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If you're a new elf parent, find out everything you need to know about the Elf on the Shelf tradition this holiday season.
Read More October 26, 2023 | Blain's Farm & FleetEasy Maple Pecan Cookies Recipe
The holiday season is the perfect time to experiment with new recipes and add a bit of sweetness to your celebrations. If you’re looking for a cookie that combines the richness of maple syrup with the crunch of pecans, Maple Pecan Drops are an excellent choice. These cookies are not only delicious but also simple to bake, making them an ideal addition to your Christmas baking list. Learn how to whip up a batch of these with Blain’s Farm & Fleet.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup quick-cooking oats
- 1/4 cup chopped dates
- 1/2 cup coarsely-chopped pecans, toasted
- 1/3 cup finely-chopped pecans, toasted
For the frosting:
- 4 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the Cookies:
1. Preheat your oven to 350° F. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Mix in maple syrup.
2. In separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture. Stir in oats, dates, and coarsely-chopped pecans.
3. Drop dough balls by tablespoonfuls two inches apart onto ungreased or parchment paper-lined baking sheets.
4. Bake at 350° F for 12 minutes or until cookies are golden brown. Cool for two minutes on baking sheets. Then, transfer to wire cooling racks.
5. Spread cooled cookies with maple cream cheese frosting (see recipe below). Sprinkle with finely-chopped pecans.
Makes about two dozen.
Making the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. In a small mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Beat in maple syrup.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth and spreadable.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Toasting Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds an extra crunch to your cookies. Spread them on a baking sheet, and bake at 350° F for about five to seven minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Keep It Consistent: Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for the right cookie texture.
- Even Baking: Rotate your baking sheets halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Maple Pecan Cookies are perfect on their own, but if you want to take them up a notch, consider these serving suggestions:
- Festive Platter: Arrange them on a holiday platter with other seasonal cookies for a colorful and tasty display.
- Afternoon Treat: Pair these cookies with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a warm afternoon treat.
- Gifting Idea: Pack them in decorative tins as homemade gifts for friends and family.
Maple Pecan Cookies are more than just cookies. They’re a comforting treat that bring joy to any holiday gathering. Enjoy the process of baking, and savor every bite of these delicious cookies!
For more holiday baking recipes like this one, check out our other Cooking & Recipes articles.
