Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe
If you have a soft spot for anything infused with that rich, comforting sweetness of maple, you’re absolutely going to adore this Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe. These cookies are tender and buttery with a warm hint of cinnamon, perfectly complemented by a luscious maple syrup icing that’s just sweet enough to make you pause and savor every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something cozy with your afternoon tea, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels like a warm hug in cookie form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the beautiful flavors and textures that make these Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe so irresistible. From the soft butter that gives tenderness to the cookies to the pure maple syrup that delivers authentic sweetness, every item matters.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a deeper caramel flavor that plays well with maple.
- ½ cup pure maple syrup: The star ingredient that infuses the dough with authentic maple sweetness.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds structure to the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile with warm, fragrant notes.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives body and structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and gives a soft yet slightly cakey texture.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle warmth that complements the maple perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Essential for creating that smooth, sweet maple icing.
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup: Used in the icing for a beautiful, authentic maple glaze.
- 2-3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the consistency of the icing for spreading.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds aromatic depth to the maple icing.
How to Make Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Cream Butter with Sugar
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. Then, in a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is where the magic begins, as the creaming process sets the stage for tender, delicious cookies.
Step 2: Add Maple Syrup, Egg, and Vanilla Extract
Next, mix in the pure maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This combination infuses the dough with sweet, aromatic flavors and gives the cookies a moist, tender texture that melts in your mouth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisking these dry ingredients ensures they are evenly distributed, preventing any clumps in your dough and blending flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet maple mixture, stirring just until combined. It’s important not to overmix here so your cookies stay soft and light rather than dense and tough.
Step 5: Scoop and Bake
Using a tablespoon, scoop dough portions onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for gentle spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a lovely light golden color. The scent filling your kitchen at this point is simply irresistible.
Step 6: Cool the Cookies
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is key here to avoid melting the icing when you apply it.
Step 7: Prepare and Spread Maple Icing
In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth icing. If it seems too thick for spreading, add milk one teaspoon at a time until you reach the perfect consistency. Once your cookies are completely cooled, spread the maple icing generously over each one and allow it to set before serving or storing.
How to Serve Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe
Garnishes
To make these cookies even more festive and visually inviting, try sprinkling a bit of finely chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top of the maple icing before it sets. A small drizzle of extra maple syrup right before serving can also amplify the sweetness for true maple lovers.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a comforting cup of coffee or a rich, creamy chai latte. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or yogurt parfaits to balance the sweetness. They’re also a wonderful accompaniment to a warm bowl of spiced apple cider.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, stack the iced cookies and tie them with a rustic ribbon for gifting or parties. You can also serve them on a wooden board alongside small bowls of nuts and dried fruits, inviting guests to mix and match flavors. Another idea is to sandwich the icing between two cookies for a fun twist on a maple-flavored treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These maple cookies keep wonderfully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If you want to maintain their perfect texture, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking and smudging the icing.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the uneaten cookies by first letting the icing fully set, then placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag with parchment layers in between. They can stay fresh for up to 2 months this way, ready to thaw when you’re craving maple goodness.
Reheating
While these cookies taste great cold, warming them slightly for 10-15 seconds in the microwave can enhance their softness and bring out the maple aroma. Just be careful not to melt the icing too much – a gentle warm-up will do the trick beautifully.
FAQs
Can I substitute regular syrup for pure maple syrup?
For the best flavor, pure maple syrup is highly recommended as it provides that authentic, rich maple taste. Using regular syrup or imitation maple syrup might result in a less natural sweetness and flavor profile.
How do I make sure the icing is the right consistency?
Start with the recommended amount of milk, then add more teaspoon by teaspoon if needed. The icing should be smooth and spreadable but not too runny, so it holds nicely on each cookie.
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour works best here for structure and texture, but if you want to experiment, a gluten-free blend might work with some tweaking. Just be aware that the texture could change.
Are these cookies allergen-friendly?
This recipe contains butter and eggs, so it is not suitable for those with dairy or egg allergies. However, with some substitutions, a similar flavor can be explored.
How long does the maple icing take to set?
It usually takes about 30 minutes at room temperature for the icing to set firmly, depending on humidity. For a quicker set, place the cookies in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe enough if you want to enjoy a sweet treat that feels homemade and full of warmth. The balance of tender cookie and creamy maple icing is just perfect for cozy afternoons or festive gatherings. Give it a try, and watch how quickly these cookies become your go-to comfort snack—once you taste, you’ll understand why I’m so enthusiastic about sharing this one!
Print
Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Delightfully sweet and soft Maple Cookies topped with a smooth and rich Maple Icing, perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting treat. These cookies combine the warm flavors of maple syrup and cinnamon, creating a deliciously flavorful bite that pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Maple Icing
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for your dough.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the pure maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Mix Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring carefully until just combined to avoid overmixing which can make the cookies tough.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating they are done but still soft inside.
- Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before icing.
- Prepare Maple Icing: In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency. Adjust milk by adding 1 teaspoon at a time if the icing becomes too thick.
- Ice the Cookies: Once cookies are fully cooled, spread a generous layer of maple icing over each cookie evenly.
- Set the Icing: Allow the icing to set completely before serving or storing to prevent smudging and to enjoy the perfect texture.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened (but not melted) to create a creamy dough base.
- Do not overmix the dough after adding flour to keep cookies tender.
- Spacing cookies 2 inches apart allows for proper spreading during baking.
- Let cookies cool completely before icing to prevent the icing from melting.
- Adjust icing thickness according to preference by varying the milk amount.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
