Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

With big flavor, crisp edges, mega chewy centers, and a delightful maple icing, these Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are a definite favorite. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply as an indulgent treat, they bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion. The standout quality of these cookies is their unique blend of maple and brown sugar that creates a rich flavor profile. Remember to chill the dough for at least 2 hours or prepare it the day before for best results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and dark brown sugar creates a rich and comforting taste.
• Chewy Texture: Enjoy the perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers that everyone loves.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for holiday cookie trays, dessert buffets, or just a sweet snack anytime.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip these up with ease.
• Decorative Icing: The maple icing adds an extra touch of sweetness and makes the cookies look irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smoother, having the right tools is essential. Below are some must-have tools that will help you create perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These make creaming butter and sugar much easier and ensure a smooth dough.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without making a mess in your kitchen.
• Baking sheets: Provide the perfect surface for your cookies to bake evenly.
• Parchment paper or silicone mats: Prevent sticking and simplify cleanup after baking.

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 together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set this mixture aside as you move on to the next steps.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Cream the unsalted butter and dark brown sugar together on medium speed until smooth—about 1–2 minutes.
2. Add in the egg and mix on high speed until combined—about 30 seconds. Scrape down sides if necessary.
3. Add pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract; beat on high speed until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Chill Dough

Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap:
– 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 out.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C):
1. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for best results.
2. Set aside while you form your cookie dough balls.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Roll cookie dough into balls using about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie:
– Place them on prepared baking sheets.

Step 7: Bake

Bake each batch in preheated oven:
– Allow cookies to bake for about 12–13 minutes until lightly browned around the edges while still soft in the center.

Step 8: Cool Cookies

After removing from oven:
1. If cookies appear puffy, gently bang the pan on counter to deflate slightly.
2. Cool cookies on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare Icing

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

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

How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Maple brown sugar cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging yourself, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that enhances the cookie’s flavors.

Crumbled Over Ice Cream

• For an extra special dessert, crumble the cookies over your favorite vanilla ice cream. The warm cookie pieces create a delicious contrast with the cold ice cream.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange maple brown sugar cookies on a dessert platter alongside other sweet treats like brownies and fruit tarts for an impressive display at parties.

Dipped in Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies by dipping them into your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The maple flavor complements both beverages wonderfully.

With Fresh Fruit Slices

• Serve cookies alongside slices of fresh fruit such as apples or pears. The natural sweetness and crunchiness of the fruit balance the rich taste of the cookies.

How to Perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

To ensure your maple brown sugar cookies come out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips.

• Chill the Dough: Always chill the dough for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture and preventing spreading during baking.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and egg are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better incorporation of ingredients.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method when measuring flour to avoid excess flour, which can lead to dry cookies.

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to wet. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.

• Bang the Pan: Lightly bang your baking sheet on the counter after removing it from the oven if your cookies look puffy. This creates lovely cracks and helps achieve the desired texture.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

These maple brown sugar cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing their flavor profile and making for an enjoyable meal or snack time.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: Include some mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory contrast to the sweet flavors.
3. Nut Mix: A combination of roasted almonds, walnuts, and pecans provides a crunchy texture that complements soft cookies.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a wholesome treat that pairs well with dessert.
5. Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate enhances chilly nights and pairs perfectly with the flavors of maple.
6. Savory Scones: Offer cheese or herb scones alongside for a delightful sweet-and-savory experience.
7. Mini Muffins: Serve mini muffins, such as blueberry or banana nut, as part of a cozy brunch spread.
8. Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea provides warmth and can be refreshing alongside sweet treats like cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your cookie game significantly. Here are some mistakes to keep an eye on:

• Not chilling the dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for chewy cookies. It helps solidify the fat, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
• Skipping the weighing of flour: Using too much flour can dry out your cookies. Always spoon and level your flour or use a kitchen scale for accuracy.
• Underbaking the cookies: Cookies might look soft when they come out of the oven. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet, so take them out when they are lightly browned at the edges.
• Using cold eggs: Cold eggs can cause uneven mixing. Always use eggs at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Ingredients like butter should be softened but not melted. Room-temperature butter creates a creamy texture that aerates well during mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store 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 baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze before icing.

Reheating Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet for about 30 seconds, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I ensure my Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are chewy?

To achieve chewiness, make sure not to overbake them. Remove them from the oven while they are still soft in the center.

Can I substitute maple syrup with something else?

Yes, you can use honey or agave syrup as alternatives, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.

How can I customize my Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or different nuts according to your preference for unique flavors.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them if you want them to last longer.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. With their chewy centers and crisp edges topped with maple icing, they promise satisfaction with every bite. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or enjoy them as is!