Maple Pecan Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that’s both unique and packed with flavor, look no further than these Maple Pecan Cookies. With the warm, rich sweetness of maple syrup and the nutty crunch of pecans, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday gathering, a cozy night in, or a delightful gift for friends. Soft in the middle with a slightly crisp edge, these cookies offer a comforting taste that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Maple Pecan Cookies are an ideal choice for anyone who loves the combination of sweet and nutty flavors. They’re easy to make, require simple ingredients, and can be enjoyed with or without the optional cream cheese icing. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, making it a great choice for any skill level.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients needed to create these delicious cookies:

Cookie Dough:

• 2½ cups (312.5 g) all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and base of the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• ¾ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with a slightly sweet and nutty taste.
• ½ cup (113.5 g) unsalted butter, room temperature: Adds richness and a tender texture.
• 1 cup (200 g) dark brown sugar, packed: Gives the cookies a deep, caramel-like sweetness. Light brown sugar works too.
• 1 large egg, room temperature: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• ½ cup (118.29 ml) pure maple syrup: The star ingredient that infuses the cookies with a delightful maple flavor.
• 1½ cups (163.5 g) chopped pecans: Adds a nutty crunch to every bite.

Cream Cheese Icing (Optional):

• 1 tablespoon cream cheese, room temperature: Creates a creamy base for the icing.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, room temperature: Adds richness and smoothness.
• 1 tablespoon milk: Thins the icing to the perfect consistency for drizzling.
• ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar: Sweetens and helps the icing set.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make these cookies, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Cooling rack
• Large cookie scoop or tablespoon

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set this dry mixture aside.

In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and dark brown sugar using a stand mixer or hand mixer for about 1-2 minutes, until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and mix until fully incorporated. Gradually mix in the pure maple syrup until well combined.

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until the flour streaks are almost gone. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is well incorporated. Fold in the chopped pecans by hand to avoid overmixing the dough.

2. Shape and Bake the Cookies

Using a large cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 3 inches apart to allow for spreading.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will still look slightly gooey—this is normal! The cookies will continue to cook slightly on the hot baking sheet after being removed from the oven, resulting in a soft, chewy texture.

If you prefer perfectly round cookies, use a round object like a sifter or biscuit cutter to gently shape them while they’re still hot. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing (Optional)

In a small bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and milk, mixing until the icing is smooth and of a drizzling consistency.

Drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies or dip them for a more indulgent treat.

Tips for Perfect Maple Pecan Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Space the Cookies Apart: Leave enough space between the cookies on the baking sheet to allow them to spread evenly.
• Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies during the last few minutes of baking. They should be set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking: The cookies will firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking them in the oven.
• Incorrect Measuring of Ingredients: For the best results, measure ingredients accurately, particularly flour, which should be spooned into the measuring cup and leveled off.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes is crucial for them to set properly before transferring to a rack.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve these Maple Pecan Cookies on a decorative plate with a drizzle of cream cheese icing for a beautiful presentation. For a festive touch, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top or add a few whole pecans.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a richer flavor, add ½ cup of dark or milk chocolate chips to the dough.
• Swap Pecans for Walnuts: Use walnuts instead of pecans for a different nutty flavor.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

How to Store Maple Pecan Cookies

• At Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• In the Refrigerator: If you prefer a longer shelf life, store them in the fridge for up to 10 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the dough balls and bake them directly from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.

Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Q: What other nuts can I use instead of pecans?
A: Walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts make great substitutes in this recipe.

Pairings for Maple Pecan Cookies

Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk for a comforting and delicious treat.

Conclusion

Give these Maple Pecan Cookies a try for your next baking adventure! They’re easy to make, deliciously unique, and perfect for sharing. Don’t forget to leave a comment below with your experience or any creative twists you tried. And be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delightful recipes!

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