The warm aroma of brown butter bubbling in a saucepan can trigger memories of home and comfort, making it impossible to resist the call of baking. Today, I'm excited to share my recipe for Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies—truly a cozy classic that blends rich flavors and a delightful chew. With just the right balance of sweetness from maple syrup and brown sugar, these cookies are not only an indulgent treat but also incredibly quick to whip up. They perfectly fit into any moment, whether it’s a festive gathering or a quiet afternoon snack. Plus, their adaptable nature means you can easily switch out ingredients to suit your taste. Curious how to create these delightful bites? Let’s dive in!
Why Make Brown Butter Cookies?
Easy to Create: With just a handful of ingredients, these cookies come together in no time, making them the perfect project for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike.
Deep, Nutty Flavor: The brown butter adds a rich, nutty depth that elevates the traditional cookie experience, ensuring every bite is a heavenly delight.
Chewy Perfection: Each cookie boasts a soft, chewy texture that's simply irresistible, whether paired with a cup of coffee or enjoyed on their own.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorites—swap pecans for walnuts or add a sprinkle of sea salt for a sophisticated twist.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone at the table will love these cookies, making them a go-to choice for gatherings and celebrations. Spend some time in the kitchen creating these delicious treats, and don't forget to check out my tips for baking perfect cookies to make your baking experience even more enjoyable!
Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Butter – Use unsalted for better control of salt levels; brown it for a nutty flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Essential for moisture and sweetness; both light and dark varieties work.
- Maple Syrup – For an authentic touch, choose real maple syrup instead of imitation.
- Apple Butter – Adds moisture and a hint of fruit; can swap with other fruit butters if needed.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together; no substitutions recommended unless necessary.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; always opt for pure extract over imitation.
For the Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose Flour – Provides the structure; whole wheat flour can be an alternative.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; don’t substitute directly with baking powder.
- Cinnamon – Offers warmth and spice; adjust the quantity to match your taste preferences.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness; consider reducing if using salted butter.
For the Mix-ins
- Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips – Infuses richness; feel free to use dark chocolate for added intensity.
- Chopped Pecans – Adds a delightful crunch; can be switched with walnuts or omitted for nut-free cookies.
For the Optional Glaze
- Butter – Use melted for a smooth glaze; it enhances the overall sweetness.
- Maple Syrup – Complements the cookies’ flavors beautifully.
- Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and a nice finish with just a pinch of salt for balance.
With these ingredients at your fingertips, you're set to create irresistibly chewy Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies that will warm the hearts of your family and friends!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by melting 1.5 sticks of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 5–7 minutes until the butter turns a golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Once browned, remove it from heat and transfer to a bowl. Allow the brown butter to cool for 10–15 minutes until slightly firm.
Step 2: Cream Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter with ½ stick of softened butter and ¾ cup of dark brown sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which takes about 2–3 minutes. Next, add in ¼ cup of maple syrup, ¼ cup of apple butter, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until fully integrated.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined, making sure not to overmix. The dough for the Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies will be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 4: Add Mix-ins
Gently fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and ½ cup of chopped pecans to the dough. Use a spatula to incorporate the mix-ins evenly, but be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can affect the cookie's chewiness. The chunks of chocolate and the crunch of pecans should be well distributed throughout.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a tablespoon, scoop dough and roll into balls, placing them 3 inches apart on the prepared sheet. Bake for 8 minutes, then gently tap the baking sheet on the counter to encourage even spreading. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 1–2 minutes until the edges are set but the centers look slightly soft.
Step 6: Cool and Glaze (Optional)
Once baked, allow the Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks. If desired, prepare a simple glaze by melting the remaining butter and mixing it with maple syrup and powdered sugar until smooth. Drizzle this over the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness, or serve it on the side for dipping.
Expert Tips for Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
- Perfect Brown Butter: Watch your butter closely as it browns. The nutty aroma means it’s perfect; overdoing it can lead to burnt flavors.
- Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the dough after adding dry ingredients and mix-ins. This ensures your cookies stay chewy rather than dense.
- Proper Spacing: Leave at least 3 inches between dough balls on the baking sheet. These cookies spread out while baking, and adequate space allows for even cooking.
- Cool Cookies: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet to achieve that ideal soft center and slightly crisp edges—don’t rush this step!
- Storage Savvy: Keep your Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days, layering with parchment to prevent sticking.
