Maple Pecan Cookies

"Soft, buttery cookies with the rich flavor of maple syrup and a delightful crunch of toasted pecans, perfect for any cozy gathering or sweet craving."

Yield

Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon pure maple extract (optional, for deeper flavor)
• 1 cup chopped toasted pecans

For the Maple Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream (adjust for consistency)
• 1/4 cup pecan halves (for garnish) (or you an used chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the maple syrup, egg, vanilla extract, and maple extract (if using). Beat until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
6. Fold in the chopped toasted pecans.

Step 2: Bake the Cookies

1. Scoop the dough into 1.5-tablespoon portions and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
2. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
3. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Maple Glaze (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon of milk or cream. Add more milk as needed to achieve a drizzling consistency.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with finely chopped pecans. Let the glaze set for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Kitchen Tips

• Toasting Pecans: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):

Calories, 140 | Protein, 2g | Carbohydrates, 16g | Fiber, 1g | Net Carbohydrates, 15g | Fat, 8g | Saturated Fat, 4g | Cholesterol, 20mg | Sodium, 50mg | Sugars, 10g | Glycemic Index, Medium

"Soft and buttery Maple Pecan Cookies with toasted pecans and a hint of maple syrup. Perfectly sweet, nutty, and great for any cozy gathering!"