Indulge in the exquisite simplicity of Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing. This elegant treat marries the warm, rich flavors of pure maple syrup with a luxurious brown butter glaze, creating a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture. Perfect for any sophisticated gathering, these cookies encapsulate the essence of refined baking while remaining accessible to every home cook.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: Achieve gourmet results with minimal fuss.
- Minimal Ingredients: Crafted from simple, high-quality components that shine.
- Impressive Flavor: The deep nuttiness of brown butter accentuates the sweet, warm notes of maple.
These cookies transcend the ordinary by combining rustic ingredients with an upscale presentation, making them perfect for any elegant occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Brown Butter Icing:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine the Base: In a mixing bowl, cream together the room-temperature butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until well combined, creating a smooth, glossy batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. The dough should be soft yet manageable.
- Scoop and Bake: Using a cookie scoop, place rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
- Brown the Butter Icing: While cookies cool, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Whisk the Icing: In a bowl, combine the browned butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more cream if necessary.
- Glaze the Cookies: Drizzle or spread the brown butter icing over the cooled cookies, allowing it to set for a few moments before serving.
How to Serve Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing
Elevate your presentation by arranging the cookies on a fine china platter or a slate board. A light dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint can add a touch of sophistication. Pairing these cookies with a nice cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of dessert wine enhances the experience.
How to Store Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing
To maintain their texture and flavor, store the glazed cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer a chewier texture, refrigerate them, allowing the icing to come to room temperature before enjoying. For a delightful moment, warm the cookies slightly in the microwave.
Tips to Make Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing
- Use high-quality maple syrup for the richest flavor.
- Cool the brown butter completely before adding it to the icing for the best consistency.
- Chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking to enhance texture.
- Experiment with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth.
Variation
For an elegant twist, consider incorporating chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the cookie dough. Alternatively, substitute half of the maple syrup with honey for a unique flavor profile, or drizzle the icing with melted chocolate for an exquisite finish.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, the cookie dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 48 hours before baking. Bake them fresh for a delightful treat.
What is the best way to ensure my cookies stay soft?
Avoid baking the cookies too long. Remove them from the oven when they are just set in the centers for a chewy texture.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze the unglazed cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw and ice before serving.
Conclusion
Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing are a refined treat that effortlessly combines simple ingredients for a luxurious indulgence. Their elegant flavor profile and delightful texture will elevate any occasion. Sharing this recipe with friends or on social media can inspire others to create their own masterpieces. How would you make this dish your own?
Print
Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the exquisite simplicity of Maple Cookies with Brown Butter Icing, marrying warm maple flavors with a luxurious brown butter glaze.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for icing)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream together the room-temperature butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract to the mixture, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Using a cookie scoop, place rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown with a nutty aroma, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, whisk together the browned butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Drizzle or spread the brown butter icing over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.
Notes
Use high-quality maple syrup for the richest flavor. Cool the brown butter completely before adding it to the icing for best consistency.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg