Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

These Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies are delightful treats that bring a touch of whimsy to any occasion. With their rich brown butter flavor combined with the sweetness of maple syrup, these bear-shaped cookies are perfect for holidays, parties, or simply enjoying at home. Their unique design makes them fun for kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and maple syrup creates a deliciously unique taste that stands out.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Shaping the cookies into bears is a fun activity for children, making it a great family baking project.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip up these adorable cookies without stress.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are suitable for various events, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers.
• Customizable Design: Add your favorite decorations or toppings to personalize each cookie.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Light-colored saucepan
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Refrigerator
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining ingredients evenly and creating the dough without spills.
• Light-colored saucepan: Helps in monitoring the browning of butter effectively, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup when baking cookies.

Ingredients

These bear-shaped shortbread cookies are flavored with brown butter and maple syrup.

For the Dough

• 0.5 cup unsalted butter
• 0.25 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon maple extract
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 1.25 cups all-purpose flour
• 0.25 teaspoon baking powder

For Decoration

• 1 tablespoon chocolate chips, or as needed

How to Make Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

Step 1: Brown the Butter

1. Place unsalted butter into a small light-colored saucepan over medium heat.
2. Cook while swirling often until small brown bits appear at the bottom, about 8 to 10 minutes, creating a nutty aroma.
3. Pour the browned butter into a mixing bowl and allow it to cool for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Add pure maple syrup and dark brown sugar to the cooled butter; stir until well combined.
2. Mix in vanilla extract, maple extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Ensure everything is well-mixed.
3. Add in all-purpose flour and baking powder, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

Step 3: Shape Your Bears

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Remove dough from the fridge; scoop out 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball on the cookie sheet—flatten slightly.
4. For the snout, scoop out 1/4 teaspoon of dough, roll into a small ball, flatten it, and place it on top of the larger ball.
5. Roll two tiny balls (each about 1/8 teaspoon) for ears; place them on each side of the top ball to create bear ears.
6. Continue forming bear shapes until all dough is used up, spacing them about an inch apart on the baking sheet.
7. Chill the baking sheet in the fridge for another 20 minutes.

Step 4: Bake Your Cookies

1. Remove the chilled baking sheet from the fridge and place it in your preheated oven.
2. Bake until cookies are slightly browned on the bottom, about 20 to 23 minutes.
3. Let cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Decorate Your Bears

1. In a small microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup, melt your chocolate chips by heating for about 1 minute; stir every 30 seconds until fully melted.
2. Pour melted chocolate into a piping bag or freezer bag; snip off one corner to pipe designs onto your cookies as eyes and noses.
3. Allow chocolate decorations to harden before serving or storing in an airtight container.

Enjoy making these delightful Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies, perfect for sharing with friends and family!

How to Serve Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

These delightful bear-shaped cookies are perfect for any occasion, bringing joy and sweetness to your dessert table. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance the experience of enjoying these tasty treats.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that complements the rich, buttery flavor of the cookies. Choose whole or plant-based milk for a deliciously creamy sip.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual cookies in clear cellophane bags and tie them with festive ribbons. They make charming gifts for guests at birthday parties or holiday gatherings.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the bear cookies alongside other desserts like brownies and fruit tarts for an eye-catching dessert display at gatherings or potlucks.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside sliced apples or berries for a refreshing contrast. The sweetness of the fruit balances the richness of the cookies nicely.

With Ice Cream

• Place warm cookies on top of a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent treat that melts in your mouth.

How to Perfect Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

Achieving the perfect batch of Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Use a light-colored pan – Cooking butter in a light-colored saucepan helps you monitor its browning process better, ensuring you achieve that nutty flavor without burning it.

• Chill the dough properly – Allowing the dough to chill for at least 2 hours helps maintain its shape during baking, resulting in perfectly formed bear cookies.

• Measure flour accurately – Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents using too much flour, which can lead to dense cookies.

• Watch baking time closely – Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be slightly browned on the bottom but still soft in texture when removed from the oven.

• Customize shapes and sizes – Feel free to experiment with different shapes or sizes! Just adjust baking times accordingly if you make larger or smaller cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the cookies.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that balances sweetness with creaminess.

3. Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda; their creaminess complements the buttery notes in the cookies perfectly.

4. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   These decadent treats pair well, adding both visual appeal and a touch of luxury to your dessert spread.

5. Honeyed Ricotta Toasts
   Spread ricotta cheese on toasted bread drizzled with honey for a sweet, creamy contrast that enhances cookie enjoyment.

6. Spiced Chai Latte
   This warm beverage offers comforting spices and warmth that pairs wonderfully with sweet, buttery cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies can be fun and rewarding, but it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overheating the Butter: If you heat the butter too quickly or too long, it can burn rather than brown. Keep the heat medium and watch it closely for that nutty aroma.

• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step may lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours for better cookie shape.

• Ignoring Measuring Techniques: Using incorrect measurements can affect the texture. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups properly to ensure accuracy.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients can create a dense dough. Allow butter and other ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing.

• Baking on an Unlined Sheet: Baking directly on a sheet can cause sticking and uneven baking. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal and even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will remain fresh for up to 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer in an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well-separated to prevent sticking.

Reheating Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally for about 2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, consider adding an extra tablespoon of maple syrup or reducing the flour slightly.

Can I customize my Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or use different extracts like almond or coconut for unique flavors.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too crumbly?

If your dough is crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of water or additional maple syrup until it comes together smoothly.

How long do Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies last?

When stored correctly, these cookies will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator and three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies are not only adorable but also delectable! Their unique flavor profile makes them perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual snacks. Feel free to explore different shapes or toppings—let your creativity shine!