Make Ahead Options
These Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance. Simply follow the first four steps, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’d like to store it longer, you can freeze the unbaked dough in individual balls, labeled and sealed in an airtight container, for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just preheat your oven and place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet—no need to thaw! This way, you’ll get the same deliciously chewy cookies with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these creative tweaks and make this beloved recipe your own!
- Nut-Free: Omit pecans or swap them with sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch without the nuts.
- Spice Twist: Try adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger to introduce a warm, festive flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Sweet & Salty: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before the cookies go into the oven for that perfect sweet and salty balance.
- Fruity Addition: Mix in ½ cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a delightful fruity burst in each bite, creating a beautiful contrast with the rich maple flavors.
- Whole Wheat: If you’re looking for a heartier texture, substitute 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour while maintaining the other proportions.
- Chocolate Lovers: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips for a different flavor profile that chocolate lovers will adore in every scrumptious bite!
- Caramel Drizzle: For extra decadence, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies right before serving, making them an indulgent dessert that’s worth savoring.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the dough, pairing surprisingly well with the sweetness of maple syrup.
With these variations, your Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies can adapt to any preference or occasion, ensuring a treat for everyone! And don’t forget to check out my tips for baking perfect cookies to make every batch a resounding success!
How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Layer them with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together.
- Fridge: If you prefer chilled cookies, you can refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week while maintaining their delicious taste and texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through, reviving that delightful, chewy texture.
What to Serve with Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
Indulging in a freshly baked cookie is a delight, but pairing it perfectly can elevate your experience even more.
- Rich Coffee: The deep flavors of a well-brewed cup of coffee enhance the sweetness and nuttiness of the cookies.
- Chai Latte: A warm chai with spices complements the cinnamon in the cookies, creating a heartwarming pairing.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture, adding a refreshing touch.
- Sliced Apples: Fresh apple slices with a sprinkle of cinnamon provide a crisp, juicy contrast to the rich cookies.
- Milk: A classic choice! Cold milk balances the sweetness, making every bite even more enjoyable.
- Cheese Platter: Pair with sharp cheddar or creamy brie for an unexpected, yet delicious twist that combines sweet and savory.
- Hot Chocolate: For a cozy dessert moment, rich hot chocolate offers a comforting beverage with each cookie bite.
- Pecans or Mixed Nuts: Set out a small bowl of assorted nuts to nibble on between bites, adding crunch and depth to your snack.
- Dried Cranberries: Serve with a side of dried cranberries for a pop of tartness that brightens up the flavors.
- Ginger Tea: A warm cup of ginger tea refreshes the palette while enhancing the warmth of the cookies.
Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely, for these Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies, I recommend using unsalted butter. This allows you full control over the saltiness of the cookies. If you can, take the time to brown the butter; it’s the secret ingredient that gives a deep, nutty flavor to the cookies that you won't want to miss!
How should I store leftover cookies?
After baking, keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking together. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them in an airtight container for up to a week. They'll maintain their delightful flavor and texture even when chilled!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Once the cookies have cooled, you can freeze them for longer storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. Just remember to reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes for that fresh-baked taste!
What if my cookies come out too dense?
If you find your cookies are too dense, it could be from overmixing the dough. Ensuring you mix gently, especially after adding the dry ingredients, is key for maintaining that chewy texture. Additionally, make sure you're measuring your flour accurately; packing it down can lead to more flour in the mix and result in denser cookies.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Yes! While this recipe isn’t gluten-free, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. As for those with nut allergies, you can leave out the pecans altogether or substitute them with seeds like sunflower seeds for that added crunch without the allergens. Enjoy adapting the recipe to fit your dietary needs!
Irresistibly Chewy Brown Butter Maple Brown Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Butter: Melt 1.5 sticks of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat and cool.
- Cream Ingredients: Combine cooled brown butter, 0.5 stick softened butter, ¾ cup dark brown sugar. Mix until smooth, then add ¼ cup maple syrup, ¼ cup apple butter, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon salt. Gradually add to wet mixture until just combined.
- Add Mix-ins: Fold in 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and ½ cup chopped pecans without overworking the dough.
- Shape and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Scoop dough into balls, place 3 inches apart on baking sheet. Bake for 8 minutes, tap sheet, then bake for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Cool and Glaze: Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks. Optionally, prepare glaze by mixing melted butter, maple syrup, and powdered sugar.
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