If you love the warm, comforting flavors of maple syrup and brown sugar, then these Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are perfect for you! These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with rich caramel-like notes from the brown sugar and real maple syrup. They’re perfect for autumn gatherings, cozy evenings with a cup of tea, or just whenever you need a sweet treat. Let’s get into how to make these irresistibly delicious cookies!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
- Instructions for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
- Baking Tips & Notes
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Maple Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
Instructions for Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and light brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Scoop the Dough
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop the dough and place it onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Maple Glaze (Optional)
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.
Baking Tips & Notes
- Use Pure Maple Syrup: For the best flavor, use pure maple syrup rather than pancake syrup, which can contain artificial flavors.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for a smooth, well-incorporated dough.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies are meant to be soft and chewy, so take them out of the oven when the edges are set but the centers still look a bit soft—they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Maple Pecan Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the dough for extra crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the maple.
- Cinnamon Maple Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I store Maple Brown Sugar Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before scooping and baking.
3. Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?
Yes, you can use dark brown sugar if you prefer a deeper, more molasses-like flavor. The cookies will be slightly richer in taste.
4. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking if you notice the cookies are spreading too much. This helps the butter firm up and prevents excess spreading.
These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are the ultimate comfort cookies, combining the sweet, rich flavors of brown sugar and maple syrup with a soft, chewy texture. They’re perfect for any time of year, but especially wonderful in the fall when those warm flavors are at their best. Whether you enjoy them plain or with a drizzle of maple glaze, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Give them a try, and enjoy every sweet bite!
Happy baking, and enjoy these deliciously cozy cookies!
