Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing are a delightful treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. These cookies are perfect for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a cozy dessert at home. With their soft texture and rich maple flavor complemented by nutty brown butter icing, these cookies will surely impress everyone who takes a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pure maple syrup and brown butter provides a uniquely rich taste that stands out among ordinary cookies.
• Soft Texture: Chilling the dough ensures thick, tender cookies that have the perfect chewiness.
• Versatile Serving Options: These cookies can be enjoyed on their own or dressed up with icing, making them suitable for various occasions.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can make these cookies, even if you’re new to baking.
• Perfect for Sharing: Yielding about 30 cookies, they are ideal for sharing with friends or family during special moments.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Essential for easily combining ingredients to achieve a light and fluffy cookie dough.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to separate dry and wet ingredients efficiently.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking on baking sheets, ensuring easy cookie removal after baking.

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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 until evenly combined:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking soda
3. Fine sea salt
4. Ground cinnamon

Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer:
1. Beat the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (approximately 2–3 minutes).
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add in the pure maple syrup. Beat until fully combined.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add in:
1. The large egg
2. The pure vanilla extract

Mix just until combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

On low speed:
1. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients.
2. Mix only until flour streaks disappear; avoid overmixing as your dough will be soft.

Step 5: Chill Dough

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

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C):
1. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Scoop out about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie, spacing them around two inches apart on the baking sheets.
3. Bake for about 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers look just set.
4. Allow them to cool on the sheet for five minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 7: Make Brown Butter Icing

In a light-colored saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt the remaining 1/4 cup of unsalted butter.
2. Swirl occasionally until it becomes foamy with speckled brown bits forming, releasing a nutty aroma.
3. Pour it immediately into a heatproof bowl to stop further cooking.
4. Whisk in sifted powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, and optional ground cinnamon.
5. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach a thick but pourable consistency.

Step 8: Ice Cookies

Dip or drizzle cooled cookies in icing:
1. While still wet, sprinkle flaky sea salt or chopped toasted pecans on top.
2. Let sit for approximately thirty minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing!

How to Serve Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these cookies can fit any occasion.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with cold milk for a classic combination that enhances their sweetness and flavor.

As Dessert After Dinner

• Serve your cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that everyone will love.

At a Cozy Tea or Coffee Break

• Enjoy the cookies alongside a steaming cup of tea or coffee. The warm beverage complements the rich maple flavors perfectly.

Gift-Wrapped for Friends

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or tins as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

With Fresh Fruit Slices

• Serve alongside slices of crisp apples or juicy pears to add a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookie flavors.

On a Dessert Platter

• Create an impressive dessert platter by arranging these cookies with other baked goods, garnished with seasonal fruits and nuts for variety.

How to Perfect Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

To ensure your Soft Maple Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these simple tips for success.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps prevent spreading and enhances the cookie’s flavor.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

• Brown Butter Carefully: When browning butter, swirl the pan to avoid burning. The goal is a nutty aroma without darkening too much.

• Sift Powdered Sugar: Sifting powdered sugar before mixing it into your icing ensures a smooth consistency without lumps.

• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like chopped pecans or flavored sea salts to customize your cookie experience.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

Soft Maple Cookies pair well with several side dishes that complement their sweet and nutty flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Cinnamon Apples: Sauté sliced apples with cinnamon and sugar for a warm, comforting side that echoes the spices in your cookies.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds richness and balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the cookies for an extra decadent touch.

4. Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can enhance your cookie experience, especially when served alongside fruit.

5. Chai Tea: A spiced chai tea offers warmth and complements the maple flavors while adding a hint of spice.

6. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses, such as brie or cream cheese, provides a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.

7. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can provide balance, offering acidity and brightness against the rich maple taste.

8. Chocolate Fondue: For those who love chocolate, serving these cookies with a side of warm chocolate fondue creates an indulgent treat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect texture and flavor.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough for at least an hour is crucial. It helps prevent spreading and enhances the maple flavor.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much after adding the flour can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated properly. An inaccurate temperature can result in cookies that are either too dry or undercooked.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring tools for flour and brown sugar. Too much flour can make your cookies dense, while too little can cause them to spread too much.
• Baking on ungreased sheets: Although parchment paper is great, if you’re not using it, ensure your baking sheets are greased lightly. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Soft Maple Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Ensure they are completely cool before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds; be cautious not to overheat as they may become tough.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing a lid on top for about 2-3 minutes to warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of syrup for these cookies?

You can experiment with different syrups like agave or honey; however, maple syrup offers the best flavor profile that complements the icing.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers should look just set. They will continue cooking slightly after being removed from the oven.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking, ensuring it includes xanthan gum if needed.

What variations can I try with these Soft Maple Cookies?

Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor variety.

How do I store leftover brown butter icing?

Keep any leftover icing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Re-whip before using again for best consistency.

Final Thoughts

Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing offer a delightful blend of flavors that makes them perfect for any occasion. Their soft texture paired with rich icing makes these cookies irresistible. Feel free to customize with mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste!