Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing are a delightful treat that brings the comforting flavors of fall right into your kitchen. These cookies are soft, chewy, and topped with a luscious brown butter icing that adds a unique depth of flavor. Perfect for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying at home, this recipe is sure to impress friends and family alike. The combination of premium pure maple syrup and nutty brown butter sets these cookies apart, making them a must-try for any cookie lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The rich taste of maple syrup combined with the nutty notes of brown butter creates a flavor profile that is truly exceptional.
• Chewy Texture: Chilling the dough ensures the cookies are thick and tender, with a delightful chewiness in every bite.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy evening at home or festive gatherings. These cookies fit right in!
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like flour and sugar, plus the standout maple syrup that elevates the recipe.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delicious cookies without hassle.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Medium bowl
• Large bowl
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Light-colored saucepan
• Heatproof bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools help achieve a light and fluffy texture when mixing ingredients.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets prevents sticking, ensuring easy removal of cookies after baking.
• Light-colored saucepan: This allows you to easily monitor the browning of the butter without burning it.

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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.

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the following:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking soda
3. Fine sea salt
4. Ground cinnamon

Make sure these ingredients are evenly combined before setting them aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl (using a stand mixer with paddle attachment or hand mixer), beat together:
1. The softened unsalted butter
2. The packed brown sugar

Mix on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

To the creamed mixture, add:
1. The pure maple syrup
2. The large egg
3. The pure vanilla extract

Beat until just combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture

On low speed, gradually add the dry ingredient mixture from Step 1 until flour streaks disappear. Be cautious not to overmix; your dough should be soft.

Step 5: Chill Dough

Cover your dough with plastic wrap or parchment paper and refrigerate for at least one hour (up to three days). This will help prevent excess spread during baking while deepening the maple flavor.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 7: Scoop Dough

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out approximately 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie. Place them spaced about two inches apart on your lined baking sheets.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers look just set. Allow them to cool on the sheet for about five minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 9: Prepare Brown Butter Icing

In a light-colored saucepan over medium heat, melt:
1. The remaining unsalted butter

Swirl occasionally until it becomes foamy and speckled with brown bits—this should develop a nutty aroma. Immediately pour this into a heatproof bowl to stop further cooking.

Add:
1. The sifted powdered sugar
2. The additional pure maple syrup
3. Optional: Ground cinnamon

Whisk until smooth, then incorporate milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach a thick but pourable consistency.

Step 10: Ice Cookies

Dip or drizzle cooled cookies in icing while it’s still wet. For an added touch, sprinkle with flaky sea salt or chopped toasted pecans before allowing them to set for about thirty minutes before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing!

How to Serve Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

Serving Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy these cookies that highlight their rich flavors and textures.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic combination. The creaminess of the milk complements the sweetness of the icing perfectly.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies alongside other sweets like brownies, mini cheesecakes, and fruit tarts. This diverse platter will cater to various tastes and make your dessert table inviting.

Crumbled Over Ice Cream

• Crumble the cookies over a scoop of vanilla or maple ice cream to add texture and flavor contrast. This creates a deliciously indulgent treat.

With a Cup of Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with your favorite brewed beverage. The warm spices in the cookie enhance the richness of both coffee and tea.

Gift-Wrapped for Friends

• Package cookies in decorative boxes or bags as thoughtful gifts. This adds a personal touch, making them perfect for holidays or special occasions.

How to Perfect Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

Perfecting Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve cookie perfection every time.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least an hour prevents excess spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter, eggs, and any dairy are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping it directly from the bag. This prevents compacting and leads to less dense cookies.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden around the edges yet soft in the center when done.

• Brown Your Butter Carefully: When browning butter, watch closely for a nutty aroma without burning it. This step adds depth of flavor to your icing.

• Adjust Icing Consistency: If your icing is too thick, add milk gradually until you reach the desired pourable consistency without losing its thickness.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing can be complemented by a selection of side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great pairings:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A smooth vanilla scoop balances out the sweetness while providing a cool contrast to warm cookies.
2. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit medley adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda which provide creamy notes that pair well with maple flavors.
4. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle homemade caramel over your plate or use it as a dip for added decadence.
5. Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of hot chocolate offers comforting warmth that pairs beautifully with sweet treats.
6. Nuts & Dried Fruits Mix: A mix provides crunch and chewiness that contrasts nicely with soft cookies, making every bite interesting.
7. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing option that complements cookie sweetness without being overly rich.
8. Maple Syrup Drizzle: Enhance each cookie’s flavor by drizzling extra maple syrup on top before serving for an extra touch of maple goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with soft cookies. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing.

• Ignoring the chill time: Skipping refrigeration can lead to cookies that spread too much. Always chill the dough for at least an hour to enhance flavor and texture.
• Using cold ingredients: Using cold butter or egg can affect the dough’s consistency. Ensure your butter is softened and your egg is at room temperature for a better mix.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until the flour streaks disappear to keep them soft and chewy.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Skipping parchment paper: Baking directly on a sheet can cause sticking. Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• For best flavor, keep them at room temperature.

Freezing Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make them hard.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 1 minute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing that may help you perfect your baking experience.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden and centers look just set. They will continue cooking slightly after being removed from the oven.

Can I use different types of maple syrup?

Yes! While Grade A Dark maple syrup is recommended for its rich flavor, you can use any pure maple syrup you prefer.

How can I customize Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits into the dough before chilling. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture!

What if I don’t have unsalted butter?

You can use salted butter instead; just reduce any additional salt in the recipe by half.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing are not only delicious but also versatile. With their rich maple flavor and tender texture, they make a perfect treat any time of year. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite nuts or spices. Enjoy baking these delightful cookies!