Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

With big flavor and an irresistible chewy center, Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a holiday, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies will impress everyone who tries them. Their crisp edges and luscious maple icing set them apart from other cookie recipes, making them a favorite all year round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The rich taste of brown sugar combined with pure maple syrup creates a mouthwatering cookie that’s hard to resist.
• Chewy Centers: These cookies boast mega chewy centers that provide the perfect texture contrast to their crispy edges.
• Simple Ingredients: With common pantry items, whipping up these cookies is both easy and convenient.
• Great for Sharing: With 28-30 cookies per batch, they are perfect for sharing at gatherings or potlucks.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them with coffee in the morning or as an afternoon snack; they’ll fit any time of day.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Cookie scoop
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without messy spills.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, saving time and effort.
• Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy base for cookies to bake evenly without sticking.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for consistent baking results.

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: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set this mixture aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using either a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Cream the softened butter and dark brown sugar together on medium speed until smooth—this should take about 1-2 minutes.
2. Add the egg and beat on high until well combined—about 30 seconds should do it.
3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
4. Mix in maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract on high speed until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually pour your dry ingredients into your wet mixture:
1. Mix on low speed just until combined.
2. Fold in chopped pecans by beating on low speed until evenly distributed throughout the dough. Expect a creamy texture.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

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

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C):
– Line 2-3 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats—this ensures easy removal of cookies post-baking.

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Roll cookie dough into balls using about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie:
– A cookie scoop can be very handy here!

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

Bake each batch for about 12-13 minutes:
– Look for lightly browned edges while centers remain soft.

Step 8: Cool Down Your Cookies

Once out of the oven:
– If they look puffy, gently bang the pan on the counter to create cracks on top.
– Let cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them 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 and whisk in sifted confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
3. Taste test; add a pinch of salt if needed.

Drizzle icing over cooled cookies—allow it to set for approximately one hour before serving!

Enjoy these delightful Maple Brown Sugar Cookies fresh! They stay delicious covered at room temperature for up to one week!

How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Serving maple brown sugar cookies can elevate your dessert experience. These cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, whether at a gathering or for a cozy night in.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pairing these cookies with a hot cup of coffee enhances their flavor, making for a delightful afternoon treat.

As Dessert Sandwiches

• Create cookie sandwiches by spreading your favorite frosting or cream between two cookies. This makes for an extra indulgent dessert.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm maple brown sugar cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for a delicious contrast of textures and temperatures.

At Holiday Gatherings

• These cookies are perfect for holiday parties. Arrange them on a festive platter to impress your guests with their beautiful appearance and delicious taste.

With Fresh Fruit

• Complement the sweetness of the cookies with slices of fresh fruit like apples or pears. This adds freshness to your dessert spread.

How to Perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Perfecting maple brown sugar cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Chill the Dough: Always chill the dough for at least 2 hours. This step prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality maple syrup and butter for richer flavors that enhance the overall taste of the cookies.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level the flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dry results.

• Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies when they look soft in the center; they will continue to bake on the sheet as they cool.

• Experiment with Mix-ins: Try adding chocolate chips or dried fruits for different flavor profiles while keeping with the theme of maple sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Pairing side dishes with maple brown sugar cookies can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement these sweet treats perfectly.

1. Vanilla Yogurt: A scoop of creamy vanilla yogurt adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing their flavor profile.

2. Cheese Platter: Incorporate mild cheeses like brie or mascarpone that offer a creamy texture, balancing out the cookie’s chewy goodness.

3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides brightness and cuts through the richness of the cookies.

4. Nut Mix: A simple bowl of mixed nuts can bring crunch and saltiness, pairing well with the sweet flavors in these cookies.

5. Hot Cocoa: Serve warm cocoa topped with whipped cream for a cozy pairing that complements the maple flavor beautifully.

6. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over each cookie adds an extra layer of indulgence, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial for the right texture. If you skip this step, your cookies may spread too much while baking.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dense cookies. Always spoon and level your flour for accurate measurement.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Using stale ingredients: Old baking soda or expired maple syrup can affect flavor. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before starting.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can alter cookie quality. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• You can also freeze unbaked cookie dough. Roll into balls, freeze, then transfer to a bag.

Reheating Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Maple Brown Sugar Cookies that may help you.

How do I make my Maple Brown Sugar Cookies chewier?

To enhance chewiness, ensure you cream the butter and sugar properly and avoid overbaking them.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work well as alternatives if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How long do Maple Brown Sugar Cookies last?

These cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to one week.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too hard after chilling?

Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling and baking, as it will soften slightly.

Can I customize my Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?

Yes! Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or spices like cinnamon for different flavors.

Final Thoughts

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. With their big flavor and chewy centers, they are perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different mix-ins or icings to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe!