Creating Chewy French Toast Cookies is simple when you follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
5. Incorporate Maple Syrup: Pour in the maple syrup, stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Fold in Nuts: If using, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
8. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; this is okay as they will continue to cook as they cool.
10. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
11. Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.

Follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of Chewy French Toast Cookies that are sure to impress!