Are you craving a soft, chewy cookie bursting with cozy flavors? These maple brown sugar cookies are the perfect treat, combining the rich warmth of brown sugar with the deep, authentic taste of pure maple syrup. With a subtle hint of cinnamon, these cookies are irresistibly tender, beautifully glazed, and a comforting treat perfect for any season. Here’s a complete, step-by-step guide to crafting these delicious cookies that’ll become a fast favorite in your baking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
Softened butter gives these cookies a rich, creamy base and helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture. - 1 cup packed brown sugar
Brown sugar imparts a deep molasses flavor and keeps the cookies soft. - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
Pure maple syrup provides an unmistakable depth that only real syrup can offer. - 1 large egg
Adds moisture and structure, ensuring these cookies stay soft and chewy. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Enhances the overall flavor profile. - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Provides structure while keeping the cookies light. - 1 teaspoon baking soda
Baking soda allows the cookies to spread evenly and enhances their texture. - 1/2 teaspoon salt
Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors. - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Complements the maple and brown sugar flavors beautifully.
For the Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Creates a smooth, sweet glaze that hardens perfectly. - 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Adds flavor and smoothness to the glaze. - 1-2 tablespoons milk
Adjusts the consistency of the glaze for easy drizzling. - Optional: A sprinkle of cinnamon for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
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, which help prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar. Beat for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender, chewy texture, as creaming incorporates air into the dough. Next, add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat again until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Take care not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough. Blend until the ingredients are just combined, and you have a soft, pliable dough.
4. Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls for uniform size. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand to create a flat surface. This ensures an even bake and gives the cookies a classic shape.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Look for edges that are just starting to turn golden, while the centers remain soft. Be cautious not to overbake—these cookies are best when slightly undercooked to retain their soft, chewy texture. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
The Finishing Touch: Maple Glaze
1. Prepare the Maple Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and 1-2 tablespoons of milk. Adjust the milk amount to reach a smooth, pourable consistency that will drizzle easily over the cookies. If desired, add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the glaze for extra flavor and a touch of visual appeal.
2. Glaze the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle the maple glaze generously over each cookie. Allow a few minutes for the glaze to set before serving. This glaze adds a beautiful sheen and enhances the cookie’s maple flavor.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
- Use Pure Maple Syrup
When it comes to flavor, real maple syrup makes a difference. Its deep, caramel-like sweetness perfectly complements the brown sugar and cinnamon. - Watch the Bake Time Closely
These cookies are best when slightly underbaked. Keeping an eye on the edges (looking for a light golden color) while leaving the centers soft is the key to achieving the perfect chewiness. - Storing the Cookies
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container. The cookies will absorb the moisture from the bread, staying tender for days. - Freezing for Later
These cookies freeze beautifully! Store unglazed cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature, then glaze once they’re fully thawed for a fresh taste.
Serving Suggestions
Maple brown sugar cookies pair perfectly with a hot beverage, like coffee or chai tea. Their warm, rich flavor makes them an ideal holiday treat, but they’re also great for any time you want a cozy, comforting cookie. Serve them fresh for the best texture, as the glaze will harden slightly as they sit.
Nutrition Information
Each cookie contains approximately 150 calories, making them a delightful, indulgent treat in moderation. Here’s a breakdown of the basic nutrition facts per serving:
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 1g
Why These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies Stand Out
These cookies offer a harmonious blend of sweetness and warmth with a deliciously soft, chewy texture. The pure maple syrup and brown sugar work together to create a depth of flavor that makes these cookies truly special. Topped with a smooth maple glaze, each bite is full of comforting flavors that linger, making them the perfect cookie for any maple lover.
Enjoy baking and sharing these cozy maple brown sugar cookies with family and friends. They’ll surely become a go-to recipe, bringing warmth and sweetness to any gathering!