Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Introduction

There’s something about the combination of brown sugar and maple syrup that just screams cozy comfort, and these Maple Brown Sugar Cookies embody that perfectly. I made a batch of these cookies last fall, and they quickly became a family favorite. My kids love them with a glass of milk, and my husband always requests them when we have guests over. The maple glaze on top adds a little extra sweetness, and the cinnamon gives them a warm, autumnal touch. The best part is how quick and easy these cookies are to make – they come together in about 25 minutes and yield a batch of soft, chewy cookies that are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just treating yourself to a cozy snack, these cookies are sure to bring comfort and smiles all around!

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Why You’ll Love Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

1. Irresistible Flavor
   The rich taste of brown sugar paired with the deep sweetness of pure maple syrup creates a warm, comforting flavor that is hard to resist. The cinnamon adds a subtle spice that enhances the overall taste without overpowering the other ingredients.
2. Soft and Chewy Texture
   These cookies have the perfect balance of softness and chewiness, making them incredibly satisfying with every bite. They’re not too crisp, so they melt in your mouth with each indulgence.
3. Quick and Easy
   With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of only 10 minutes, these cookies come together in no time. They’re perfect for last-minute baking or when you need a quick dessert that will impress your guests.
4. Perfect for Fall and Winter
   The flavors of maple and cinnamon scream cozy autumn and winter vibes. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special occasion, or just as a treat for yourself, these cookies evoke the warmth of the season.
5. Maple Glaze for Extra Sweetness
   The drizzle of maple glaze on top of each cookie adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness that makes these cookies even more special. It’s the perfect finishing touch.

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Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 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

For the Maple Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (for consistency)
• Optional: a sprinkle of cinnamon for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to ensure your cookies don’t stick.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and packed brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract, and continue beating until smooth and well-combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as doing so can result in tougher cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

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 the palm of your hand to create a flat surface. This will ensure the cookies bake evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are just golden and the centers have set. The cookies are best when they are slightly soft and chewy, so be careful not to overbake. Once they’re done, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Maple Glaze

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the maple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less milk; for a thinner glaze, add more.

Step 7: Drizzle the Glaze and Serve

Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the maple glaze over the top of each one. For an extra touch of flavor, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon on top of the glaze. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

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Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 150 kcal

(Note: The nutritional information is based on a typical serving size and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

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How to Serve

• With a Hot Drink: Serve your Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. The sweetness of the cookies pairs wonderfully with a warm beverage.
• Holiday Treats: These cookies make a perfect addition to holiday cookie trays or as a gift in a jar for family and friends.
• For Dessert: Enjoy these cookies after a comforting meal for a sweet ending to your day. Their rich flavor complements a variety of savory dishes.
• On Their Own: Sometimes, simplicity is best. Serve the cookies on a plate by themselves for a cozy snack.

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Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before you begin. This helps it cream together more easily with the brown sugar, resulting in a better texture.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough: To ensure your cookies are tender, avoid overmixing the dough once you’ve added the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
3. Make Smaller or Larger Cookies: If you prefer smaller cookies, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. For larger cookies, try rolling them into 2-inch balls and increasing the baking time by a minute or two.
4. Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want them to stay fresh longer, freeze them and thaw them as needed.
5. Enhance the Glaze: If you want to add a little more flavor to the glaze, consider adding a touch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to it.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular maple syrup instead of pure maple syrup?
   It’s best to use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. Imitation maple syrup may alter the taste of the cookies.
2. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
   Yes! You can freeze the dough in a log shape or as individual dough balls. When ready to bake, let the dough thaw before baking.
3. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   While butter gives the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
4. How can I make the glaze thicker?
   To thicken the glaze, use less milk or add a little extra powdered sugar.
5. Can I make these cookies without the glaze?
   Absolutely! The cookies are delicious on their own without the glaze if you prefer a less sweet option.
6. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
   The edges should be golden brown, and the centers should be set. The cookies will continue to firm up a bit as they cool on the baking sheet.
7. What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
   If the dough feels too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to firm it up before rolling into balls.
8. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to these cookies?
   Yes, you can add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture. Chocolate chips would also complement the maple flavor.
9. How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
   You can use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for the regular flour in this recipe.
10. Can I make a double batch of these cookies?
    Yes, you can double the recipe if you need more cookies. Just ensure you have enough space on your baking sheets for all of them.

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Conclusion

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. Their soft, chewy texture and rich maple flavor are complemented by a simple yet delicious maple glaze. Whether you’re baking them for the holidays, a special event, or just as a cozy snack for yourself, these cookies will become a family favorite in no time. Easy to make, quick to bake, and full of comforting flavor, they’re a true crowd-pleaser. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a batch of homemade cookies, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!

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