Maple Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe
If you love cookies that feel like a warm hug on a chilly day, then you are absolutely going to adore these Maple Brown Sugar Cookies. They combine the rich, caramel-like depth of brown sugar with the smooth, natural sweetness of pure maple syrup, creating a cookie that’s soft, tender, and bursting with cozy fall flavors. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a weekend treat, or just to fill your home with the most inviting aroma, these cookies deliver that perfect balance of sweetness and spice that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, glazing them with a maple-infused icing adds an irresistible finish that makes these Maple Brown Sugar Cookies truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients is the start of every great batch of cookies, and this recipe is no exception. Each item plays a crucial role, from the butter adding richness to the cinnamon lending a warm, aromatic note that complements the maple syrup perfectly.
- Unsalted butter, 1 cup softened: Gives the cookies a moist and tender texture without overpowering sweetness.
- Brown sugar, 1 cup packed: Provides deep, molasses-like sweetness and helps keep the cookies chewy.
- Pure maple syrup, 1/4 cup: Infuses a unique natural sweetness and a subtle woodsy flavor unique to these cookies.
- Large egg, 1: Binds everything together and contributes to a soft cookie crumb.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Enhances all flavors with a classic warm note.
- All-purpose flour, 2 1/2 cups: The base that holds these cookies together with just the right density.
- Baking soda, 1 teaspoon: Helps the cookies rise and achieve that perfect tender crumb.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon: Adds a cozy spice that pairs wonderfully with the maple and brown sugar.
- Powdered sugar, 1 cup: Essential for the smooth glaze that tops the cookies.
- Pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons (for glaze): Makes the glaze lush and intensely maple-flavored.
- Milk, 1-2 tablespoons: Used to thin the glaze to just the right consistency for drizzling.
- Optional cinnamon for garnish: A sprinkle adds an eye-catching and flavorful finishing touch.
How to Make Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to ensure the cookies won’t stick and cleanup will be a breeze. This sets the stage for perfect cookies that bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a spacious mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture turns pale and fluffy, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key because it incorporates air, making your cookies delightfully light. Then add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until smooth and well combined—the aroma here is already hinting at the deliciousness to come!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, using the mixer on low speed. This gentle mixing keeps the dough tender by avoiding overworking the gluten. The cinnamon lends a seasonal spice that elevates the flavor of these Maple Brown Sugar Cookies to something truly special.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, roll the dough into roughly 1 1/2-inch balls. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheets with about 2 inches of space between each ball to allow for spreading. Press down each ball slightly with the palm of your hand to flatten—this mimics that classic cookie shape and helps them bake evenly.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges have just turned a golden color and the centers appear set but still soft. Remember, the goal is a chewy, tender bite rather than crunchy. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes right on the baking sheet before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents any breakage and helps them firm up just right.
Step 6: Prepare the Maple Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, and enough milk to make a smooth, somewhat pourable glaze. Drizzle this luscious topping over the cooled cookies. If you like, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon over the top for a finishing touch that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
Garnishes
The simple glaze with a sprinkle of cinnamon transforms these cookies into a beautiful treat that’s ready for company but also perfect for satisfying your own sweet tooth. For an extra touch, try a light dusting of finely chopped toasted pecans or a small pinch of flaky sea salt to highlight the maple’s complexity.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm beverage like coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk for a nostalgic twist. They also make a lovely accompaniment to a soft whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream when you want to turn your cookie break into a mini dessert extravaganza.
Creative Ways to Present
Line a rustic wooden board with parchment paper and arrange the Maple Brown Sugar Cookies alongside a small jar of maple syrup for dipping or drizzling at the table. You could wrap a few cookies in cellophane tied with twine as charming homemade gifts. Serving the cookies with fresh fruit, like sliced apples or pears, adds a refreshing contrast and festive flair to your presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Maple Brown Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Keeping them sealed maintains their softness and freshness, ensuring you get to enjoy that tender crumb even a few days later.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully—just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven to refresh that just-baked sensation.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth, pop the cookies in a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. The glaze might soften slightly but that’s part of the charm. Just be careful not to overheat, as you want to preserve the soft texture and rich maple flavor.
FAQs
Can I use light or dark brown sugar instead of packed brown sugar?
Absolutely! Light brown sugar will give a milder molasses flavor, while dark brown sugar packs a more intense, richer taste. Either choice will work well in your Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, just expect subtle differences in flavor depth.
Is pure maple syrup necessary, or can I use pancake syrup instead?
Pure maple syrup is strongly recommended because it has a distinct, natural flavor that pancake syrup lacks. Using pure maple syrup makes a noticeable difference in the authenticity and complexity of your cookie’s taste.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be mindful that texture may vary slightly, so it’s best to use a blend that includes xanthan gum or another binder.
Why do the cookies need to be gently flattened before baking?
Flattening each dough ball ensures the cookies bake evenly and achieve that classic chewy, soft texture. Without this step, they may bake thicker and take longer to cook through.
How long does the glaze stay fresh on the cookies?
The glaze sets in about 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature and remains fresh for a couple of days. If storing cookies longer, keep them in an airtight container to protect the glaze from becoming sticky or settling unevenly.
Final Thoughts
These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies might just become your next favorite homemade treat, offering a delightful mix of tender texture, warm spices, and that unmistakable maple sweetness. Baking them is a joy, and sharing them is even better. So go ahead, make a batch and let these cookies add a little comfort and a lot of happiness to your day.
Print
Maple Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully soft and chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies featuring a rich blend of brown sugar and pure maple syrup, topped with a smooth maple glaze for a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. These cookies are easy to make and perfect for cozy treats or sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Maple Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (for consistency)
- Optional: a sprinkle of cinnamon for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing again until smooth and well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed to avoid overmixing, which ensures tender and soft cookies.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, roll the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball with your palm to create a flat surface for even baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, until the edges become golden and the centers are set. Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft texture. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare the Maple Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Glaze and Garnish: Drizzle the maple glaze over the cooled cookies. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these sweet maple brown sugar cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
Notes
- Use softened butter to help cream easily and achieve the right texture.
- Do not overmix the dough after adding flour to keep cookies tender.
- Adjust milk quantity in glaze to get your preferred consistency.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk in the glaze.
- Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top enhances the warm flavor notes of the cookie.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: maple cookies, brown sugar cookies, soft cookies, maple syrup dessert, baking, sweet treats, fall cookies
