Name: Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies That Feel Like Fall
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 147 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter (softened); 0.5 cups Granulated Sugar; 1 cups Dark Brown Sugar (packed); 1 large Egg; 0.25 cups Real Maple Syrup (Grade A Dark or Amber); 1.75 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 0.5 teaspoon Baking Soda; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1 cups Powdered Sugar

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, the scent of sweet baking fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist the allure of homemade treats. I often find myself searching for the perfect recipe that captures the essence of fall—these Soft Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies do just that! Combining the deep flavors of dark brown sugar and pure maple syrup, they are soft in the center with a gently crisp edge. Not only are they a fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving spread, but they are also easy to prepare ahead of time, so you can focus on making memories with family. These cookies are a delightful way to embrace the season—are you ready to make your kitchen smell like autumn bliss?

Why Are Maple Brown Sugar Cookies So Special?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich dark brown sugar and real maple syrup creates an unparalleled taste that oozes comfort and warmth.

Simple Preparation: With a straightforward method, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels. Just mix, chill, shape, and bake!

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These cookies are sure to impress at any gathering, making them an exceptional choice for Thanksgiving celebrations. Pair them with a warm beverage for a delightful experience!

Versatile Enjoyment: They store beautifully for days, so you can whip up a batch ahead of time or enjoy them fresh out of the oven. Try them with a glass of milk or alongside a cup of coffee for a scrumptious snack.

Perfect Seasonal Addition: Their cozy flavors make them an ideal fit for fall festivities, adding a festive touch to your dessert table. For more delightful treats, check out our Fudgy Brownies Indulge!

Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened to cream well.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a delightful crisp texture.
Dark Brown Sugar – Infuses the cookies with deep, rich flavor; essential for that classic chewy texture.
Egg – Acts as a binder to keep the cookies puffed and moist.
Real Maple Syrup (Grade A Dark or Amber) – Essential for the signature maple flavor; opt for darker syrup for added richness.

For the Dry Ingredients

All-Purpose Flour – Supplies structure; measure carefully to prevent dry cookies.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These leavening agents work together to achieve a perfect rise.
Salt – Balances and enhances the overall taste of the cookies.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and complements the maple flavors beautifully.

For the Coating

Powdered Sugar – Used for rolling the cookies; adds sweetness and creates that charming crinkle effect.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of dark brown sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This process should take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Then, mix in 1 egg, ¼ cup of real maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Ensure the mixture is well combined to prevent clumps, as this will create a smoother dough for your Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two batches, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender. You want to see a homogenous dough forming, free from any visible flour, which means you’re almost ready to chill the dough!

Step 4: Chill Dough
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight. Chilling is crucial for the perfect texture and helps the flavors meld beautifully. When you return, the dough should be firm to the touch, making it easier to shape into cookies.

Step 5: Preheat Oven & Shape Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. While the oven heats, roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. First, coat each ball in granulated sugar, then roll them in powdered sugar for a sweet and lovely crinkle effect.

Step 6: Bake
Place the shaped cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. They are ready when the tops have cracked but the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked, giving that signature chewy texture.

Step 7: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time lets the cookies set up perfectly. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, and watch as they continue to deepen in flavor.

Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies Variations

Feel free to make these delightful cookies your own with a few simple tweaks that will elevate the flavor and texture!

Light Brown Sugar: Swap dark brown sugar for light to create a milder, sweeter flavor profile. This adjustment allows the maple syrup to shine even brighter!
Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for added crunch and depth. The pleasant nutty flavor complements the sweetness beautifully.
Cinnamon Roll Style: Roll the dough out and spread a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before rolling it up. Slice and bake for a cinnamon roll-inspired treat that is just as cozy.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Add in chocolate chips or chunks for a rich chocolate-maple combo. The melty chocolate creates an indulgent experience within each bite.
Maple Pecan Variation: Switch half of the flour with finely ground pecans for a nutty, textured cookie. Not only does it enhance flavor, but it also adds a delightful crunch!
Spicy Kick: For a warm spiciness, substitute half of the ground cinnamon with ground ginger or nutmeg. This twist adds a new layer of flavor, making the cookies even more inviting.
Pumpkin Spice Upgrade: Mix in a tablespoon of pumpkin spice for an autumnal twist that complements the flavors of fall. It’s perfect for those pumpkin spice enthusiasts!
Dipped in Chocolate: After baking and cooling, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for an extra decadent finish! This creates a delightful contrast with the powdered sugar.

