These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. With their rich maple flavor, crisp edges, and chewy centers, they will quickly become a favorite in your household. The addition of crunchy pecans adds a delightful texture, making each bite unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a personal treat, these cookies are sure to impress your friends and family. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time, making them an easy choice for busy bakers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Big Maple Flavor: The combination of pure maple syrup and maple extract gives these cookies an irresistible taste.
- Perfect Texture: Enjoy the contrast between crisp edges and mega chewy centers that make every bite satisfying.
- Nutty Crunch: Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the cookie.
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create delicious results.
- Make Ahead: The dough can be chilled for up to three days, allowing you to prepare it when convenient.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your baking adventure with these maple brown sugar cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and ensure success.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer
- Medium mixing bowl
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer: These tools make it easy to cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Baking sheets: Using quality baking sheets ensures even baking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.
Ingredients
With big maple flavor, crisp edges, mega chewy centers, and crunchy pecans, 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. This recipe is also in my New York Times best-selling cookbook, Sally’s Baking 101.
Ingredients:
– 2 and 1/3 cups (292g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 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 (113g/80ml) pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon maple extract
– 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans
– 2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
– 1/3 cup (113g/80ml) pure maple syrup
– 1 cup (112g) sifted confectioners’ sugar
– pinch of salt, to taste
How to Make Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you move on to the wet ingredients.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl using a handheld mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Beat the softened butter and dark brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and creamy, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the egg and mix on high speed for about 30 seconds until combined.
3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Add the pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract; beat until combined for about another minute.
5. Gradually pour in the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined.
6. Fold in chopped pecans gently using a spatula.
Step 3: Chill Dough
Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it into an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least two hours or up to three days before baking.
Step 4: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
If your dough has chilled longer than three hours:
1. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
2. Scoop out approximately 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie and roll them into balls.
3. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheets spaced three inches apart.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 12–13 minutes or until cookie edges are lightly browned but centers look soft.
Step 7: Cool & Drizzle
Let cookies cool on baking sheets for five minutes before transferring them to cooling racks. In a small saucepan over low heat:
1. Melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter with one-third cup of pure maple syrup while whisking occasionally.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and mix in sifted confectioners’ sugar along with a pinch of salt.
3. Taste your drizzle mixture; adjust sweetness if necessary before drizzling over cooled cookies.
These delectable Maple Brown Sugar Cookies will be ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to one week. Happy baking!
How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
These delicious maple brown sugar cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, there are countless ways to enjoy them.
With a Glass of Milk
- Classic pairing: The rich flavors of the cookies blend beautifully with cold milk.
- Chocolate milk: For a twist, try serving with chocolate milk for an indulgent treat.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Creamy delight: Use your favorite ice cream to create delightful ice cream sandwiches.
- Customizable flavors: Experiment with different ice cream flavors like vanilla, caramel, or even maple!
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Light and airy: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a light finish.
- Seasonal touches: Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg on the whipped cream for extra flavor.
As Party Favors
- Gift-ready: Package cookies in decorative bags for guests to take home.
- Personal touch: Include a note about the recipe or your favorite ways to enjoy them.
With Coffee
- Perfect match: Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee for a cozy snack.
- Flavor profile: The coffee’s bitterness complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
How to Perfect Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
For the best results when making maple brown sugar cookies, follow these handy tips.
- Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 2 hours enhances flavors and helps achieve a better texture.
- Measure accurately: Spoon and level flour properly; too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
- Don’t overbake: Remove cookies from the oven when they are still soft in the center; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Use quality ingredients: Opt for high-quality maple syrup and butter to elevate flavor.
- Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruit for added texture and flavor variety.
Best Side Dishes for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your maple brown sugar cookies can make your dessert experience even better. Here are some great options to consider.
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses pairs well, especially creamy Brie or sharp cheddar.
- Spiced Nuts – Roasted spiced nuts offer a crunchy contrast that complements the chewy cookie texture.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome accompaniment.
- Hot Cocoa – A warm mug of rich hot cocoa creates a comforting combination with the cookies.
- Pecan Pie Bars – For a sweet tooth, serve these bars made with pecans that echo flavors in the cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking maple brown sugar cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Not chilling the dough: Failing to chill the cookie dough can lead to overly flat cookies. Always refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Incorrectly measuring flour: Using too much flour can make your cookies dry. Spoon and level the flour for accuracy.
- Skipping the pecans: Omitting the pecans will change the texture and flavor. Include them for that delightful crunch.
- Overbaking cookies: Baking too long can result in hard cookies. Remove them when edges are set but centers are soft.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can create a dense cookie. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
- Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, flipping occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about maple brown sugar cookies that might help you out.
How do I make maple brown sugar cookies chewier?
To enhance chewiness, ensure you don’t overmix the dough and slightly underbake the cookies.
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark?
Yes, light brown sugar works but may result in a milder flavor compared to dark brown sugar.
What is the best way to store maple brown sugar cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for freshness.
Can I substitute other nuts for pecans in this recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives if you prefer something different.
Are maple brown sugar cookies gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can substitute with gluten-free flour blends if needed.
Final Thoughts
Maple brown sugar cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! Their rich flavor and chewy texture make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with different nuts or add-ins like chocolate chips. Give these a try, and enjoy their cozy warmth!
Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
Indulge in the delightful warmth of Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, a perfect blend of rich maple flavor and nutty pecans. These cookies boast crispy edges and chewy centers, creating a heavenly texture that will enchant your taste buds. Ideal for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations, these cookies can be easily prepared ahead of time, making them a go-to treat for busy bakers. With just the right amount of sweetness and nutty crunch, you’ll want to share these irresistible delights with friends and family—or keep them all to yourself!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–13 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 and 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon maple extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup sifted confectioners’ sugar
- pinch of salt, to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream softened butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and mix well.
- Mix in pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract until combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture; fold in chopped pecans.
- Chill the dough for at least 2 hours (or up to 3 days) before baking.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop dough into balls and place on prepared sheets, spacing them apart.
- Bake for 12–13 minutes or until edges are lightly browned; let cool.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
