Maple Cookies With Maple Icing Recipe

If you adore the rich, comforting flavor of maple in every bite, this Maple Cookies With Maple Icing Recipe is going to become one of your absolute favorites. These cookies are tender, buttery, and kissed with just the right amount of cinnamon, while the luscious maple icing on top brings a silky sweetness that perfectly complements the warm spices. They are simple to make but feel utterly special, making them a fantastic treat whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself after a long day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each plays a vital role: butter for richness, real maple syrup for authentic sweetness and flavor, and spices to add depth. Together, they create cookies that are chewy yet delicate, with an icing that’s smooth and irresistibly maple-infused.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a creamy base and rich texture essential for tender cookies.
• 1/2 cup maple syrup: The star ingredient, bringing natural sweetness and that unmistakable maple charm.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note that deepens the flavor.
• 1 large egg: Binds the dough and contributes to the cookie’s soft texture.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The structure of the cookies; be sure to measure properly for perfect results.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Gives the cookies a little lift for a light, tender crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice that pairs beautifully with maple.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Base for the maple icing, creating a smooth and sweet glaze.
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Infuses the icing with that iconic maple flavor to mirror the cookies.
• 1 tablespoon milk (or more): Adjusts the icing consistency to your liking, making it easy to spread or drizzle.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds complexity and rounds out the sweetness in the icing.

How to Make Maple Cookies With Maple Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to keep cookies from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze. A well-prepared baking surface sets the stage for perfectly baked cookies every time.

Step 2: Cream the Butter, Maple Syrup, and Brown Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, maple syrup, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial because it combines the fat and sugars into a creamy base that will help your cookies maintain their tender, chewy texture.

Step 3: Add the Egg

Crack in the egg and mix thoroughly until fully incorporated. The egg adds moisture and structure, ensuring your cookies hold together without being dense.

Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures that the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed, which means uniform flavor and rise throughout your cookies.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can make cookies tough, so stop as soon as you see no more streaks of flour.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls before placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Be sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.

Step 7: Flatten Cookies Slightly

Use the back of a spoon to gently press down on each dough ball. This helps them bake evenly and creates the perfect base for the maple icing.

Step 8: Bake Until Edges Are Lightly Golden

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, watching carefully so you don’t over-bake. The edges should just start to turn golden while the centers remain soft, giving you that delightful chewy texture we all crave.

Step 9: Cool on a Wire Rack

Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling fully is important to ensure the icing sets properly without melting away.

Step 10: Prepare the Maple Icing

While the cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk if needed to get your ideal consistency for spreading or drizzling.

Step 11: Ice Your Cookies

Drizzle or spread the maple icing over each cooled cookie. Let the icing set before serving so each bite has that lovely glossy finish and sweet maple taste.

How to Serve Maple Cookies With Maple Icing Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle finely chopped pecans or a dash of cinnamon on top of the icing before it sets for added texture and visual appeal. The nuts add a satisfying crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft cookie and sweet glaze.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea to complement their warm spices. They also work fabulously alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a wooden platter with some maple leaves or warm-toned napkins for a cozy, inviting look. You can also stack them into little towers, tying them with rustic twine to gift as a charming homemade present.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover maple cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, retaining their soft texture and full maple flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze un-iced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid. Defrost completely before applying the maple icing for best results.

Reheating

Warm cookies briefly in a microwave or oven before serving to revive their soft, chewy texture. Avoid reheating the iced cookies too much, as the icing may melt and lose its charm.

FAQs

Can I use artificial maple flavor instead of real maple syrup?

While artificial flavors can work in a pinch, real maple syrup offers a depth and natural sweetness that truly elevates the cookies and icing, making a noticeable difference in taste.

What can I substitute if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can substitute light or dark brown sugar with an equal amount of white granulated sugar plus a teaspoon of molasses to mimic the rich flavor and moisture brown sugar adds.

How do I make the icing thicker or thinner?

To thicken the icing, add more powdered sugar a little at a time. For a thinner consistency, gradually mix in additional milk until you reach the desired texture.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. Be sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture.

How long does the maple icing take to set?

The icing typically sets within 30 to 60 minutes at room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the cookies in the fridge for faster setting.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Cookies With Maple Icing Recipe combine the cozy flavors of fall with a tender, delightful texture that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or treating yourself, they bring a little bit of maple magic to any day. I can’t wait for you to try them and make these sweet memories your own!

Print