Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These cookies combine the rich flavor of pure maple syrup with the nutty essence of brown butter, making them irresistibly soft and chewy. Ideal for fall baking or as a sweet addition to holiday gatherings, these cookies will surely impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and brown butter creates a unique taste that is both comforting and sophisticated.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious cookies.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for cookie platters, holiday gifts, or just a cozy night in with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Chilling the dough ensures thick, tender cookies that maintain their softness long after baking.
• Customizable Toppings: Finish off with flaky sea salt or toasted pecans for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on these Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Light-colored saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve the perfect light and fluffy texture when creaming butter and sugar.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for mixing dry ingredients separately before combining them with wet ingredients.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to baking sheets, ensuring easy removal and cleanup.

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Ingredients

What You’ll Need: Ingredients. Pantry staples meet premium pure maple syrup and nutty brown butter for extra depth and chew. Chill time ensures thick, tender cookies with concentrated maple flavor.

For the Cookies

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (Grade A Dark recommended)
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Brown Butter Icing

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (to brown)
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1–2 Tbsp milk or cream (as needed for consistency)
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• Flaky sea salt or chopped toasted pecans (for sprinkling)

How to Make Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, fine sea salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined; set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl (using a stand mixer with paddle attachment or hand mixer), beat the softened butter and packed brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add in the pure maple syrup and mix until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Beat in the large egg and pure vanilla extract just until combined. On low speed, gradually add in the dry ingredients from step one. Mix only until no flour streaks remain; the dough will be soft.

Step 4: Chill Dough

Cover the dough tightly in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 3 days) to prevent excess spread while baking and deepen the maple flavor.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie ball, spacing them about 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden while centers appear just set. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring cookies to a wire rack.

Step 7: Make Brown Butter Icing

In a light-colored saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Cook while swirling occasionally until foamy with brown bits forming at the bottom—this should create a nutty aroma. Immediately pour into a heatproof bowl to stop cooking. Whisk in sifted powdered sugar, additional maple syrup, and optional ground cinnamon. Gradually add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach a thick but pourable icing consistency.

Step 8: Ice Cookies

Dip or drizzle cooled cookies with icing. While still wet from icing, sprinkle flaky sea salt or chopped toasted pecans on top for added texture. Allow icing to set for about 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy these Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing as an indulgent treat that brings warmth to any gathering!

How to Serve Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

These soft maple cookies with brown butter icing are not just a treat; they can be served in a variety of ways to enhance your experience. Whether for a cozy gathering or as an afternoon snack, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that complements the rich maple flavor and brown butter icing perfectly.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter alongside other treats like brownies or fruit tarts for an inviting dessert spread at parties.

Crumbled Over Ice Cream

• Crumble the cookies over vanilla or maple ice cream to create a delicious sundae. Drizzle with extra maple syrup for added sweetness.

As Favors for Guests

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with twine as sweet take-home favors for guests at events like weddings or baby showers.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea. The warm beverage will enhance the cookie’s flavors, making for a comforting treat.

How to Perfect Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

To ensure your soft maple cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips. These simple steps can elevate your baking game!

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least one hour to prevent excessive spreading while baking and intensify the maple flavor.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps achieve a creamy texture when mixing the dough.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.

• Bake in Batches: Bake only one tray at a time in the center of your oven for even cooking. This method ensures consistent results across all cookies.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies during baking. Remove them when edges are lightly golden; they will continue to set as they cool.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

Serving soft maple cookies with brown butter icing alongside complementary side dishes can create a delightful experience. Here are some recommendations:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   Pair with mild cheeses like Brie or Gouda that contrast nicely with the rich flavors of the cookies.

3. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt, granola, and berries for a healthy option that pairs well with sweet desserts.

4. Roasted Nuts
   A bowl of lightly salted roasted nuts provides a savory crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the cookies.

5. Hot Chocolate
   Serve alongside a warm mug of homemade hot chocolate for a comforting pairing perfect for colder days.

6. Caramel Sauce Dip
   Offer caramel sauce as a dip for those who want an extra layer of sweetness while enjoying their cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and even small errors can affect your Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the chilling step: Not refrigerating the dough can lead to flat cookies. Chilling helps maintain shape and enhances flavor.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make cookies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a soft texture.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can prevent proper mixing. Always use room-temperature ingredients for better results.
• Ignoring baking times: Baking for too long can dry out cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove when edges are golden.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dense cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet; once firm, transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• They will last for up to three months.

Reheating Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for 10-15 seconds until soft.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing.

Can I use other types of syrup instead of maple syrup?

You can try agave syrup or honey, but this will alter the flavor profile of the cookies significantly.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Look for lightly golden edges and set centers. They should appear just slightly underbaked in the middle.

Can I substitute brown sugar with white sugar?

While you can substitute white sugar, brown sugar adds moisture and flavor that enriches these cookies.

What is brown butter, and how do I make it?

Brown butter is made by melting regular butter until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. It adds depth to your icing.

How long does it take to prepare these cookies?

The total time is around 1 hour 30 minutes, including chilling time. Prep takes about 20 minutes.

Can I customize the toppings on my cookies?

Absolutely! You can use chopped nuts, sprinkles, or different flavored icings to add your personal touch.

Final Thoughts

These Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing are not only delicious but also versatile. You can experiment with various toppings or even add spices like nutmeg for extra warmth. Try this recipe as a delightful treat any time of year!