Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

With big flavor, crisp edges, mega chewy centers, and a delightful maple icing, these Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just want a sweet treat at home, these cookies will impress everyone. Their unique combination of flavors and textures makes them a favorite among cookie lovers everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The rich taste of maple syrup combined with brown sugar creates a mouthwatering cookie experience.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy the contrast of crisp edges and chewy centers that keep you coming back for more.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even beginner bakers can whip these up.
• Versatile Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or chocolate chips to make each batch uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having the right equipment makes 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
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your dry and wet ingredients effectively.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies, ensuring they bake uniformly.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Makes cleanup easy and prevents cookies from sticking.

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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 stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
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 thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Chill Dough

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

Step 5: Preheat Oven

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

Roll cookie dough into balls about the size of 1.5 tablespoons each:
* Bake each batch for approximately 12-13 minutes until lightly browned at the sides. The centers will appear very soft.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

Remove from oven:
* If cookies look puffy, lightly bang the pan on the counter upon removing it from the oven to create cracks.
* Cool cookies on baking sheets for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare Maple Icing

In a small saucepan over low heat:
1. Melt together butter and maple syrup while whisking occasionally.
2. Once melted, remove from heat; whisk in sifted confectioners’ sugar.
3. Taste test; add a pinch of salt if desired before drizzling over cooled cookies.

Step 9: Storage

Store cookies covered at room temperature for up to one week. Enjoy your delicious homemade Maple Brown Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Maple brown sugar cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be elevated with some creative serving ideas. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that never fails. The creaminess of milk complements the sweetness of the cookies.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Take two cookies and add a scoop of your favorite ice cream in between. This creates a deliciously chewy and creamy treat.

Drizzled with Extra Maple Syrup

• For those who love maple flavor, drizzle some additional maple syrup over the cookies for an extra sweet touch.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. The flavors harmonize beautifully, making for a perfect afternoon snack.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an indulgent dessert. It adds a light and fluffy texture that contrasts well with the chewy cookie.

How to Perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

To achieve the ultimate maple brown sugar cookies, follow these expert tips that ensure every batch is perfectly baked.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth dough and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing develops gluten which can lead to chewier textures.
• Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be lightly browned around the edges but soft in the center when done.
• Cool Properly: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set without becoming too hard.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

While these cookies shine on their own, pairing them with some delightful side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy contrast that pairs nicely with cookie flavors.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese which complement sweet desserts while adding savory notes.
4. Nuts and Dried Fruits: A small bowl of mixed nuts and dried fruits offers crunchiness and natural sweetness alongside soft cookies.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Dip cookie pieces into warm chocolate fondue for an indulgent treat that combines textures beautifully.
6. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your cookies or serve it as a dip for extra decadence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes while baking, especially with cookies. Here are some common pitfalls and how you can avoid them.

• Boldly skipping the chilling step – Chilling the dough is essential for cookie texture. It helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor. Always chill for at least 2 hours.
• Boldly ignoring ingredient temperatures – Using cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Ensure that your butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature for the best results.
• Boldly overmixing the dough – Overmixing can create tough cookies. Mix just until combined to maintain a tender texture.
• Boldly eyeballing measurements – Baking is science! Use precise measurements for flour and sugar, especially when making maple brown sugar cookies, to achieve the perfect balance.
• Boldly using stale ingredients – Freshness matters! Check your baking soda and flour for expiration dates before starting. Fresh ingredients yield better flavors.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Freeze unbaked dough balls wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
• Baked cookies can be frozen in a single layer, then transferred to a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (177°C), place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat each cookie on low power for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baking can raise many questions, especially when trying out new recipes. Here are some common queries regarding maple brown sugar cookies.

How do I make my Maple Brown Sugar Cookies chewier?

To enhance chewiness, ensure you use dark brown sugar as it retains moisture better than lighter sugars.

Can I substitute pecans in the Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?

Yes! Feel free to use walnuts or omit nuts altogether if preferred.

How long do Maple Brown Sugar Cookies last?

These cookies stay fresh at room temperature for up to one week when stored properly.

Can I freeze unbaked Maple Brown Sugar Cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough balls and bake them fresh whenever you’re ready.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies boast delightful flavors with a chewy texture that everyone will love. They are perfect as is but also allow customization with various nuts or spices. Try this recipe today for a sweet treat that’s sure to impress!