Sweet Maple Bliss: Maple Brown Sugar Cookies (Irresistible Cookies with Maple Icing)

Ah, the enchanting aroma of baking cookies wafting through your kitchen! These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are a delightful symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to a cozy autumn afternoon. With their crisp edges, mega chewy centers, and a luscious maple icing drizzled on top, each bite is like a warm hug for your taste buds. Perfect for sharing with friends (or keeping all to yourself!), these cookies are a celebration of sweet nostalgia and comfort.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for these cookies! Here’s why they’ll be your new favorite:

– Big, Bold Flavors: The rich combination of brown sugar and maple syrup creates a flavor explosion that’s utterly irresistible.
– Crispy Meets Chewy: Enjoy the sensational contrast of crispy edges with a chewy center—just how a cookie should be!
– Fun and Festive: Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a cozy night in, they’ll bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
– Make-Ahead Magic: The dough can be prepared in advance, making it an effortless treat to whip up whenever the craving strikes.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the key to cookie success! With just a handful of simple elements, you’ll create something truly spectacular. One flavor game-changer in this recipe is the pure maple syrup, which infuses the cookies with that delightful, earthy sweetness. The packed dark brown sugar adds a depth of flavor that will keep everyone guessing your secret ingredient!

Main 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

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

The best part about these Maple Brown Sugar Cookies is how customizable they can be! Here are some fun twists to make them your own:

– Go Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful twist that everyone can enjoy.
– Add Extra Protein: Mix in some protein powder or oat flour for an energizing boost.
– Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice that complements the maple beautifully.
– Swap the Nuts: Don’t have pecans? Try walnuts or even chocolate chips for a decadent touch.
– Add a Crunch: Mix in crushed toffee bits or sprinkles for a fun textural contrast and a pop of color!

How to Make Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Ready to dive into cookie magic? Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a batch of Maple Brown Sugar Cookies ready to impress!

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set this dry mixture aside for later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to cream the softened butter and packed dark brown sugar on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. Add in the egg and beat on high until fully combined, about 30 seconds. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to capture all that buttery goodness!

Step 3: Add the Maple Goodness

Pour in the pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract, then beat on high speed until everything is mixed together into a luscious, creamy mixture.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. You’ll have a soft and creamy cookie dough ready for chilling!

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. If you’re planning to chill it longer than a few hours, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling and baking—trust me, it makes all the difference!

Step 6: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line 2-3 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats (totally recommended for cookies!).

Step 7: Form the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop, roll the chilled dough into balls, about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each ball.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 12-13 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned, while the centers remain soft and slightly puffy.

Step 9: Cool and Icing Time

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven. If they appear puffy, give the baking sheet a gentle bang on the counter to help them settle and create those lovely cracks. Let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Drizzle Maple Icing

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and 1/3 cup of maple syrup together, whisking occasionally. Once melted, remove from heat and whisk in the sifted confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Taste, and if desired, add a pinch of salt. Drizzle this divine icing over your cooled cookies, letting it set for about an hour.

Pro Tips for Making Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

– Chill Your Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step—this is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture!
– Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This allows the butter and sugar to blend seamlessly and creates a fluffy dough.
– Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies to ensure they’re perfectly golden.
– Icing Consistency: If your icing is too thick, add a drop of maple syrup or water until you reach the desired drizzling consistency.

How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Garnishes

For a touch of flair, sprinkle some extra chopped pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar over the iced cookies.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a piping hot cup of coffee, a steaming mug of cocoa, or a refreshing glass of milk for the ultimate treat experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your cookies on a colorful platter or stack them in a cute cookie jar for a charming display. They also make fabulous gifts when wrapped in festive cellophane with a ribbon!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Trust me, they won’t last long!

Freezing

These cookies can be frozen! Freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To enjoy your frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. Voila! A warm and gooey cookie experience awaits.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pecans or have a nut allergy, feel free to swap for chocolate chips or leave them out entirely.

How do I make this gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously chewy cookie that everyone can enjoy.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes! You can chill the dough for up to 3 days, or freeze it before baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature before rolling.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all! These cookies are sweet and have hints of warmth from the maple and brown sugar, but they’re not spicy.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the secret to these scrumptious Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bake up some magic! They’ll fill your home with the sweetest aroma and bring joy to anyone lucky enough to enjoy them. So gather those ingredients, channel your inner baker, and get ready for a delightful treat that’s bound to be a favorite in your household. Happy baking! 🍪✨