Maple Pecan Cookies With Brown Butter Recipe

Did you know that cookies are one of the most popular baked goods in America, with over 7 billion consumed each year? Maple pecan cookies with brown butter are a delicious twist on traditional favorites, blending rich flavors in every bite. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for any occasion. Want to know how to make these delightful cookies? Let’s explore the details that will elevate your baking skills.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you bake Maple Pecan Cookies, you’ll discover a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them truly special.

The use of brown butter enhances the cookies, giving them a warm, toasty flavor that pairs beautifully with the maple syrup and toasted pecans. The combination of maple, brown butter, and pecans creates an exceptional taste experience that is hard to resist.

You’ll appreciate the soft, sandy texture that brown butter creates, making each bite feel luxurious. This recipe is straightforward, allowing you to focus on enjoying the process.

Perfect for holiday gatherings, these cookies stand out due to their unique taste and elegant appearance. Plus, they’re easy to share with friends and family, making them a great addition to any cookie platter.

You’ll love how these cookies elevate your baking game effortlessly.

History

The history of maple pecan cookies is rooted in the rich traditions of both maple syrup and pecans.

Pecans were first used by Native American tribes, who valued them for nourishment and cultural significance. European settlers recognized their potential, cultivating them in the southeastern United States. Meanwhile, indigenous peoples in Canada developed maple syrup production methods, using simple tools to create the sweet syrup that’s commonly recognized today. As cookie recipes evolved, the combination of these two ingredients emerged, inspired by the beloved pecan pie. This dessert not only reflects regional flavors but also symbolizes community and family traditions, weaving a story of cultural exchange that continues to thrive in Southern kitchens and beyond. The cookies are often made with pure maple syrup, enhancing their delicious flavor and making them a favorite among maple lovers.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)

Cooking Instructions:

Begin by browning the butter. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and develops brown specks.
Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
While the butter cools, toast the chopped pecans. In a skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re fragrant and darkened. Set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter with brown sugar, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Gently fold in the toasted pecans.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide the cookie dough into portions and shape them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 11-12 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cookies cool, prepare the maple glaze by whisking together maple syrup and powdered sugar until smooth. Once the cookies are cool, drizzle or spoon the glaze over each cookie.
Optionally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt or other toppings.

Extra Tips:
For the best results, make sure to keep an eye on the browned butter as it can quickly go from perfect to burnt. Additionally, if you prefer a more intense maple flavor, consider using maple extract in place of vanilla extract. Storing the cookies in an airtight container will help maintain their freshness, and they can be enjoyed for days after baking. The addition of brown butter enhances the rich flavor of the Maple Pecan Cookies, making them a delightful treat.

Final Thoughts

As you wrap up your baking session, it’s important to contemplate how these maple pecan cookies can fit into your dessert repertoire. Their nutty flavor and shortbread-like texture make them a delightful treat for various occasions. Consider experimenting with different ingredients, like using maple extract or varying the types of nuts. You can even add a maple glaze for extra sweetness. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as an alternative to traditional pies. Remember to toast your pecans and chill the dough for the best results. Additionally, keep in mind that these cookies contain 130 calories each, making them a satisfying yet indulgent treat. With their rich flavor profile, these cookies can quickly become a favorite. So, whether for yourself or to share, enjoy the delicious outcome of your baking efforts.

FAQ

Have questions about making maple pecan cookies? First, make certain you brown your butter properly; heat it until it foams and turns golden with a nutty aroma.

When toasting pecans, stir frequently in a dry skillet to avoid burning. Chopped chocolate baking bars are recommended for best results in your cookie dough, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.

After cooling the brown butter, mix it with sugar, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla, then fold in the flour and toasted pecans.

For baking, preheat your oven to either 350°F for a chewier texture or 400°F for a crispier one. Bake for 11-12 minutes or 8-10 minutes, respectively.

If you want to glaze your cookies, whisk maple syrup and powdered sugar until smooth.