Soft and Chewy Brown Sugar Amish Cookies: A Simple, Delicious Tradition

Name: Soft and Chewy Brown Sugar Amish Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-481316H46M20S
Total time: PT-481316H46M20S
Cuisine: Amish
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/2-1 tablespoon milk (optional); Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.; Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.; Combine Wet and Dry: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mix until combined, then gradually add the dry ingredients. Chill the dough for 30-40 minutes if desired.; Bake the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Portion the dough into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-11 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned.; Prepare the Glaze (Optional): Whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Adjust the consistency with milk if needed. Drizzle over cooled cookies and allow to set.

Introduction

Amish baking traditions are well-known for their simplicity, wholesomeness, and incredible flavors. Among the many delightful recipes passed down through generations, Brown Sugar Amish Cookies stand out as a timeless favorite. These cookies are celebrated for their soft and chewy texture, combined with a rich, comforting flavor that makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to bring a sweet treat to a family gathering or simply craving a homemade snack, these cookies deliver a taste of nostalgia that’s hard to resist.

The charm of Brown Sugar Amish Cookies lies in their simplicity. Made with basic pantry ingredients, these cookies are easy to prepare, yet they deliver an exceptional flavor that embodies the essence of Amish baking. The use of brown sugar in the dough not only imparts a deep, caramel-like sweetness but also contributes to the chewy texture that makes these cookies so beloved.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal time and effort. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a batch of warm, delicious cookies ready to enjoy. Let’s explore the ingredients and steps you’ll need to create these delightful treats.

What You’ll Need

Before you dive into baking these delightful Brown Sugar Amish Cookies, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools and ingredients. Having everything ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable, ensuring that your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Kitchen Tools

For this recipe, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools that you likely already have on hand:

Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few different sizes for mixing dry and wet ingredients separately.
Whisk and Spatula: A whisk will help you combine the dry ingredients, while a spatula is useful for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Stand or Hand Mixer: This is essential for creaming the butter and sugars together, which is a key step in achieving the right texture for your cookies.
Baking Sheet and Parchment Paper: A baking sheet is necessary for baking the cookies, and parchment paper will prevent them from sticking.
Ice Cream Scoop (Optional): An ice cream scoop can help you portion the dough evenly, ensuring all cookies are the same size and bake uniformly.

Ingredients for the Cookies

With your tools ready, it’s time to gather the ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect cookie.

For the Cookies:

2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cookies.
3/4 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture, contributing to the chewy texture.
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Ensures a rich, buttery flavor and helps create a tender crumb.
1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and a slight crispness to the edges.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together, adding richness and structure.
2 teaspoons cinnamon: Brings warmth and depth of flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent, giving the cookies a slight rise.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.

For the Glaze (Optional):

1 1/4 cups powdered sugar: Provides the base for the glaze, adding sweetness and a smooth texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the glaze, complementing the cookies.
1/4 cup maple syrup: Adds a hint of maple flavor and richness to the glaze.
1/2-1 tablespoon milk (optional): Adjusts the consistency of the glaze to your preference.

By gathering these ingredients and tools in advance, you’ll be ready to whip up these delectable cookies without any interruptions. The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla creates a wonderfully aromatic dough that bakes into soft, chewy cookies—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Instructions

Making Brown Sugar Amish Cookies is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. By following these simple steps, you’ll have a batch of soft, chewy cookies ready to enjoy in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

The foundation of any great cookie lies in the dough. In this first step, you’ll mix the ingredients to create a perfectly balanced dough that bakes into soft, flavorful cookies.

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by preparing your dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Combining these ingredients now ensures that they are evenly distributed throughout the dough later on.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars
Next, in a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter (room temperature), 3/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough, which contributes to the cookies’ soft texture.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Once the butter and sugar mixture is ready, add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.

4. Chill the Dough (Optional)
If the dough feels too soft or sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 30-40 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to firm it up, making it easier to handle and resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.

Step 2: Bake the Cookies

With your dough ready, it’s time to portion and bake your cookies. This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown edge with a soft center.

1. Portion the Dough
Using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop, portion the dough into 1-inch balls. Place each dough ball onto an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.

2. Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, bake the cookies for 10-11 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly browned. The centers should still appear soft, as they will continue to set while cooling. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in cookies that are too crisp rather than soft and chewy.

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

While the cookies are cooling, you can prepare an optional glaze to drizzle over the top. This glaze adds a touch of sweetness and an extra layer of flavor, making the cookies even more irresistible.

1. Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup of maple syrup. The glaze should be smooth and slightly thick. If you prefer a thinner glaze, add 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of milk until you reach your desired consistency.

2. Drizzle the Glaze
Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over each one. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for more control. Allow the glaze to set before serving, which should only take a few minutes.

