Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2️⃣ Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
3️⃣ Add Wet Ingredients:
Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until smooth and well combined.
4️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and ground cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5️⃣ Shape the Cookies:
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6️⃣ Bake the Cookies:
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. The centers should still be soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7️⃣ Prepare the Maple Icing:
While the cookies are cooling, make the maple icing by whisking together powdered sugar and maple syrup until smooth and drizzle-able. If you prefer a thicker icing, you can adjust the amount of powdered sugar.
8️⃣ Top the Cookies:
Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the maple icing over the top of each cookie. You can also dip the tops of the cookies into the icing for a thicker layer of glaze.
9️⃣ Let the Icing Set:
Allow the icing to set for about 10-15 minutes before serving the cookies. The icing will firm up, creating a sweet, glossy finish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Maple Cookies:
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing the dough can lead to dense cookies. Mix until just combined for a light, chewy texture.
- Use Real Maple Syrup: For the best flavor, always use pure maple syrup rather than imitation maple flavor.
- Chill the Dough: If you find that the dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping the cookies.
Why You’ll Love These Maple Cookies:
- Sweet Maple Flavor: The pure maple syrup in both the cookies and the icing gives a warm, comforting flavor that’s perfect for any season.
- Chewy and Soft Texture: These cookies are soft and chewy on the inside with just a hint of crispiness on the edges.
- Easy to Make: These cookies are simple to prepare, and the maple icing adds a delightful finishing touch without being overly complicated.
Nutritional Information (per cookie):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 1g
- Carbs: 27g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQ About Maple Cookies:
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! The cookies can be baked and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cookies for up to 3 months before glazing and serving.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! If you’d like to prepare the dough ahead of time, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months.
Can I use a different type of syrup?
While this recipe works best with pure maple syrup, you can substitute it with honey or golden syrup if you prefer. However, the flavor will be slightly different.
Common Problems and Fixes:
Cookies Spread Too Much?
If your cookies spread too much during baking, it could be because the dough was too warm. Chill the dough before baking to help prevent excessive spreading.
Icing Too Runny?
If the maple icing is too runny, add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more maple syrup to loosen it up.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
- Maple Pecan Cookies: Add chopped pecans to the cookie dough for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Spiced Maple Cookies: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dough for a warm spiced twist.
- Maple Bacon Cookies: For a savory twist, top the cookies with crispy bacon bits for a sweet and salty combination.
Why Maple Cookies with Maple Icing are Perfect for Any Occasion:
These maple cookies are perfect for autumn, holiday baking, or anytime you’re craving a sweet treat. The maple flavor is warm and comforting, making it a great cookie for cozy gatherings or as a gift for loved ones.
Success with Maple Cookies:
These Maple Cookies with Maple Icing are sure to become a new favorite. Soft, sweet, and perfectly spiced, they’re a treat that will leave everyone asking for more!
For more cookie recipes, check out Chocolate Chip Cookies or Gingerbread Cookies.
Loved these Maple Cookies? Share the recipe with your friends on social media and leave a comment below to let us know how they turned out!