These variations are not only fun to try but can turn your Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies into a unique holiday treat that everyone will love. Don’t forget to pair them with a glass of milk, or maybe a cup of coffee, just like you would when enjoying Fudgy Brownies Indulge! For more sweet moments, consider adding our Patriotic Star Brownies to your festive dessert table!

Make Ahead Options

These Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to prevent drying out. If you’re planning even further ahead, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful cookies, roll the chilled or thawed dough into balls, coat them in sugar, and bake as directed to achieve that chewy, soft interior with a crinkly exterior that everyone loves. Trust me, these cookies will taste just as delicious as if they were freshly made!

Expert Tips for Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies

Chill the Dough: Always chill the dough for at least 2 hours to ensure your cookies achieve that perfect crinkle and chewy texture. Don’t skip this step!
Perfect Baking Time: Remove the cookies when the tops are visibly cracked but still pale to maintain that soft center. They shouldn’t be too brown at the edges.
Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for real maple syrup and dark brown sugar. These ingredients are key to the deep, rich flavor of your Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies.
Measuring Flour: Spoon and level your flour for accurate measurement. This little trick can prevent dense cookies, keeping them light and fluffy.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix only until the dry and wet ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle!

What to Serve with Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies?

Indulging in freshly baked cookies doesn’t have to be a solitary experience—create a delightful spread that enhances their warm, comforting flavors!

Coffee or Espresso: The rich bitterness of coffee elevates the sweet maple notes, making for a perfect afternoon treat.
Warm Milk: Its creamy texture complements the cookies wonderfully, providing a nostalgic and cozy pairing for all ages.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the fall spirit with this seasonal favorite. The spiced flavors harmonize beautifully with the cookies’ maple essence.
Apple Cider: Enjoy it hot or cold! The fruity tartness cuts through the sweetness, creating a delightful contrast with the cookies.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Drizzle a bit over each cookie for a rich, decadent experience that takes your treat to the next level.
Vanilla Ice Cream Scoop: A warm cookie topped with a scoop of ice cream creates an irresistible dessert experience, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Pecan Pie: Bring in that beloved holiday flavor profile; the nuttiness pairs well with the cookies while offering a deliciously festive touch.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this over your cookies brings added sweetness and a gooey texture that enhances each bite.
Fruit Platter: Fresh slices of pear or apples add a light, refreshing counterpoint to the richer cookie flavors, bringing balance to your dessert spread.

How to Store and Freeze Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and delicious, perfect for enjoying with family and friends.

Fridge: If you want to prolong freshness, these cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 month!

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply pop cookies in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. This will revive that delicious soft center we all love in Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies.

Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best maple syrup for these cookies?
Absolutely! For making the best Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies, I recommend using Grade A Dark or Amber maple syrup. The darker syrup has a richer flavor, which enhances the overall taste of the cookies. Look for pure maple syrup—avoid imitation syrups as they often contain additives.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
The more the merrier! Store your Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, just remember to keep them sealed tight to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find that your dough is too sticky to handle, don’t panic! This can happen if the butter isn’t softened properly or if too much moisture was added. Simply sprinkle a little extra all-purpose flour into the dough, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until you achieve a manageable consistency. Chilling the dough also helps firm it up and make it easier to shape.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes! The Maple Brown Sugar Crinkle Cookies are nut-free as written, making them a safe option for those with nut allergies. However, always double-check the ingredients you use, especially the flour and baking powder, to ensure there are no cross-contaminants.

Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Very! You can substitute light brown sugar for dark brown sugar in these cookies, but keep in mind that it will yield a milder flavor and a slightly different texture. For that rich, deep taste that pairs perfectly with maple syrup, I encourage you to stick with dark brown sugar if you can!