Name: Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies for Cozy Moments
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.); ½ cup Pure Maple Syrup (Use honey or agave syrup as an alternative.); ¾ cup Dark Brown Sugar (Light brown sugar can be used if dark is unavailable.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use an equal amount of almond extract for a different touch.); ½ teaspoon Maple Extract (Omit if unavailable for a less pronounced flavor.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Omit if making a denser cookie.); 1 cup Chocolate Chips (Optional; use dark, milk, or white chocolate chips.); ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Increase nutmeg for a bolder flavor.); ¼ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Can substitute with additional cinnamon.); 1 pinch Salt (Best not to omit for optimal taste.)

To hear my kitchen turn into a cozy haven, all it takes is a bit of brown butter sizzling in a pan. These Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies are the perfect treat to lift your spirits and bring joy to your baking sessions. With their charming bear shapes, they’re not only a delight to the eyes but also offer irresistible flavor in every bite. Quick to whip up and elegant enough for gatherings, these cookies combine the nutty richness of brown butter with the sweet allure of maple syrup, making them a showstopper. Imagine indulging in their crisp exterior and subtly chewy center, kissed with warm spices. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply craving something homemade, these cookies will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. Ready to embark on your cookie adventure? Let’s get started!

Why are these bear cookies irresistible?

Charmingly Unique: Their adorable bear shapes not only make them fun for all ages but also invite creativity in your baking.

Nutty Goodness: The rich, nutty flavor of brown butter beautifully combines with the sweetness of maple syrup, delivering a taste experience that’s hard to resist.

Simple to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these delightful cookies without any fuss, making them perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers.

Versatile Treat: These cookies are lovely for any occasion—serve them with your favorite tea, coffee, or even on a dessert platter at gatherings.

Perfectly Balanced Texture: Enjoy a delightful contrast of a crispy edge and a tender, chewy center, ensuring every bite is satisfying!

Why not explore other sweet options too? Check out our Cosmic Brownie Cookies or try the delightful Blueberry Cookies Vegan for more inspiration!

Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookie Ingredients

• Get ready to bake these delightful treats!

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Pure Maple Syrup – Natural sweetness and flavor; use honey or agave syrup as an alternative.
Dark Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and caramel notes; light brown sugar can be used if dark is unavailable.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; use an equal amount of almond extract for a different touch.
Maple Extract – Intensifies the maple flavor; omit if unavailable, but the flavor will be less pronounced.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and bulk; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
Baking Powder – Aids in lightness and texture; omit if making a denser cookie.
Chocolate Chips – Optional for added flavor; use dark, milk, or white chocolate chips based on your preference.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; increase nutmeg for a bolder flavor.
Ground Nutmeg – Complements cinnamon and adds complexity; can substitute with additional cinnamon if needed.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; it’s best not to omit for optimal taste.

Embrace these mouthwatering ingredients for your Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies and get ready for a delightful baking adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, about 5–7 minutes. Be vigilant to avoid burning; the butter should be a deep amber color. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter, ½ cup of pure maple syrup, ¾ cup of dark brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of maple extract. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, creating a luscious base for your Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. This ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, providing the perfect balance needed for a tender cookie texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. If desired, fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for an added burst of flavor, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Transfer the cookie dough onto a piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a disk. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for about 1 hour. Chilling the dough helps to firm it up, making it easier to roll out and cut into adorable bear shapes while preventing them from losing form during baking.

Step 6: Shape & Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a bear-shaped cookie cutter to cut the dough into fun shapes, placing them on a lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 7: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the cookies to set perfectly, ready for delightful snacking with your favorite beverage.

Expert Tips for Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

Perfect Browning: Ensure the butter reaches a nutty golden color without burning; this adds depth to your cookies’ flavor.
Gentle Mixing: Overworking the dough can result in tough cookies; mix until just combined for a tender bite.
Chill Time: Don’t skip chilling the dough! It helps maintain your bear shapes during baking and enhances the texture.
Consistent Thickness: Roll the dough to a uniform ¼-inch thickness to ensure even baking; varying thickness can cause uneven results.
Storing Cookies: Keep your Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.

