Perfect Maple Pecan Cookies Recipe with Easy Icing

Introduction

The aroma of maple syrup mingling with toasted pecans wafted through my kitchen the first time I made these cookies, and let me tell you—it was pure magic. Sweet, nutty, and buttery, these maple pecan cookies are the kind of treat that makes you stop mid-bite just to enjoy the moment. I still remember the look on my family’s faces when they took their first bite, eyes wide with delight before going back for seconds (and thirds!).

These cookies were born out of a desire to recreate the flavors of fall in every bite. Years ago, I spent a crisp autumn afternoon at a local fair, indulging in maple candies and pecan pralines. That nostalgic combination stuck with me, and after experimenting in the kitchen, this recipe became my go-to for cozy gatherings and gifting. Honestly, I wish I’d discovered this recipe years earlier—it’s that good.

Perfect for potlucks, holiday baking, or as a sweet surprise for loved ones, these cookies have quickly become a staple in my home. The best part is the icing—light, sweet, and infused with maple flavor, it’s the perfect finishing touch. You’ll want to bookmark this one because these cookies are going to feel like a warm hug in cookie form every time you bake them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute baking sessions.
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry—no fancy shopping required!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s fall, winter holidays, or just a random Tuesday, these cookies are always a hit.
• Crowd-Pleaser: From kids to adults, everyone loves the combination of maple, pecans, and icing.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The buttery cookie base combined with crunchy pecans and sweet maple icing creates a flavor explosion you won’t forget.

What sets these maple pecan cookies apart is their incredible balance—sweet, nutty, and just the right hint of maple without being overpowering. The easy icing adds a delightful touch and makes them look absolutely irresistible. Plus, there’s no need for fancy techniques or equipment; anyone can master this recipe on their first try.

And let’s be real—there’s something so comforting about homemade cookies. They’re the kind of treat that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles all around.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
• Brown sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel sweetness.
• Granulated sugar: Helps create the perfect cookie texture.
• Egg: Provides structure and richness.
• Pure maple syrup: The star ingredient! Choose high-quality syrup for the best flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the maple flavor beautifully.
• All-purpose flour: Provides the base for the cookies. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour.
• Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly while keeping them chewy.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Pecans: Toasted and chopped for a nutty crunch.
• Powdered sugar: Used for the icing; creates a smooth, sweet finish.
• Milk: To thin out the icing; use any type you prefer.

Optional substitutions: Swap pecans for walnuts if preferred, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free icing. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon to the cookie dough for extra warmth.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to make these cookies, which is part of what makes them so wonderfully simple. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls: One for wet ingredients and one for dry ingredients.
• Electric mixer: A hand or stand mixer works great for creaming the butter and sugars.
• Spatula: For folding in the pecans.
• Baking sheets: Line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Cooling racks: Essential for letting the cookies cool completely before icing.
• Small whisk: Handy for mixing up the icing.

If you don’t have an electric mixer, a sturdy wooden spoon works just fine—it’ll give you an arm workout, but it’s worth it!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (227g) of softened unsalted butter, 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, and 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes.
3. Beat in 1 large egg, 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. Fold in 1 cup (120g) toasted and chopped pecans using a spatula.
7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. The centers will look soft—don’t overbake!
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to cooling racks.
10. While the cookies cool, prepare the icing: In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk, and 1 tablespoon (15ml) pure maple syrup until smooth.
11. Drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies or use a piping bag if you’re feeling fancy. Let the icing set for 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to ensure your maple pecan cookies turn out perfectly:

• Don’t skip toasting the pecans: This step enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch. Toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
• Use high-quality maple syrup: The flavor really shines in this recipe, so opt for pure syrup instead of imitation varieties.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden.
• Adjust icing consistency: If the icing is too thick, add a splash more milk; if it’s too thin, add extra powdered sugar.
• Chill the dough if needed: If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the dough for 15 minutes to prevent spreading.

Remember, baking is an art and a science—trust your instincts and enjoy the process!

Variations & Adaptations

These cookies are versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend or almond flour.
• Seasonal Twist: Add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired flavor.
• Nut-Free: Swap out pecans for dried cranberries or chocolate chips to make the cookies allergen-friendly.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and coconut milk in place of regular butter and milk.

One variation I’ve tried is adding orange zest to the icing—it adds a bright citrus note that pairs beautifully with the maple and pecans.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These cookies are best served at room temperature, with a cup of coffee or tea on the side. For a festive touch, arrange them on a platter and sprinkle a few extra toasted pecans around for decoration.

To store, place the cookies in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and drizzle with fresh icing, if desired.

Reheat cookies in the microwave for 10 seconds to restore their soft, chewy texture (but skip reheating if they’re already iced).

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrients in these maple pecan cookies:

• Calories: 150 per cookie
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g

Pecans are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, while maple syrup provides a natural sweetness. Keep in mind these cookies contain allergens like nuts, dairy, and gluten, so adapt as needed for dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and bound to impress, these maple pecan cookies are for you. The combination of buttery cookies, crunchy pecans, and sweet maple icing is a match made in heaven.

Feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your taste—add a sprinkle of sea salt, switch up the nuts, or experiment with different icing flavors. I love making these cookies because they bring people together—and isn’t that what baking is all about?

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out! Share your creations in the comments below, or tag me on social media. Happy baking!

FAQs

1. Can I use honey instead of maple syrup? While honey has a different flavor profile, it can be used as a substitute for maple syrup in this recipe.
2. Do I have to toast the pecans? Toasting is optional, but it enhances the flavor and texture of the cookies.
3. Can I freeze the cookie dough? Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
4. How do I prevent the icing from running? Make sure the cookies are completely cooled before icing them, and adjust the icing consistency if needed.
5. What’s the best way to store these cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

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