Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing are a delightful blend of sweet and nutty flavors, perfect for any gathering. The warm, golden color of these cookies instantly catches the eye, while their soft texture makes them irresistible. Imagine serving these at a cozy get-together, during the fall, or even during the holidays. Each bite takes you on a journey of rich maple goodness, complemented by the aromatic brown butter icing.

As you prepare these cookies, you will experience the glorious aroma of butter browning and the comforting scent of cinnamon filling your kitchen. This recipe will guide you through creating these delicious cookies from scratch, highlighting every step of the process. Get ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to a wonderful baking adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh Ingredients: Made with butter, flour, and pure maple syrup that elevate flavors.
2. Ease of Preparation: Simple steps make it accessible for bakers of all levels.
3. Nutrition: Infused with maple syrup, they offer a natural sweetness.
4. Versatility: Perfect for holidays, casual gatherings, or as a sweet afternoon treat.
5. Presentation: The beautiful icing and optional toppings make them visually appealing.

You’ll love how these cookies elevate any occasion!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total time: 2 hours (including chilling)
• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 12 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 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

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined; set aside.
2. In a large bowl (using a stand mixer with a paddle or hand mixer), beat the softened butter and brown sugar on medium until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Scrape down the bowl, then add maple syrup and beat until fully combined.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla just until mixed. Lower the speed, and gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing only until no flour streaks remain. The dough will be soft.
4. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 3 days) to prevent excess spreading and deepen the maple flavor.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop 1.5 tablespoons of dough, placing them 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look just set. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. For the icing, melt 1/4 cup of butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat. Cook, swirling, until it becomes foamy and develops brown bits with a nutty aroma. Immediately pour into a heatproof bowl to stop the cooking.
8. Whisk in the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and optional cinnamon. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach a thick but pourable consistency.
9. Dip or drizzle cooled cookies with icing. While the icing is still wet, sprinkle with flaky sea salt or toasted pecans. Let set for about 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

1. Presentation: Arrange cookies on a decorative platter for an eye-catching display.
2. Accompaniments: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
3. Portions: These cookies are perfect for sharing, so make a big batch for friends or family.
4. Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk for a classic combo.

These cookies are sure to impress any crowd!

Additional Tips

• Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cookie dough.
• Customize by replacing some all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
• Serve warm as a delightful treat; they taste even better fresh from the oven!

Recipe Variations

1. Chocolate Chip Maple Cookies: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a delicious mix.
2. Maple Oatmeal Cookies: Add 1 cup of rolled oats for a chewy texture.
3. Nutty Maple Cookies: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for an extra crunch.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: For best results, freeze cookies in a single layer in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Special Equipment

1. Mixing bowls
2. Stand mixer or hand mixer
3. Parchment paper
4. Baking sheets
5. Whisk
6. Heatproof bowl

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes, but it’s best to use fresh butter and eggs for better texture and flavor.

2. Are these cookies suitable for dietary restrictions?
These cookies contain flour, butter, and sugar, which may not fit gluten-free or dairy-free diets. However, substitutions can be made!

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Certainly! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days.

4. Can I customize the flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or different spices to suit your taste.

5. Can I bake these cookies in an air fryer?
Yes, but adjust the temperature and cooking time as needed for even baking.

Conclusion

Soft Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing are a delight that brings comfort and joy to every bite. Packed with flavor and visual appeal, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, these cookies are a wonderful choice. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this delicious baking experience!