Make Ahead Options

These Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. For even longer storage, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before rolling it out. Additionally, you can bake the cookies beforehand and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful treats, simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their tempting texture and flavor—just as delicious as when they were freshly baked!

Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your own flair onto these cookies and make them uniquely yours!

Maple Swap: Replace maple syrup with honey for a different sweetness that still delights. This twist adds its own complexity while keeping the essence of these treats intact.
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and richer flavor. Nuts not only add texture but also elevate the taste profile, creating a more fulfilling cookie experience.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities. With careful choices, these cookies can easily join your gluten-free dessert repertoire!
Chocolate Variations: Experiment with different chocolate types by using dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips. Each variation brings a unique sweetness, allowing you to find your perfect balance!
Spiced Twist: Increase the ground nutmeg or even add a pinch of ginger for a festive kick. A touch of added spice can transform your cookies from delightful to extraordinary.
Powdered Sugar Finish: After baking, roll the cookies in powdered sugar for a snowy appearance that will charm your guests. Not only will it look great, but it also adds an extra sweetness!
Royal Icing Decor: Glaze with royal icing for a beautiful presentation, especially for special occasions or holidays. This gives you the perfect canvas to unleash your creativity and personal touch.

Why not serve these delectable cookies with a cup of coffee or tea? You might also enjoy pairing them with a slice of cake from our delightful Cookies Cream Cupcakes for a truly delightful dessert spread!

How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their fresh flavor and crispy texture.

Fridge: If you live in a warm climate, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to two weeks, allowing them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.

Dough Storage: Wrap the unbaked dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months; simply thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling and baking your Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies.

What to Serve with Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere while enjoying a warm beverage or light accompaniment.

Chai Tea: The spiced notes in chai beautifully complement the cookies’ nutty sweetness, offering a comforting experience.
Creamy Hot Chocolate: Rich and velvety hot chocolate balances the cookies’ crunchiness, perfect for a cozy treat after playtime.
Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a tart freshness and vibrant color to your snack spread.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop for a delightful contrast between warm cookies and cool creaminess that feels luxurious.
Cinnamon Coffee: The warmth and spice from cinnamon in your coffee will elevate each bite of sweet goodness in these cookies.
Almond Milk: A refreshing, subtly sweet beverage that enhances the flavors of the cookies while catering to those seeking a lighter option.
Lemonade: A zesty, chilled lemonade provides a bright contrast, creating a delightful balance between sweet and tart.

Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For unsalted butter, choose blocks that are firm and creamy without any discoloration. When selecting maple syrup, it should be pure with no additives; check for a rich, robust aroma. Look for brown sugar that is moist and clumpy, as it ensures freshness.

How should I store the cookies and for how long?
You can store your Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you live in a warm climate, keeping them in the fridge may extend their freshness to about two weeks. Just allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze the cookie dough? How?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! Wrap unbaked cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough overnight in the fridge before rolling it out and cutting into bear shapes.

What if my cookies turn out too tough?
Don’t worry! If your cookies end up tough, it could be due to overmixing the dough or not chilling it sufficiently. Ensure you mix your ingredients just until combined and remember to chill the dough for about one hour. This helps create that tender texture we’re aiming for!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you have any allergies to dairy, you can substitute unsalted butter with a dairy-free vegan butter. Be mindful that chocolate chips may contain dairy as well, so opt for dairy-free chocolate if needed. Enjoy these cookies guilt-free, knowing they cater to many dietary preferences!

What if I want to make the cookies sweeter or change the flavor?
The more the merrier! You can increase the sweetness by adding a bit more maple syrup or using a mix of honey if desired. Additionally, for a flavor twist, add a dash of almond extract along with the vanilla. Get creative and make these Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies truly your own!