Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

If you’re a fan of soft, chewy cookies with a rich, caramel-like flavor, then maple brown sugar cookies will be right up your alley. This treat combines the deep sweetness of brown sugar with the warm, earthy taste of pure maple syrup, perfect for cozy fall days or holiday gatherings. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn how to make these delightful cookies from scratch, along with tips, tricks, and everything you need to make the best maple brown sugar cookies ever.

What Makes Maple Brown Sugar Cookies So Special?

Maple brown sugar cookies bring a unique twist to classic cookie recipes, infusing each bite with the nostalgic flavors of maple and brown sugar. They’re not only simple to make but also versatile for various occasions, from holiday baking to casual snacking. The secret lies in the quality ingredients—using pure maple syrup adds a depth of flavor that can’t be beat.

Why You’ll Love These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Maple brown sugar cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies. Here are a few reasons why they’re a must-try:

• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, these cookies come together in just under 30 minutes!
• Unique Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and maple syrup gives these cookies a complex, warm sweetness that’s perfect for fall.
• Soft & Chewy Texture: These cookies bake up soft and chewy, thanks to the brown sugar and the gentle mixing process.
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrapped up in a festive bag, these cookies make a wonderful gift for friends, family, or colleagues.

Ingredients for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Before diving into the baking process, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need. Having all ingredients measured and prepared in advance will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter – Softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1 cup brown sugar – Packed to give a deep, caramel flavor and chewy texture.
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup – Choose the real deal for that authentic maple taste.
• 1 large egg – Helps bind ingredients and add richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base of your cookie dough.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a hint of warmth that complements the maple flavor.

For the Maple Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar – Creates a sweet, smooth glaze.
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup – Enhances the maple taste in the glaze.
• 1-2 tablespoons milk – Adjust to reach your desired consistency.
• Optional: a sprinkle of cinnamon – For an extra touch of warmth.

Step-by-Step Directions for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

These instructions will guide you through the process of making soft, chewy cookies with a perfect maple glaze. Follow each step for the best results.

1. Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This ensures the cookies don’t stick and allows for even baking.

2. Cream Butter and Brown Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and packed brown sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract, and beat until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed. Be careful not to overmix—just combine until smooth to avoid tough cookies.

4. Shape and Flatten the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, roll the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches between each ball. Gently flatten each dough ball with the palm of your hand to ensure a flat surface for even baking.

5. Bake the Cookies

Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set. Avoid overbaking, as the cookies continue to firm up as they cool. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

6. Prepare the Maple Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, and milk until smooth. The consistency should be pourable yet thick enough to coat the cookies. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies, adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top if desired.

7. Serve and Enjoy!

Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. Pair these delicious cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for an ideal fall or holiday treat.

Notes and Expert Tips

To ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips:

• Use Pure Maple Syrup: The flavor difference is noticeable. Avoid using imitation syrups, as they lack the depth and richness of pure maple syrup.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
• Chill the Dough if Needed: If your dough feels too soft, pop it in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much.

Variations and Additions

Looking to put your spin on these maple brown sugar cookies? Here are some creative ideas:

• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch and pair well with maple.
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Roll the dough balls in a cinnamon-sugar mix before baking for a crisp, slightly spiced exterior.
• Chocolate Chips: A handful of white or dark chocolate chips adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Maple Buttercream Filling: Turn these into sandwich cookies by filling them with a maple-flavored buttercream for an extra indulgent treat.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

While these maple brown sugar cookies are a treat, they also have some nutritional perks thanks to ingredients like maple syrup, which is rich in antioxidants and minerals. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile per cookie.

Nutrition Details

• Serving: 1 cookie
• Calories: 150
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 70mg
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 13g
• Vitamin A: 200IU
• Calcium: 20mg
• Iron: 0.5mg

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging in a cozy day at home, maple brown sugar cookies are a wonderful choice. Their rich, deep flavors make them a standout treat, and the maple glaze adds a touch of elegance. With this easy-to-follow recipe, tips, and frequently asked questions, you’ll be ready to bake up a batch of these delightful cookies and share them with friends and family.

More Relevant Recipes

• Chewy Brown Butter Maple Pumpkin Cookies
• Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Maple Glaze
• Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies

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