Maple Pecan Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that perfectly captures the cozy warmth of fall with a delightful crunch, you have to try these Maple Pecan Cookies. They combine the rich, buttery flavor of pecans with the deep, sweet notes of pure maple syrup, creating a treat that’s both comforting and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re enjoying these cookies with a cup of coffee on a crisp morning or sharing them at a holiday gathering, these Maple Pecan Cookies bring a little bit of magic to every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but each plays a key role in making the perfect Maple Pecan Cookies: from the buttery base and sweet maple syrup to the crunchy pecans and smooth icing. Together, they create that iconic flavor and texture you’ll fall in love with.

• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Provides the rich, creamy base that makes these cookies soft and tender.
• Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds moisture and deep caramel notes that perfectly complement the maple syrup.
• Egg (1): Binds everything together and contributes to a soft cookie texture.
• Pure maple syrup (1/4 cup): Gives that distinct maple sweetness that defines the recipe.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Pure maple extract (1 tsp): Boosts that maple punch without adding extra liquid.
• Flour (1 3/4 cups): The foundation that holds the cookies’ shape and structure.
• Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps the cookies rise just enough, keeping them soft.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
• Chopped pecans (1 cup): Adds a buttery crunch and nutty depth.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 tbsp, softened): For the maple icing to add richness and smoothness.
• Pure maple syrup (2-3 tbsp): Sweetens and flavors the icing perfectly.
• Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, sifted): Creates a smooth, drizzle-ready icing.
• Salt (a pinch): A tiny touch to perfect the icing’s balance.

How to Make Maple Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the softened butter and packed brown sugar together for a few minutes until the mixture looks light and creamy. This step is crucial because it creates air pockets for fluffier cookies and melds the deep molasses flavor of the brown sugar right into the butter.

Step 2: Mix in the Wet Ingredients

Next, add the egg, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and maple extract. Stir everything until perfectly combined, making sure each ingredient is fully incorporated to create a smooth, sweet batter loaded with maple aroma.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, blend the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly mix these dry ingredients into the wet bowl on low speed. This gentle mixing helps keep the dough soft while ensuring all the baking essentials are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Fold in the Pecans

Time to add that crunchy goodness! Fold in the chopped pecans carefully so they’re scattered throughout the dough without breaking up. These nuts provide a wonderful texture contrast that makes every bite interesting.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and pop it into the fridge for at least an hour, or overnight if you have the time. Chilling not only firms up the dough, making it easier to shape, but also lets the flavors deepen and marry beautifully.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone liner. Scoop out the dough into 2-tablespoon portions, roll each into a smooth ball, and place them spaced out on your pan. Bake for 10 to 14 minutes until edges are golden, and middles look just set — you want them soft, not overdone.

Step 7: Prepare and Drizzle the Maple Icing

While the cookies cool, whisk together softened butter, maple syrup, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt to create a luscious maple icing. Add a bit of milk or half and half if the icing is too thick, or extra powdered sugar if too runny. Drizzle this over cooled cookies, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle finely diced pecans on top for an extra touch of elegance.

How to Serve Maple Pecan Cookies

Garnishes

To elevate your Maple Pecan Cookies, consider sprinkling some toasted pecan pieces on the icing once it’s set. A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top can also enhance the sweet-salty balance and make each bite pop with flavor.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair perfectly with a steaming mug of coffee, spiced chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk. If you’re serving them as a dessert, try alongside vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting presentation, arrange your Maple Pecan Cookies on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra chopped pecans and maple syrup for dipping. You could also package them in cute cellophane bags tied with twine, making them lovely homemade gifts for friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Maple Pecan Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and flavorful for up to a week — perfect for enjoying over several cozy mornings or sharing over the weekend.

Freezing

If you’d like to save some for later, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls or the fully baked cookies. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. Frozen cookies or dough last up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked warmth, pop your Maple Pecan Cookies in a 300-degree oven for 5 minutes or microwave briefly for about 10 seconds. This gentle warmth brings back the soft texture and reactivates the maple aroma wonderfully.

FAQs

Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of maple extract?

Absolutely! While pure maple extract enhances the unique maple flavor, regular vanilla extract will still provide a lovely taste. You might just get a slightly milder maple note.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

These Maple Pecan Cookies are not gluten-free as the recipe calls for all-purpose flour. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends to adapt them, though texture might vary.

How crunchy do the pecans stay after baking?

The chopped pecans stay delightfully crunchy, providing a satisfying contrast to the soft, chewy cookie base. For extra crunch, lightly toast the pecans before folding them into the dough.

Can I make these cookies without the icing?

Yes! The cookies are delicious on their own with the maple and pecan flavors shining through. The icing adds sweetness and visual appeal but isn’t absolutely necessary.

What’s the best way to get soft cookies?

Don’t overbake! Pull the cookies from the oven once the edges are golden and the centers are just set to keep them tender. Also, chilling the dough helps maintain softness during baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these Maple Pecan Cookies as I am. They truly capture the spirit of cozy gatherings and sweet moments, wrapped up in the warm flavors of maple and nuts. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly they disappear — trust me, these cookies are destined to become a favorite in your baking rotation!

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