Brown Sugar Maple Cookies: Soft and Nutty with a Rich Maple Frosting

These Brown Sugar Maple Cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of brown sugar, butter, and pecans. Soft, chewy, and topped with a rich brown sugar frosting, these cookies are the perfect blend of sweetness and nuttiness. The chopped pecans inside the cookies add texture, while the creamy maple frosting adds a decadent finish. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a special treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee!

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The soft cookie base, made with a mix of brown sugar and butter, has just the right amount of sweetness. The addition of finely chopped pecans adds a delightful crunch and flavor that complements the buttery richness of the dough. The brown sugar frosting, cooked on the stovetop to develop a deep, caramel-like flavor, takes these cookies to the next level. Each cookie is topped with a pecan half or chopped pecans, adding a beautiful finishing touch.

Secrets to Perfect Brown Sugar Maple Cookies

To get that perfect texture, refrigerating the dough is key. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking and enhances the flavor. The frosting needs to be spread quickly, as it will thicken as it cools, creating a smooth and firm layer on top of the cookies. Be sure to toast the pecans for the best flavor; this simple step brings out their natural nuttiness.

The Role of Brown Sugar in Baking

Brown sugar is a staple in baking, offering a richer and deeper sweetness than regular granulated sugar. The molasses content in brown sugar gives these cookies their soft, chewy texture and enhances the flavor of the frosting. When combined with butter, it creates a soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie that is hard to resist.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 24 Cookies):

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 75mg

Cooking Tips

To achieve the perfect texture, don’t skip the step of refrigerating the dough. This ensures the cookies will bake evenly and won’t spread too much.Toasting the pecans before adding them to the dough or using them as a topping intensifies their flavor, making them the perfect complement to the rich brown sugar frosting.If the frosting becomes too thick while spreading, simply add a little more milk to bring it back to a smooth consistency.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.To freeze, place the cookies (without frosting) in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Frost them after thawing to maintain the texture and flavor of the frosting.

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Brown Sugar Maple Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup butter, room temperature
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (can use 50% whole wheat and 50% all-purpose, or all-purpose flour)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup finely chopped pecans
• 36 pecan halves or additional chopped pecans (toasted, for topping, optional)

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup milk or cream (1% milk works well)
• 1 tablespoon butter or margarine
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Instructions

1. In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.
2. Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Stir in the finely chopped pecans.
3. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or longer for a firmer dough).
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Shape the chilled dough into 1-inch balls (about 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a couple of inches between each cookie.
6. Bake the cookies for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are no longer glossy. Be careful not to overbake. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

For the Frosting

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and milk, whisking constantly. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the butter until melted. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and thick. If the frosting is too thin, add a little more powdered sugar; if it's too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
3. Spread about 1 tablespoon of frosting over each cooled cookie. Top each cookie with a pecan half or chopped pecans, if desired.
4. Allow the frosting to set before serving or storing the cookies.

These Brown Sugar Maple Cookies are the perfect combination of soft, chewy texture with a rich, nutty flavor. The brown sugar frosting adds a sweet, maple-like finish, making these cookies a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy them with your favorite hot beverage or as a special dessert!