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Transform simple ingredients into irresistibly soft and chewy maple brown sugar cookies that combine rich molasses notes with pure maple sweetness. These cookies feature a perfect balance of crispy edges and tender centers, crowned with a glossy maple glaze that takes them from delicious to extraordinary.
Complete Ingredients List
For the Cookies:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup salted butter, room temperature
- 1½ cups dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon maple extract
- 1 cup pecan pieces
For the Maple Glaze:
- ¼ cup salted butter
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- Pinch of salt (if using unsalted butter)
Creating Cookie Magic
- Prepare The Base
- Whisk together flour and baking soda in a medium bowl until well combined. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and brown sugar for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy, scraping bowl as needed.
- Add Wet Ingredients
- Beat in egg until fully incorporated. Add maple syrup and maple extract, mixing until completely combined. Scrape bowl to ensure even mixing.
- Combine Mixtures
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Fold in pecan pieces by hand until evenly distributed.
- Shape The Cookies
- Drop rounded 1½ tablespoon portions of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing 2-3 inches apart. For best presentation, roll into neat balls.
- Chill With Care
- Refrigerate dough balls for a minimum of 2 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for proper texture and shape.
- Perfect The Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake chilled cookies for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft. For crackled effect, gently tap pan on counter after baking.
- Create The Glaze
- Heat butter and maple syrup in a small saucepan until butter melts completely. Remove from heat and gradually whisk in powdered sugar until smooth and glossy. Drizzle over completely cooled cookies.
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Serving Suggestions
Transform these cookies into an elegant presentation by creating a maple-themed dessert display. Arrange cookies on vintage cake stands at varying heights, garnished with maple leaves and candied pecans. Serve alongside maple lattes or spiced apple cider for fall gatherings. Consider offering both glazed and unglazed options, with warm maple syrup for dipping. Create gift packages with cookies layered between waxed paper in beautiful tins, perfect for holiday giving or hostess gifts.
Creative Variations
Elevate these versatile cookies by experimenting with different additions and variations. Try adding cinnamon chips or toffee bits to the dough for extra flavor complexity. Create sandwich cookies by spreading maple buttercream between two cookies. Add warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a fall twist, or incorporate chopped bacon for a sweet-savory combination. Consider dipping half of each cookie in dark chocolate after glazing, or sprinkle with sea salt before the glaze sets.
Storage Solutions
Maintain the perfect texture of your cookies by storing them properly in airtight containers with parchment paper between layers. At room temperature, they'll stay fresh and chewy for 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze unglazed cookies for up to three months - wrap well in plastic wrap, then foil, before placing in freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before glazing. For gifting, layer cookies between waxed paper in decorative tins.
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Conclusion
These maple brown sugar cookies have become my signature contribution to fall gatherings and holiday cookie exchanges. While the process requires attention to detail, the joy of sharing these perfectly chewy, maple-infused treats makes every careful step worthwhile. Remember, the secret to exceptional cookies lies not just in the ingredients but in the love and patience you put into making them. From my kitchen to yours, I hope these cookies bring as much happiness to your gatherings as they have to mine.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark?
- Yes, but dark brown sugar adds deeper flavor and moisture.
- → Can I skip the chilling step?
- No, chilling is essential to prevent spreading and ensure proper texture.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- → Can I freeze these cookies?
- Yes, freeze baked cookies or dough balls for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
- → What can I substitute for pecans?
- Try walnuts, almonds, or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version.