Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

If you’ve been searching for that perfect fall-inspired treat that wraps you in the cozy warmth of autumn with every bite, you have to try this Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe. These cookies are soft yet slightly crisp on the edges, bursting with rich maple flavor that’s both sweet and slightly smoky. The luscious maple icing on top elevates them to a whole new level, making every bite a delightful experience that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just to treat yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to become a favorite staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, relying on simple pantry staples that come together to create a cookie full of flavor and character. Each ingredient plays its part: butter and brown sugar give that tender, caramel-like base; pure maple syrup adds authentic sweetness; and spices bring a subtle warmth perfect for maple lovers.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds deep, molasses notes for a warm sweetness.
• ½ cup pure maple syrup: Infuses that signature maple essence into both dough and icing.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and gives structure to the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and layers of flavor.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cookie, providing softness and chewiness.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps cookies rise and become light.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice that complements the maple.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: Essential for the smooth, sweet maple icing.
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup: The maple syrup for the icing adds luscious flavor and liquid sweetness.
• 2-3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the icing consistency for perfect spreadability.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Brightens and rounds out the icing’s flavor.

How to Make Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come off the tray effortlessly without sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Brown Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender cookie texture and that satisfying caramel undertone.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Stir well until everything is thoroughly combined, releasing the wonderful aroma of maple and vanilla as you mix.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

Whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices so that every cookie has consistent texture and flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as the flour disappears to keep your cookies soft and tender.

Step 6: Portion Cookies onto Baking Sheets

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. This spacing is key to getting perfectly shaped cookies without them merging together.

Step 7: Bake Until Edges Are Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges turn a light golden color, signaling a perfect balance between a tender center and a just-right crispness at the edges.

Step 8: Cool Your Cookies

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to settle, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps avoid soggy bottoms and prepares your cookies for the delicious icing.

Step 9: Prepare the Maple Icing

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If your icing feels too thick to spread easily, add a little more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you achieve the perfect consistency.

Step 10: Ice the Cookies

Once your cookies are completely cool, spread a layer of that luscious maple icing generously over each one. The icing adds a silky sweetness that beautifully complements the subtle spice and rich maple flavor in the cookie itself.

Step 11: Let the Icing Set

Allow the maple icing to set completely before serving or storing your cookies. This ensures a neat finish and prevents the icing from smudging, making your cookies look as good as they taste.

How to Serve Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a touch of crunchy chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon over the icing for an extra layer of texture and flavor. You can also add a delicate drizzle of melted dark chocolate to contrast the sweet maple icing beautifully.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of chai tea, coffee, or apple cider to enhance their autumn vibe. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board adorned with maple leaves or cinnamon sticks for a stunning seasonal display. You might also sandwich two cookies together with extra maple icing or cream cheese frosting for a fun twist everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover maple cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their softness and flavor. Make sure the icing has fully set before stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing

You can freeze baked, iced cookies by layering them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep perfectly for up to 3 months and thaw beautifully at room temperature.

Reheating

If you prefer your maple cookies warm, gently reheat them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked softness without melting the icing excessively.

FAQs

Can I use maple extract instead of pure maple syrup?

While maple extract can be used for a more concentrated flavor, pure maple syrup adds both sweetness and moisture essential for the perfect texture in these cookies and icing.

How can I make the icing thicker or thinner?

Add powdered sugar gradually to thicken or a teaspoon of milk at a time to thin the icing until you reach the desired consistency for spreading or drizzling.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends that measure cup-for-cup like regular flour for a gluten-free version.

Can I substitute other spices for cinnamon?

Absolutely! Nutmeg or ground ginger can create a different but equally delightful flavor profile that still pairs wonderfully with maple.

What makes these Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe special?

The double dose of pure maple syrup in both the cookie dough and the icing creates a rich and authentic maple flavor that truly sets these cookies apart from any other sweet treat.

Final Thoughts

This Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe is a cozy, comforting treat that feels like a warm hug in cookie form. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s perfect for bakers of all levels who want to fill their home with the wonderful scent of maple. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite for every season but especially for those crisp, cozy days. So grab your mixing bowl and start baking—you won’t regret it!

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