Name: Maple Pecan Cookies with Brown Butter – Fall's Chewy Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 162 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Provides rich flavor; browning enhances nuttiness); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Adds sweetness and moisture); ⅓ cup Maple Syrup (Delivers a distinct, sweet flavor); 1 large Egg (Acts as a binder); 1 large Egg Yolk (Ensures cookies hold their shape); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Elevates the flavor); ½ teaspoon Maple Extract (Boosts maple taste); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Forms the structure of the cookies); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Leavening agent); ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt (Balances sweetness); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adds warm depth); 1 cup Chopped Pecans (Adds delightful crunch); 2 tablespoons Melted Butter (Adds richness and smoothness); ⅓ cup Maple Syrup (Infuses a sweet flavor); ½ teaspoon Maple Extract (Can substitute with vanilla extract); ¾ cup Powdered Sugar (Sweetens and thickens the glaze)

As I took a moment to savor the aroma wafting through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel wrapped in the warm embrace of autumn. These Maple Pecan Cookies with Brown Butter are the perfect way to celebrate the season, bringing together a chewy texture and the subtle sweetness of maple syrup. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe not only promises quick prep time but also delivers a delightful cookie that will be the star of any gathering. The richness of brown butter and the crunch of toasted pecans create a symphony of flavors that are simply irresistible. So, are you ready to fill your home with the cozy, nostalgic scent of freshly baked cookies? Let’s dive into this recipe and make some magic happen!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Chewy Texture: These Maple Pecan Cookies boast a soft and chewy center thanks to the perfect blend of brown butter and brown sugar.

Autumn Flavors: Infused with warm hints of maple syrup and cinnamon, each bite takes you on a seasonal journey that feels like a cozy fall day.

Easy Preparation: With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for when unexpected guests arrive.

Nutty Delight: The toasted pecans add a crunchy twist, enhancing the cookies’ depth while offering a lovely contrast to their chewy nature.

Versatility: Feel free to switch up pecans for walnuts or add chocolate chips for a fun take. Also, check out our recipes for Cookies Cream Ice for more delicious dessert options!

Maple Pecan Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Unsalted Butter – Provides rich flavor; browning it enhances nuttiness for maximum impact.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture, which is essential for those chewy Maple Pecan Cookies.
• Maple Syrup – Delivers a distinct, sweet flavor that’s perfect for autumn baking.
• Eggs (1 large + 1 yolk) – Act as a binder, ensuring your cookies hold their delightful shape.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor; swap with maple extract if you want a more pronounced maple taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of your cookies; consider a gluten-free blend for similar results.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help your cookies rise slightly; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for balancing sweetness and enhancing overall flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm depth, crucial for capturing those cherished fall flavors.
• Chopped Pecans – Introduce a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; feel free to use walnuts or almonds for a twist.

For the Maple Glaze
• Melted Butter (2 tbsp) – Gives richness and smoothness to the glaze.
• Maple Syrup (⅓ cup) – Infuses a sweet, distinctive flavor to finish your cookies beautifully.
• Maple Extract (½ tsp) – Boosts the maple taste; can be substituted with vanilla extract if needed.
• Powdered Sugar (¾ cup) – Sweetens and thickens the glaze for that lovely shiny finish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Pecan Cookies with Brown Butter

Step 1: Brown the Butter
Begin by melting 1 cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 5-7 minutes until it turns light amber and releases a nutty aroma. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, and when ready, remove it from heat and allow it to cool for 30 minutes. This brown butter is key for your Maple Pecan Cookies’ rich flavor.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans
While the butter cools, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 1 cup of chopped pecans and toast them for approximately 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and slightly golden. This simple step enhances their flavor, making your Maple Pecan Cookies even more delicious. Once toasted, remove from heat and let them cool.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, ⅓ cup of maple syrup, 1 large egg, 1 egg yolk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of maple extract. Use a whisk or mixer to blend everything together until smooth and well incorporated. This mixture will be the foundation for your chewy Maple Pecan Cookies.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Gradually fold this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Finally, gently stir in the toasted pecans to distribute the nutty goodness throughout your cookie dough.

Step 5: Scoop and Chill
Using a 1½ oz scoop, portion out the cookie dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart for baking. Cover the sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 1-2 hours. Chilling is crucial; it helps prevent your Maple Pecan Cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough is chilled, bake the cookies for 11-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown while the centers remain slightly soft. If desired, you can use a cookie cutter to gently shape them while they are still warm for a uniform look.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. In the meantime, prepare the maple glaze by whisking together 2 tablespoons of melted butter, ⅓ cup of maple syrup, ½ teaspoon of maple extract, and ¾ cup of powdered sugar until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled Maple Pecan Cookies for a sweet finishing touch.

