra Maple Syrup

  • For maple lovers, drizzle additional pure maple syrup over the cookies for an extra burst of flavor.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

  • Enjoy these cookies alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage enhances the maple flavors in each bite.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

  • Include your cookies in a dessert platter with assorted treats like brownies and fruit tarts for variety at gatherings.

How to Perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Perfecting maple brown sugar cookies is all about attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies turn out just right every time.

  • Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 2 hours helps develop flavor and texture, resulting in chewier cookies.
  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better incorporation and a smoother dough.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies; overmixing can lead to gluten development, which makes cookies chewy instead of soft.
  • Monitor Baking Time: Watch your cookies closely as they bake. They should be lightly browned on the edges but still soft in the center when removed from the oven.
  • Cool Properly: Let cookies cool on baking sheets before transferring them to wire racks; this helps maintain their shape and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

While these cookies shine on their own, pairing them with side dishes enhances any dessert spread. Here are some great options to consider.

  1. Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
  2. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses, such as brie or sharp cheddar, which contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
  3. Chocolate Fondue: Provide melted chocolate for dipping; it’s an indulgent way to enjoy your cookies.
  4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing and healthy companion to your sweet treat.
  5. Pumpkin Spice Latte: A fall favorite that complements maple flavors beautifully while warming you up.
  6. Spiced Nuts: Provide crunchy spiced nuts as a savory contrast that pairs well with sweet desserts like these cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

  • Skipping the chilling step – Chilling the dough is essential for the right texture. Always chill for at least 2 hours.
  • Using cold ingredients – Ensure that your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth dough.
  • Overmixing the dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for chewy centers.
  • Not measuring flour correctly – Spoon and level the flour for accuracy. Too much flour can dry out your cookies.
  • Ignoring oven temperature – Preheat your oven properly. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and cookie texture.
Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
  • For longer freshness, keep them refrigerated in a sealed container.

Freezing Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

  • Freeze baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container.
  • They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

  • Oven – Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for fresh taste.
  • Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
  • Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, covered, until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I substitute other nuts in Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?

You can use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans. Both options add unique flavors while keeping the recipe delightful.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Ensure it also contains xanthan gum for structure.

What’s the best way to store Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them to maintain freshness.

How long do these cookies last?

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies stay fresh covered at room temperature for up to 1 week, or they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes! You can mix in chocolate chips along with the pecans for added sweetness and texture.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With their chewy centers and crisp edges, they make an excellent treat any time of year. Feel free to customize them by adding different nuts or even chocolate chips!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Maple Brown Sugar Cookies! These treats offer a perfect combination of crispy edges and chewy centers, enhanced by a rich maple icing. Ideal for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply treating yourself—they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, even novice bakers can whip up this delicious recipe in no time. Prepare the dough ahead of time and chill it for maximum flavor, making these cookies not just tasty, but also convenient for busy schedules.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 and 1/3 cups (291g) all-purpose flour
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl; set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream softened butter and dark brown sugar until smooth. Add the egg, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract; mix well.
  3. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until combined. Fold in chopped pecans.
  4. Chill dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before baking.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Roll dough into balls and bake for 12-13 minutes until lightly browned.
  6. Cool on baking sheets briefly before transferring to wire racks.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie (28g)
  • Calories: 140
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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