Are you craving a warm, comforting treat that's both easy to make and utterly irresistible? Then look no further! These maple pecan cookies are the perfect answer. Bursting with the rich flavor of maple syrup and the satisfying crunch of pecans, these cookies are a delightful homemade dessert, perfect for any occasion – or just a cozy night in. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, promising delicious results every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecan halves
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Cream Together: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. A stand mixer or hand mixer works perfectly for this step. Make sure the butter is truly softened for optimal creaming.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
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Gradually Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
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Stir in Pecans & Maple Syrup: Stir in the pecan halves and maple syrup until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
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Scoop & Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as ovens can vary.
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Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Resist the urge to eat them warm; they’re even better once cooled!
Tips for the Best Maple Pecan Cookies:
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of these cookies is heavily reliant on the quality of your maple syrup and pecans. Invest in good quality ingredients for the best results.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the dough (optional): For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This also helps prevent spreading.
- Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the cookies before baking adds a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
- Use different nuts: Walnuts, almonds, or a mix of nuts can be substituted for pecans.
- Add chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips would be a delicious addition.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on size and ingredients)
- Fat: 8-10g
- Sugar: 15-20g
These maple pecan cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their simple yet sophisticated flavor profile makes them perfect for gifting, sharing, or simply enjoying a sweet treat all by yourself. They're a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals, offering a delicious and satisfying alternative to store-bought cookies. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!