Maple Pecan Cookies with Brown Butter Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful cookies, adding flavor or accommodating your dietary needs!

Nutty Substitutes: Swap pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor profile. Each alternative brings its unique charm to the mix.
Vegan Twist: Use a flax egg instead of traditional eggs to create a vegan-friendly option. Just combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
Chocolate Delight: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips for a lovely contrast to the maple flavor. The sweetness of the chocolate will elevate your cookies to a new level of deliciousness!
Dried Fruits: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins to add a burst of sweetness and chewiness. These fruity bites fit seamlessly with the autumn theme, bringing a delightful surprise in every bite.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Just keep an eye on the texture for the best possible results!
Maple Glaze Variation: Experiment by using vanilla extract instead of maple extract in the glaze for a lovely twist. This simple change can refresh the flavor while still complementing the cookies beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to the dough for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of maple syrup. Your taste buds will thank you for this exciting flavor exploration!
Creamy Toppings: Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top when serving. The cold creaminess pairs wonderfully with the warm, chewy cookies, creating an irresistible treat.

And if you’re looking for more sweet inspirations, check out our recipe for Banana Oatmeal Cookies or indulge in some homemade Cookies Cream Ice for an extra touch of sweetness!

Make Ahead Options

These Maple Pecan Cookies with Brown Butter are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking; just ensure it’s tightly wrapped to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can scoop individual cookie portions onto a baking sheet, freeze them for up to 3 months, and bake straight from the freezer—add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for best results. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful treats, simply bake until golden and glaze them right before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste and texture that’s just as delicious!

What to Serve with Maple Pecan Cookies with Brown Butter

Imagine the embrace of warmth and sweetness that accompanies every cookie bite—perfect pairings can elevate the experience even further.

Freshly Brewed Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee enhance the cookies’ sweetness beautifully, making each bite feel like a cozy hug in a mug.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices harmonize with the cookies’ cinnamon notes, creating an aromatic pairing that feels like autumn in a cup.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances the cookies’ chewiness, offering a delightful contrast that is simply irresistible.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a bit on top for a decadent twist; the salty-sweet combination enhances the richness of the brown butter flavor.
Warm Apple Cider: Enjoy this comforting drink alongside your cookies for a full fall experience, with hints of spice echoing the flavors in every cookie.
Pecan Pie Bars: For a delightful dessert table, serve these alongside your cookies; the nutty, rich flavors complement each other beautifully.

The right accompaniments can transform a simple indulgence into a warm gathering; your kitchen will be the heart of memorable moments shared with loved ones.

Expert Tips for Maple Pecan Cookies

Brown Butter Mastery: Keep stirring the butter as it melts to achieve an even brown color and avoid burning, enhancing the nuttiness in your cookies.

Chill Time is Key: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough for 1-2 hours prevents the Maple Pecan Cookies from spreading too much, ensuring they maintain their shape.

Pecan Toasting Precaution: Watch the pecans closely while toasting. They should become fragrant and lightly golden—burnt pecans can ruin the flavor of your cookies.

Perfect Baking Time: Bake until the edges are golden and the center is still soft. Overbaking will lead to crunchy cookies instead of the desired chewy texture.

Glaze it Right: When drizzling the glaze, make sure the cookies are completely cooled to prevent it from melting off. This adds a lovely finishing touch to your Maple Pecan Cookies with Brown Butter.

Proper Storage for Maple Pecan Cookies with Brown Butter

Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture.

Fridge: If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate the cookies, but they might lose some of their chewy goodness. Aim to consume them within a week.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This revives their delightful chewiness!

Maple Pecan Cookies with Brown Butter Recipe FAQs

What type of pecans should I use?
You can use either raw or roasted pecans for your Maple Pecan Cookies, but I recommend toasting them first. Toasting enhances their natural flavor, giving a deeper crunch. Simply heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until they’re fragrant and slightly golden.

How should I store these cookies?
To keep your Maple Pecan Cookies deliciously chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate them for about a week, but be mindful that refrigeration can impact texture.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Portion the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just let them thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to warm dough or not chilling it long enough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 1-2 hours before baking. Additionally, ensure your baking soda is fresh, as expired leaveners can affect cookie structure.

Are these cookies safe for pets?
Maple Pecan Cookies contain ingredients like nuts and sugar that aren’t safe for pets, especially dogs. Be sure to keep any leftovers out of reach from furry friends to prevent any potential health issues.

What happens if I use gluten-free flour?
If you opt for gluten-free flour, your Maple Pecan Cookies may turn out slightly different in texture. I recommend using a gluten-free blend that contains xanthan gum to help maintain structure and chewiness. Just keep in mind that the flavor and overall texture might vary a bit from the traditional recipe.