Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe

Imagine biting into a cookie that’s perfectly soft and chewy, kissed with rich maple syrup and caramel notes from dark brown sugar, then finished with a glossy ribbon of salted maple icing. That’s the magic of these Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies—a cozy classic reinvented, and absolutely irresistible with your favorite cup of coffee or tea.

Why You Should Make This Recipe

• Ultimate Chewy Texture: These cookies are thick and delightfully chewy, with a crispy edge that makes every bite satisfying.
• Buttery Maple-Caramel Flavor: The browned butter and pure maple syrup join forces to create deep, warm flavors that truly stand out.
• Easy, No-Fuss Prep: No fancy equipment or chilling required—just straightforward steps for fabulous results.
• Perfect for Sharing: The combination of comforting maple and brown sugar makes these cookies a crowd-pleaser for the holidays, bake sales, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients & Substitutions

The beauty of these Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies is just how simple—but thoughtfully chosen—the ingredients are. Every element has a purpose, working together for the dreamiest texture and a flavor that’s truly unforgettable.

• Unsalted Butter: Browning the butter adds nutty depth and a toffee-like aroma that sets these cookies apart—use plant-based butter if you’re dairy-free.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides just the right structure; for gluten-free baking, substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder: This duo ensures the perfect rise and that signature soft bite.
• Ground Cinnamon: A pinch warmly enhances the cookie’s maple notes without overpowering them.
• Salt: Brings out every nuanced flavor in both the dough and the icing—don’t skip!
• Dark Brown Sugar: Gives each cookie an irresistible, almost butterscotch chewiness.
• Pure Maple Syrup: The star of the show—opt for real maple syrup for the best flavor, but in a pinch, high-quality pancake syrup works, too.
• Egg: Adds richness, binding everything together into a luscious dough.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the sweetness with classic vanilla warmth—don’t settle for imitation.
• Powdered Sugar: Forms the silky-smooth base of the icing, dissolving easily for a drizzle-friendly consistency.

How to Make Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Start by melting the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently and constantly as it foams and sizzles—soon, golden brown bits will form and a heavenly, nutty aroma will fill your kitchen. As soon as the butter is browned, pour it into a large mixing bowl immediately to prevent burning; set aside to cool down until it’s at room temperature but still liquid. This step is crucial for imparting that signature toasty depth to your Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

While the brown butter cools, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. This keeps the leaveners evenly distributed and ensures a uniform rise and crumb in every bite.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

To your cooled brown butter, add the dark brown sugar and whisk until incorporated (don’t worry if it looks grainy). Next, mix in the pure maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is glossy and smooth—this will build the foundation for that unbeatable chewy texture.

Step 4: Make the Cookie Dough

Add your flour mixture to the wet mixture and fold just until there are no more streaks of flour. Be careful not to over-mix; this keeps your Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies tender and soft.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Using a large cookie scoop, portion the dough into 12 balls, arranging them a few inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake, one sheet at a time in the center rack, for 10 to 12 minutes—pull them when the edges are golden and the centers look just set for the perfect chewy finish.

Step 6: Ice the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled on a wire rack, whisk together the powdered sugar, pinch of salt, and maple syrup for the salted maple icing. Adjust with extra powdered sugar or a splash of water for your preferred consistency, then drizzle generously over each cookie. Let them set slightly before serving (if you can wait that long!).

How to Serve Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Garnishes

For an extra-special touch, sprinkle the freshly iced cookies with a tiny bit of flaky sea salt, a dusting of ground cinnamon, or even some festive maple sugar crystals. These easy garnishes add wonderful texture and visual flair to your Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cozy mug of chai, creamy hot chocolate, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert plate. They also shine alongside a crisp fall fruit salad or as a sweet treat on any afternoon snacking platter.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the cookies in a rustic bakery box tied with twine for edible gifting, or arrange them on a tiered tray with fresh autumn leaves for an inviting holiday centerpiece. For parties, break cookies into halves or quarters and serve them in mini cupcake liners for easy sharing and sampling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature—they’ll stay soft and chewy for up to four days, making them perfect for make-ahead treats or lunchbox surprises.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Once cooled and iced, arrange them in layers between parchment in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature and the Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies will taste just as delicious as day one.

Reheating

If you love warm cookies, pop a cookie (or two!) in the microwave for about 10 seconds or briefly in a low oven until just soft—the icing will melt a little, but the molasses richness and maple flavor become even cozier.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about pulling a tray of Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies from the oven—the aroma fills your kitchen, and each bite is like a warm hug. If you’re craving a cookie that’s nostalgic yet just a little extra, this recipe is sure to find a beloved spot in your rotation. Happy baking, and don’t forget to save a few for yourself!

Print