There’s something incredibly comforting about cookies, isn’t there? They evoke memories of lazy afternoons spent baking with family, the enticing aroma wafting through the house, and the sheer joy of creating something delicious from a handful of simple ingredients. This recipe for maple cookies with brown butter icing brings together the warm flavors of maple and nutty browned butter, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re cozied up with a warm drink on a chilly day or celebrating a special occasion, these cookies are bound to win hearts and tickle taste buds.
Reasons to try it
So, what makes this cookie recipe a must-try? First off, they’re incredibly simple to make and can be whipped up in no time. Perfect for those weeknight cravings or an impromptu gathering with friends, these cookies bring a little sweetness to any moment. The deep, rich flavor of brown sugar combined with the warmth of maple syrup creates a cozy taste that feels like home. And let’s not forget about that icing! The brown butter adds an unmistakable depth that takes these cookies from ordinary to extraordinary.
“These cookies are my go-to when I need a treat that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. The icing is heavenly!” – A happy home baker
How this recipe comes together
Now, let’s talk about how easy it is to bring these delightful cookies to life. The process involves mixing, baking, and then drizzling with a beautifully nutty icing. You’ll be looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish, making this a quick fix for your sweet tooth. So, gather your ingredients and get ready—your kitchen is about to smell divine.
What you’ll need
For this recipe, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for icing)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for icing)
If you’re low on maple syrup, you can substitute with honey, but trust me, maple is worth it here. It adds that iconic flavor that really shines through.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking—always helps with the cleanup.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This gives your cookies structure, so don’t skip this step!
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this should take about 3 to 5 minutes. The texture is key!
- Now, add in the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing just until everything is combined. The dough should smell absolutely heavenly at this point.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we’re looking for a tender cookie here.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart, because they will spread a little.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For that luscious icing, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and whisk in maple syrup and powdered sugar until smooth—this glossy icing is going to elevate your cookies.
- Drizzle the brown butter icing over the cooled cookies. Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or your favorite tea is a delightful afternoon treat!
Best ways to enjoy it
These maple cookies with brown butter icing are best enjoyed fresh. Serve them after a cozy weekend brunch or alongside a hot cup of cocoa on a snowy afternoon. For a fun twist, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Honestly, they also make an adorable gift when packaged in a lovely box; just a little ribbon, and you have a thoughtful treat for a friend!
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing these cookies is straightforward. Once they’ve cooled completely, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you foresee not finishing them quickly (which might be hard to imagine!), you can freeze them. Just layer them with parchment paper and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, they can easily be thawed at room temperature or warmed up slightly in the microwave.
Helpful cooking tips
- When creaming butter and sugar, be patient. The light and airy texture is crucial for the perfect cookie.
- If your brown butter icing seems too thick, a splash of milk can help it reach the desired consistency.
- Experiment with your add-ins! Pecans or walnuts would make a delightful addition for those who crave a little crunch.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Mix it up by using flavored extracts like almond or orange. You can also swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat for a nuttier taste. If you want to skip the icing, rolling the cookie dough balls in sugar before baking can add a pleasing crunch.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prep?
Typically, you should expect about 10–15 minutes for preparation, with another 10–12 minutes for baking.
Can I substitute maple syrup for something else?
Yes, you can use honey if maple syrup isn’t on hand, but the flavor profile will differ slightly.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week, or freeze for up to three months!
Embracing the sweet simplicity of these maple cookies combined with rich brown butter icing is not just about baking; it’s a small celebration in your kitchen. So why not roll up your sleeves and give yourself that little treat? Happy baking!
Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add in the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing just until combined.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns brown and gives off a nutty aroma.
- Remove from heat and whisk in maple syrup and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Drizzle the brown butter icing over the cooled cookies.