Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

With the perfect blend of sweetness and warmth, Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Their chewy centers and crisp edges, topped with a luscious maple icing, make them an irresistible choice for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in. These cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also fill your home with a comforting aroma that invites everyone to indulge.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and brown sugar delivers a rich and sweet taste that will have you coming back for more.
• Chewy Texture: Enjoy the perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers, making every bite satisfying.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are great for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday baking, cookie exchanges, or as a sweet snack any time of the year.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance and chill it, allowing you to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking your Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Essential for creaminess in batter; ensures even mixing for a consistent texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to successful baking; they prevent mishaps with ingredient proportions.
• Cookie scoop: Helps create uniform cookie sizes; ensures even baking and delightful presentation.

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 Cookies

• 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: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt 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 softened butter with the dark brown sugar on medium speed until smooth (about 1-2 minutes).
2. Add the egg; beat on high until fully combined (about 30 seconds). Scrape down sides if necessary.
3. Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract; mix on high until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined.
2. Fold in chopped pecans gently until evenly distributed. The dough should be creamy and soft.

Step 4: Chill Dough

Cover the dough tightly:
– Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (up to 3 days). If chilled longer than a few hours, let sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) while preparing your baking sheets:
– Line them with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy removal of cookies.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Roll cookie dough into balls using about 1.5 tablespoons per cookie:
– Bake each batch for approximately 12-13 minutes until lightly browned around the edges but still soft in the center.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

Once baked:
– If cookies appear puffy after removing from oven, lightly bang the pan on counter to deflate slightly.
– Let cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Step 8: 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. Taste; add a pinch of salt if desired. Drizzle over cooled cookies once icing is ready.

Step 9: Store Cookies

Cookies can stay fresh when covered at room temperature for up to one week.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious homemade Maple Brown Sugar Cookies! Happy baking!

How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Serving maple brown sugar cookies is all about enhancing their delicious flavor and chewy texture. These cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion.

With a Cup of Tea

• Pair your cookies with a warm cup of herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to sandwich your favorite ice cream flavor. The contrast between warm cookies and cold ice cream is delightful.

Crumbled on Yogurt

• Crumble your cookies over a bowl of yogurt for a sweet and crunchy breakfast or snack option.

Gift Packaging

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags as homemade gifts for friends and family during the holidays.

As Party Favors

• Serve them at gatherings as party favors, wrapped in cellophane and tied with ribbons for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Perfecting your maple brown sugar cookies takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve cookie perfection:

• Chill the Dough: Always chill the cookie dough for at least 2 hours. This helps prevent spreading during baking and enhances flavor.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure that your butter and egg are at room temperature. This ensures better mixing and a smoother dough.

• Avoid Overmixing: When combining dry ingredients with wet, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Remove them from the oven when the edges are lightly browned but the centers still look soft.

• Store Properly: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh longer.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Pairing side dishes with maple brown sugar cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A medley of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses provides a savory contrast to the sugary treats.

3. Nut Mix
   A mix of almonds, cashews, and walnuts adds crunch and a satisfying bite alongside the soft cookies.

4. Vanilla Pudding
   Creamy vanilla pudding can be served as a dip or alongside the cookies for added indulgence.

5. Chocolate Fondue
   Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip pieces of cookie into rich, melted chocolate.

6. Coffee or Espresso
   A cup of rich coffee or espresso pairs perfectly with maple flavors, enhancing the overall taste experience.

7. Milkshake
   A creamy milkshake served alongside creates a nostalgic dessert combination that everyone loves.

8. Whipped Cream
   Serve a dollop of whipped cream on top or beside for an extra layer of sweetness that complements each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies can be tricky. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure delicious results.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the right texture. It helps solidify the butter, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag.
• Overbaking the cookies: Cookies continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven. Bake them until they are lightly browned on the edges but still soft in the center.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Make sure your ingredients, especially butter and egg, are at room temperature for better mixing and texture. Cold ingredients can cause a lumpy dough.
• Using stale baking soda: Old baking soda may not provide enough lift. Always check its freshness before using it in your recipes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (149°C) and heat cookies for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a plate for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I substitute other nuts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans if you prefer.

How do I make these cookies vegan?

You can replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg for a vegan version.

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

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

How long should I chill the cookie dough?

Chilling for at least 2 hours is recommended, but you can refrigerate it overnight if needed.

Can I add chocolate chips to my Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips would make a delicious addition to this sweet treat.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are irresistible with their chewy centers and crisp edges. They offer great versatility, allowing you to customize with nuts or chocolate chips as you like. Try this delightful recipe today and enjoy homemade goodness!