Name: Irresistible Chewy Brown Sugar Maple Cookies with Pecans Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 148 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (spoon and leveled); 1 teaspoon baking soda (leavening agent); 1 teaspoon salt (just a pinch); 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup dark brown sugar (packed firmly); 1 large egg (room temperature); 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (quality syrup enhances taste); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances flavor); 1 teaspoon maple extract (optional but recommended); 1 cup chopped pecans (can substitute with walnuts); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (high-quality syrup is ideal); 2 cups sifted confectioners' sugar (avoid lumps); a pinch salt (to balance sweetness)

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As autumn paints the landscape in rich hues, I found myself craving something warm and satisfying—a treat that combines the comforting sweetness of maple syrup with a delightful crunch. Enter my Irresistible Chewy Brown Sugar Maple Cookies with Pecans and Icing. These cookies aren’t just desserts; they are a hug in a bite, filling your kitchen with an enticing aroma that beckons everyone to gather round.

With their soft, chewy centers and crispy edges, each cookie is a little celebration of flavor and texture, perfect for everything from cozy family evenings to festive gatherings. What I love most is their versatility—you can easily swap in walnuts or even dark chocolate if you’re feeling adventurous! Join me in creating these delicious cookies that promise to impress guests or simply elevate your afternoon snack. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why are Irresistible Chewy Brown Sugar Maple Cookies a must?

Irresistible, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, bringing warmth and joy to your table. Chewy texture ensures a delightful bite, and the maple flavor captivates every palate. Quick to make, the simple ingredients come together in no time, while crowd-pleasing sweetness makes them a favorite amongst friends and family. Feel free to explore variations, like adding dark chocolate chips or trying them alongside a cup of tea—just like with my Decadent Brown Cookies. These cookies are sure to become a beloved staple in your homemade treats!

Irresistible Chewy Brown Sugar Maple Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour – Forms the dough structure; spoon and level for accuracy to avoid dense cookies.
Baking soda – Leavening agent to achieve a fluffy texture; essential for rising during baking.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth; only a pinch is needed.
Unsalted butter – Provides a creamy base for the dough; must be softened for optimal blending.
Dark brown sugar – Primary sweetener adding rich, caramel-like sweetness; packed firmly to achieve correct sweetness level.
Egg – Helps with moisture and binding of ingredients; use room temperature for better incorporation.
Pure maple syrup – Imparts signature maple flavor essential for the recipe; quality syrup enhances taste.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall cookie flavor; a must for any cookie recipe.
Maple extract – Adds an extra depth of maple flavor; optional but recommended for richness.
Chopped pecans – Introduces a delightful crunch; can be substituted with walnuts if desired.

For the Icing

Unsalted butter – Creates a creamy icing; melt carefully to maintain consistency.
Pure maple syrup – Adds flavor and sweetness to the icing; high-quality syrup is ideal.
Sifted confectioners’ sugar – Thickens the icing for a smooth finish; avoid lumps for best results.
Pinch of salt – Balances sweetness in the icing; just a hint is sufficient.

How to Make Irresistible Chewy Brown Sugar Maple Cookies

Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Set it aside to ensure a well-balanced cookie dough.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and dark brown sugar together until it’s light and creamy, about 3 minutes. This step ensures a rich flavor.
Add Egg and Extracts: Incorporate the room temperature egg, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract into the mixture. Blend well for about 1 minute until everything is fully combined.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until no streaks of flour remain. Avoid over-mixing to keep them chewy.
Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This adds a delightful crunch to each cookie.
Chill Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 3 days. Chilling enhances the texture and allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C), and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking while baking.
Shape Cookies: Roll the chilled dough into balls, about 1.5 tablespoons each, and space them out on the prepared baking sheets. This gives them room to spread while baking.
Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-13 minutes until the edges are lightly browned, while the centers remain soft. Allow them to cool for 5 minutes on the sheets before transferring to a wire rack.
Prepare Icing: In a saucepan, melt the leftover unsalted butter and pure maple syrup together. Whisk in sifted confectioners’ sugar and a pinch of salt until it’s smooth. Drizzle the icing over cooled cookies for a sweet finish.

Optional: Drizzle additional maple syrup on top for an extra burst of flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Irresistible Chewy Brown Sugar Maple Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to preserve their chewy texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will revitalize the chewy goodness of your Irresistible Chewy Brown Sugar Maple Cookies.

