Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a cookie that perfectly balances rich sweetness with a hint of warm, cozy flavor, the Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe is your new best friend. These soft, chewy cookies boast the deep caramel notes of dark brown sugar and pure maple syrup, complemented by a luscious maple icing that’s just dreamy. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or an afternoon treat, this recipe is bound to become a heartfelt favorite that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and brings smiles all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just the right ingredients is the key to nailing this recipe. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s building the structure, adding the perfect sweetness, or enhancing those signature maple flavors that make these cookies truly unforgettable.

• 2 and 1/3 cups (292g) all-purpose flour: Provides the tender yet sturdy base that holds your cookie together perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Gives a gentle lift, resulting in soft, chewy bites without being cakey.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors beautifully.
• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 cup (200g) packed dark brown sugar: Brings deep caramel flavor and moisture to every bite.
• 1 large egg, at room temperature: Acts as the glue to bind the ingredients while contributing to the cookie’s tender crumb.
• 1/3 cup (113g/80ml) pure maple syrup: Infuses the dough with true maple goodness that shines through subtly.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, complementing the maple perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon maple extract: Intensifies the maple flavor, making every bite unmistakably luscious.
• 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans: Provides a delightful crunch and nutty contrast to the soft dough.
• 2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter (for icing): Creates a silky base for the maple icing.
• 1/3 cup (113g/80ml) pure maple syrup (for icing): The heart of the glaze, sweet with a hint of sophistication.
• 1 cup (112g) sifted confectioners’ sugar: Ensures the icing is smooth, glossy, and perfectly sweet.
• Pinch of salt (for icing): Balances the sweetness of the icing and brings out all the flavors.

How to Make Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures your leavening is evenly distributed so every cookie rises just right, giving you that gentle, chewy texture everyone loves.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Brown Sugar

Using a mixer, beat together the softened butter and packed dark brown sugar on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and creamy. This usually takes about 3 minutes and is essential for creating that soft, tender crumb your cookies will be known for.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg until fully combined, then add the pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract. Whip these together on high speed until the mixture is smooth and aromatic. These flavors form the soul of your cookie, so mixing well enhances every bite.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients, Add Pecans

Pour the dry mixture gradually into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed. Then gently fold in the chopped pecans, giving your cookies their signature crunch that contrasts so nicely with the soft dough.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days. This step solidifies the flavors and makes the dough easier to handle, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies that bake evenly.

Step 6: Prepare to Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. These help cookies bake evenly and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 7: Shape and Bake Cookies

Form the dough into 1.5 tablespoon-sized balls and place them 3 inches apart on the baking sheets. Bake for 12 to 13 minutes until the edges are lightly browned but the centers stay soft. This gives the cookies that tender, chewy texture with just the right amount of crunch on the outside.

Step 8: Cool and Make the Maple Icing

While the cookies cool, melt butter and maple syrup together over low heat. Remove from heat and whisk in sifted confectioners’ sugar and salt until smooth. Drizzle this luscious maple icing over the cooled cookies and let it set for about an hour — it’s the crowning glory of this recipe!

How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling a few extra chopped pecans on top before the icing sets elevates the presentation and adds a satisfying crunch. A dusting of cinnamon or a pinch of flaky sea salt can also add a wonderful contrast to the sweetness and make your cookies look irresistible.

Side Dishes

These cookies shine alongside a warm cup of coffee or a creamy latte. If you want to get more festive, serve them with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that will delight both kids and adults.

Creative Ways to Present

Place a stack of these beautiful Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe on a rustic wooden tray or a decorative plate lined with parchment paper. Wrapping bundles in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon makes for perfect homemade gifts or party favors that friends will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days and keep the icing nice and fresh. If you want to extend their life, keeping them refrigerated for up to a week works beautifully without losing texture or flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the un-iced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and add the fresh maple icing for the best results.

Reheating

To bring a cookie back to that just-baked softness, gently warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds. This small step revives the chewy texture and makes that maple aroma even more inviting.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular brown sugar for dark brown sugar?

Yes, you can, but using dark brown sugar adds a deeper molasses flavor that’s essential for the rich taste of this recipe. If you only have light brown sugar, your cookies will still be delicious but slightly less flavorful.

Is maple extract necessary if I’m already using maple syrup?

The maple extract really amplifies the maple flavor and makes it more pronounced. If you can’t find it, you can skip it, but your cookies might have a milder maple profile.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

With a good-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, you can try this recipe gluten-free. Just be mindful that texture might be a bit different as gluten contributes to the chewiness.

How do I prevent the icing from becoming too runny?

Make sure the butter and maple syrup are melted but not too hot before whisking in the confectioners’ sugar. Cooling slightly before mixing ensures the icing thickens to a wonderful drizzle consistency.

Can these cookies be made nut-free?

Absolutely! Simply omit the pecans or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds if you want that extra crunch and texture without the nuts.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the warmth and sweetness of a good cookie, and the Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe delivers on this with every bite. It’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a little moment of joy just for you. Don’t hesitate to try it out—you’ll be delighted by how those rich maple flavors come alive in such a simple, irresistible cookie.

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