Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that’s bursting with rich, cozy flavors and a texture that’s just the right mix of chewy and tender, then you need to try this Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe. I absolutely love how this recipe combines the deep nuttiness of browned butter with the warm sweetness of maple and brown sugar—it’s comfort in cookie form! Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself (I won’t judge), these cookies will quickly become your go-to.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This list brings together some delicious pantry staples, plus a few special touches like apple butter and pecans to deepen the flavor profile. Each ingredient plays a role in the chewy, caramel-like magic of these cookies.

• Salted Butter: Using salted butter enhances the overall flavor, and browning part of it adds a rich, nutty depth.
• Dark Brown Sugar: This adds molasses notes that complement the maple syrup beautifully.
• Maple Syrup: Provides natural sweetness and that unmistakable maple flavor.
• Apple Butter: Adds moisture and a subtle fruity layer that balances the sweetness.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients while contributing to the cookie’s chewy texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and enhances all the sweet flavors.
• All-Purpose Flour: Creates structure without making the cookies dense.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies spread and rise just right.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds a cozy, spicy note that pairs perfectly with maple.
• Kosher Salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the browned butter’s richness.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Because, honestly, who can say no to melty chocolate chunks?
• Finely Chopped Pecans: For a little crunch and buttery flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• Powdered Sugar: Used in the maple glaze for a smooth, slightly thick finish.
• Flaky Sea Salt: Optional but highly recommended as a finishing touch—it’s a game-changer!

Variations

One of the things I love about this Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe is how easy it is to tweak depending on what you have and your cravings. Feel free to get creative—there’s no wrong way to make these snacks your own!

• Nut-Free Version: Swap out pecans for extra chocolate chips or dried cranberries if you have a nut allergy—still delicious!
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth in the fall and winter.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg; results may vary slightly but still delightful.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to accommodate dietary needs, but watch the texture as it might change a bit.

How to Make Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Butter and Chill

Start by melting 1.5 sticks of salted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. You’ll want to watch carefully—after a few minutes it will begin to foam and then start to brown, giving off a delicious nutty aroma. This takes about 3-4 minutes. Once browned, immediately transfer the butter to a heatproof bowl and stick it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to chill but be careful not to let it harden completely. This step creates the signature toasty flavor that makes these cookies unforgettable.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the remaining ½ stick softened butter, the cooled browned butter, and dark brown sugar until it’s creamy and well combined. Then add the maple syrup, apple butter, egg, and vanilla extract—beat until the mixture looks luscious and smooth.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Mix-ins

Next up, sift in the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and kosher salt into your wet mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is just combined—you want those flour pockets gone but don’t overmix or you might toughen the cookies. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans for that beautiful balance of melty and crunchy.

Step 4: Scoop and Bake, Then Flatten

Roll the dough into rounded tablespoon-sized balls and place them about 3 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 minutes, then take the pan out and tap it on the counter twice to gently flatten the cookies down—this little trick creates that perfect chewy texture. Pop them back in the oven and bake for another 1-2 minutes, watching closely until the edges just start to set but the centers are still soft. Remove again, tap once or twice, then let them cool right on the sheet. They’ll keep cooking slightly while they rest, so patience is your secret weapon here.

Step 5: Whip Up the Maple Glaze

While the cookies cool, melt 4 tablespoons of butter with ⅓ cup maple syrup in a small pot over medium heat. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. When you drizzle this glaze over the still-warm cookies, it melts into a sweet, thick, luxurious coating that’s downright addictive. For a final touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top to balance the sweetness.

How to Serve Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For me, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before serving is non-negotiable. It cuts through the sweetness and highlights all those lovely browned butter and maple flavors. If you’re feeling fancy, a tiny drizzle of extra maple glaze adds a glossy finish that’s beautiful and delicious.

Side Dishes

These cookies are fabulous on their own, but if you want to go all out, serve them alongside a cup of strong black coffee, vanilla bean ice cream, or even a warm chai latte. The warm spices in the cookies complement spiced drinks like a dream.

Creative Ways to Present

I once made a cookie platter for a holiday brunch topped with chopped pecans and a dusting of cinnamon sugar around the edges—my guests went wild! Wrapping small stacks with rustic twine and attaching a little maple-themed tag also makes these cookies perfect for gifting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. I like to separate layers with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. They stay chewy and fresh—though, I rarely have leftovers!

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Just pop them on a tray to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready, bake from the frozen state, adding a minute or two to the baking time. You can also freeze fully baked cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.

Reheating

To freshen up leftovers, warm cookies in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This revitalizes their chewy texture and melts a bit of the glaze. Of course, a quick zap in the microwave for 10-15 seconds works well for a faster fix, but watch carefully to avoid overheating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Brown Butter Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe is one of those keepsakes in my baking repertoire. I love how it brings out the cozy flavors of fall and winter, yet feels indulgent enough to enjoy any time. Once you try it, you’ll understand why my family and friends keep asking for more. So, dust off your mixing bowls and try making these cookies—you’ll be rewarded with warm, tender bites full of maple goodness that make every day a little sweeter.

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