Nutrition Information, Serving Suggestions, and Storage Tips

Nutrition Information

Understanding the nutritional content of your baked goods can help you enjoy them as part of a balanced diet. These Brown Sugar Amish Cookies are not only delicious but also relatively simple in terms of ingredients, which means you can indulge without too much guilt.

Each cookie provides approximately 180 calories, making it a satisfying treat that’s perfect for a quick snack or a sweet ending to a meal. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (1 cookie):

Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugars: 15g
Protein: 1g

These cookies are rich in flavor and offer a good balance of fats and carbohydrates, with the majority of sweetness coming from the brown sugar and powdered sugar. While they are a treat, they can certainly fit into a well-rounded diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Serving Suggestions

Brown Sugar Amish Cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas to make the most out of your freshly baked batch:

1. Serve Warm or at Room Temperature
For the ultimate experience, enjoy these cookies warm, fresh from the oven. The soft centers and slightly crisp edges make for a delightful contrast. If you prefer, they are equally delicious when cooled to room temperature, with the flavors becoming even more pronounced.

2. Pair with a Beverage
These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, making them a perfect after-school snack or late-night treat. Alternatively, enjoy them with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon break. The rich, buttery flavor of the cookies complements the bitterness of coffee or the soothing qualities of tea.

3. Glazed or Unglazed
While the maple glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and flavor, these cookies are just as delightful without it. If you prefer a more subtle sweetness, you can skip the glaze altogether or experiment with different types of glazes, such as a simple vanilla or lemon glaze, depending on your taste preferences.

Storage Tips

Proper storage ensures that your Brown Sugar Amish Cookies stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Follow these tips to keep them at their best:

1. Store in an Airtight Container
Once your cookies have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container. This will help maintain their soft, chewy texture and keep them fresh for up to a week at room temperature.

2. Freezing Option
If you want to save some cookies for later or prepare them in advance, consider freezing the dough. Scoop the dough into 1-inch balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a resealable freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw the dough balls at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before baking as usual.

3. Reheating Tips
If you prefer your cookies warm, you can easily reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will soften the cookies and bring back that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Variations and Frequently Asked Questions

Variations

One of the joys of baking is the ability to customize recipes to suit your tastes or to add a new twist to a classic treat. While Brown Sugar Amish Cookies are delicious as they are, there are several variations you can try to add different flavors and textures.

1. Add-ins
To give your cookies an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider adding ingredients like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit. Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch and complement the rich flavor of the brown sugar. For chocolate lovers, semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips can be folded into the dough for a sweet surprise in every bite. If you enjoy a bit of chewiness in your cookies, dried cranberries or raisins make an excellent addition.

2. Spices
While the original recipe calls for cinnamon, you can experiment with other spices to create a different flavor profile. For example, nutmeg adds a warm, slightly nutty flavor, while cardamom brings a fragrant, exotic twist. A pinch of ground cloves can also add depth and a hint of spiciness to the cookies.

3. Alternative Glazes
If you want to change up the glaze, there are several alternatives you can try. Honey glaze is a simple, natural sweetener that pairs well with the brown sugar in the cookies. For a tangy contrast, you could make a lemon glaze by mixing powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice. Another option is to use caramel sauce as a drizzle, adding a rich, buttery flavor that enhances the sweetness of the cookies.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the ratio of brown sugar to white sugar in cookies?
This recipe exclusively uses brown sugar to enhance the cookies’ chewiness and moisture. If you were to substitute, the typical ratio in other recipes is 1:1, meaning you could use equal parts brown sugar and white sugar. However, for the best results and to maintain the classic Amish cookie texture, it’s recommended to stick with brown sugar.

2. What does adding more brown sugar do to cookies?
Using more brown sugar in a cookie recipe increases the moisture content, resulting in a softer and chewier texture. Additionally, the molasses in brown sugar deepens the flavor, giving the cookies a rich, caramel-like taste that’s hard to achieve with white sugar alone.

3. Which brown sugar is best for cookies?
Both light and dark brown sugar work well in cookies, but each offers a slightly different flavor. Light brown sugar provides a milder sweetness with subtle molasses notes, while dark brown sugar offers a more intense, rich flavor due to its higher molasses content. For this recipe, either type can be used based on your preference, though dark brown sugar will give the cookies a deeper, more robust flavor.

4. Is it better to bake cookies with brown sugar or white sugar?
The choice between brown sugar and white sugar depends on the desired texture and flavor. Brown sugar is better for soft, chewy cookies because it retains moisture and adds depth to the flavor. White sugar results in crisper cookies with a lighter flavor. Since this recipe aims to create soft, chewy cookies, brown sugar is the preferred choice.