What to Serve with Chewy Brown Sugar Maple Cookies with Pecans and Icing?

These delightful cookies are perfect for creating a cozy and indulgent dessert spread.

Warm Coffee: The rich, robust flavor of coffee perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing the maple notes. Enjoy this pairing while curled up with a book for a delightful afternoon break.
Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea complement the maple and pecan flavors, offering a comforting warmth that invites relaxation. Sip slowly to savor the blend of tastes and scents.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing contrast, making every bite of cookie feel like a decadent treat. Serve the cookies warm with a scoop of ice cream on top for dessert perfection.
Chocolate Milk: For a kid-friendly twist, serve these cookies with a glass of rich chocolate milk. The sweetness of the cookies and the chocolate will delight everyone at the table.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing tanginess that cuts through the cookies’ sweetness. They are also a beautiful garnish to elevate your dessert presentation.
Maple Pecan Pie: Continue the theme of maple and nuts with a slice of maple pecan pie. The combination creates a seasonal delight that is sure to impress at any gathering.
Nutty Granola Parfait: Layer some nutty granola and yogurt for a fun and crunchy side dish that provides a healthy contrast to the chewy cookies. It’s a great way to add some freshness to your dessert spread.
Sparkling Apple Cider: Celebrate any occasion with a glass of sparkling apple cider. The fruity effervescence pairs sensationally with the warm flavors of your cookies.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce on top of the cookies for an extra indulgent touch. It adds a creamy texture and rich flavor that elevates the whole experience.

Chewy Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delectable cookies; they’re so versatile that you can customize them to fit your taste buds!

Nut-Free: Substitute chopped pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy, nut-free alternative.
Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water).
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a safe, delightful gluten-free option.
Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for a surprising, bold flavor kick.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in dark chocolate chips along with the pecans for an indulgent twist that’s oh-so-delicious.
Fruity Surprise: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries into the dough for a pop of fruity flavor alongside the maple sweetness.
Maple Pecan Swirl: Instead of icing, drizzle a rich maple glaze made from maple syrup and powdered sugar over the cookies for added sweetness.
Coconut Bliss: Fold in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with maple.

With these variations, your baking adventure will be gratifying and full of delightful surprises!

Expert Tips for Irresistible Chewy Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and incorporation into the dough, resulting in a better chewy texture.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the dough to rest in the fridge for at least 2 hours deepens flavors and helps achieve the perfect chewy cookie consistency.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on baking time; over-baking will lead to dry cookies. The centers should remain soft to maintain that irresistible chew.
Quality Matters: Always use high-quality pure maple syrup in both the cookies and the icing for a rich, authentic flavor that truly shines.
Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to swap in walnuts instead of pecans, or even add a sprinkle of chocolate chips for a twist on these delightful chewy cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Irresistible Chewy Brown Sugar Maple Cookies with Pecans are perfect for busy schedules and meal prep lovers! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days to save time on your baking day. Simply cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and chill, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, just roll the chilled dough into balls, and place them on the baking sheets. For the icing, make it fresh while the cookies cool for the best consistency and flavor. This way, you’ll have delicious cookies that taste just as delightful while saving you valuable time in the kitchen!

Irresistible Chewy Brown Sugar Maple Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my maple syrup is high-quality?
Absolutely! Look for pure maple syrup that lists 100% maple syrup as the only ingredient. It should be thick and have a rich amber color. Avoid imitation syrups as they often contain artificial flavors and sugars that won’t provide the same depth of flavor.

How should I store leftover cookies?
For the best results, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them chewy. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. Make sure to let them reach room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze the cookies? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your Irresistible Chewy Brown Sugar Maple Cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll last up to 3 months. To enjoy them warm, just pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

What should I do if my cookies turn out flat?
If your cookies spread more than expected, there are a few things you can check! Ensure your butter is not too warm before mixing it with sugar, as soft butter can lead to extra spreading. Chill the dough longer if necessary, about 4 hours, and double-check that you measured your flour correctly (spoon and leveled) to avoid a too-wet dough. Also, ensure your baking soda hasn’t expired, as it’s crucial for the lift!

Are these cookies suitable for pets, and what about allergies?
While these cookies are delightful for humans, they are not meant for pets, especially due to the sugar and possible nut content. For allergies, be cautious if someone has a nut allergy, as they contain pecans. Always check your ingredients for common allergens, like gluten, in the flour, especially if you’re sharing with family or friends.