Irresistible Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

There’s something magical about the rich, nutty aroma of brown butter wafting through your kitchen. Pair that with the sweet embrace of maple syrup, and you have a cookie that doesn’t just satisfy a sweet tooth; it tells a story. Peanut Butter Blossoms recipe These Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies are not only adorable but also pack a punch of flavor that dances on your taste buds.

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Imagine cozying up on a chilly evening, with these delightful bear-shaped cookies fresh out of the oven. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering warm notes of caramelized butter and sweet maple goodness. Baked Brie with Cranberries Whether you’re sharing them at a family gathering or indulging solo during a Netflix binge, these cookies promise to elevate any occasion.

My kids once tried to name every cookie they decorated with icing, and let me tell you, those bears had some wild names. I still chuckle when I think of “Sir Fluffypaws” and “Crunchy McNibbles,” which made our baking day unforgettable.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor; brown it until it turns golden and nutty.
• Maple Syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup for authentic sweetness; it makes all the difference in taste.
• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the cookie base; sift it to avoid clumps and ensure even mixing.
• Powdered Sugar: This adds sweetness and lightness; measure carefully for the right texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for depth; always adds a warm fragrance to your cookies.
• Salt: A pinch balances sweetness; don’t skip it—your taste buds will thank you!
• Baking Powder: Just a touch helps the cookies rise slightly for that perfect shortbread texture.
• Chocolate Chips (optional): Add semi-sweet chips for extra richness; they’re like little surprises in each bite!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking; this step is crucial unless you enjoy cleaning up sticky messes later.

Browning the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it bubbles and turns golden brown. Stir constantly to prevent burning—this is where the magic happens! The nutty aroma will fill your kitchen.

Mixing Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt. The dry ingredients should be well combined before adding wet ones to ensure even distribution.

Combining Ingredients: Pour the browned butter into your dry ingredients along with maple syrup and vanilla extract. Mix until everything comes together into a cohesive dough—it should feel slightly sticky but manageable.

Shaping Cookies: Roll out portions of dough on a floured surface until about half an inch thick. Use bear-shaped cookie cutters to create adorable little critters. Place them on prepared baking sheets about an inch apart—these bears need space! For more inspiration, check out this Thick and Chewy Cookies recipe.

Baking Time: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden. Keep an eye on them—the last thing you want is burnt bears! Let them cool slightly on the baking sheets before transferring them to wire racks.

Enjoy these Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies warm or cooled! Drizzle some extra maple syrup over them if you’re feeling indulgent—because why not? For more inspiration, check out this Orange Custard Squares recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the butter until it’s a beautiful golden hue, then chill it before mixing with sugar. This sequence ensures the best flavor and cookie texture.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding chocolate chips or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra flavor. You can also swap in different extracts like almond or vanilla for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To refresh them, pop them in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.

Baking these cookies brings back memories of holiday gatherings, where laughter and sweet aromas filled the air as friends dove into my cookie jar—sugar-induced giggles guaranteed!

FAQ

What makes brown butter special in cookies?

Brown butter adds depth and nuttiness, enhancing the overall flavor of your cookies.

Can I freeze Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months in an airtight container.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Cookies are done when they turn lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Soft Christmas Peppermints. Christmas Festive Trifle recipe.

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Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

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• Author: Emma Taylor
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with the sweetness of pure maple syrup. These adorable bear-shaped cookies melt in your mouth and are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo. Easy to make and visually appealing, they are sure to impress everyone from kids to adults. Indulge in these tasty cookies that capture the essence of cozy baking moments!

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter, browned
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until golden brown, stirring constantly.
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine browned butter with dry ingredients along with maple syrup and vanilla extract; mix until a cohesive dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/2 inch thick and cut into bear shapes using cookie cutters. Place on prepared sheets an inch apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool slightly before transferring to wire racks.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie - approx. 30g
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 20mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg