Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

If you adore the rich, comforting flavors of autumn, then this Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. These soft, buttery cookies infused with real maple syrup have just the right hint of warm cinnamon, creating a cozy taste that wraps you up like a snug sweater. Topped with a luscious maple icing that’s silky and sweet, this recipe is a celebration of everything maple and a delightful way to enjoy the season’s best flavors in cookie form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of simple, familiar ingredients can come together to create something this delicious. Each component was chosen to enhance the maple flavor, texture, or color, making this recipe as easy as it is heavenly.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Softened for easy mixing and provides a rich, creamy base for tender cookies.
• 1/2 cup maple syrup: The star ingredient contributing natural sweetness and that unmistakable maple aroma.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and depth with its caramel notes, complementing the maple perfectly.
• 1 large egg: Binds the dough together and gives structure to your cookies.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The essential foundation for cookie dough, providing body and chewiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: For a gentle lift and light texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A cozy spice that pairs beautifully with maple.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: For making the smooth, sweet maple icing.
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Adds maple flavor to the icing, tying everything together.
• 1 tablespoon milk: Adjusts consistency for a perfect drizzle or spread of icing.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the maple icing.

How to Make Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies bake evenly and come off easily without sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, maple syrup, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is key to developing a light texture and infusing the dough with maple sweetness.

Step 3: Incorporate the Egg

Add the egg to the creamed mixture, mixing thoroughly until it’s fully combined. This helps bind the ingredients while keeping the dough tender.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Blending these spices and leavening agents evenly ensures each cookie has a consistent rise and flavor.

Step 5: Blend Wet and Dry Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can make your cookies tough rather than tender.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place these on your baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread.

Step 7: Flatten Gently

Use the back of a spoon to slightly flatten each dough ball. This helps them bake evenly and creates a nice, cookie-like shape.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll want to see lightly golden edges—that tells you they’re perfectly baked but still soft inside.

Step 9: Cool Completely

Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This is important so the icing adheres nicely without melting off.

Step 10: Whisk Up the Maple Icing

While the cookies cool, mix together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth, creamy icing. Adjust the milk to get the texture you want—thicker for spreading, thinner for drizzling.

Step 11: Ice and Set

Either drizzle or spread the maple icing over the cooled cookies. Let them sit until the icing sets for a beautiful glossy finish that’s irresistibly sweet.

How to Serve Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra-special touch, sprinkle a tiny pinch of ground cinnamon or finely chopped toasted pecans over the icing while it’s still wet. This adds texture and a pop of color that’s perfect for presentations or gifting.

Side Dishes

These maple cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of chai tea or a freshly brewed coffee, the spices and bitterness balancing the sweet maple flavor. For a brunch or snack, serve alongside apple slices or a small bowl of roasted nuts to keep with that cozy fall vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your maple cookies on a rustic wooden platter with some autumn leaves or mini pumpkins around. Alternatively, stack them in a clear jar tied with a burlap ribbon for a charming homemade gift that looks as lovely as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The icing will stay soft but firm enough to hold its shape, keeping the cookies just as delicious as the day they were baked.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies either iced or plain. If you choose to freeze them plain, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and apply the maple icing fresh for best results.

Reheating

To gently warm the cookies, pop them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. This softens the cookie and slightly melts the icing, making them taste fresh out of the oven. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cookies chewy or cause the icing to run.

FAQs

Can I use pure maple syrup, or is pancake syrup okay?

For the best authentic flavor, use pure maple syrup. Pancake syrup usually contains added sugars and flavors that won’t provide the same natural depth or richness that pure maple syrup brings to the recipe.

Is there a substitute for brown sugar?

If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white granulated sugar with a tablespoon of molasses to mimic the moisture and flavor of brown sugar. This substitution keeps the cookies just as delicious.

Can I make the cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suited for baking, and be sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain texture.

How do I get the maple icing thicker or thinner?

To thicken the icing, add more powdered sugar a little at a time. To thin it out for drizzling, add small amounts of milk until you reach the desired consistency.

Can I add other flavors to the icing?

Yes! A pinch of ground nutmeg or a little almond extract can add a lovely twist. Just be cautious with strong flavors, as you don’t want to overpower the maple’s star quality.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about biting into a cookie that carries the essence of maple syrup in every tender crumb and glossy drizzle. This Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe is easy to make, utterly comforting, and perfect for sharing with loved ones—or sneaking a few extra for yourself. Give it a try, and I promise these cookies will soon become a beloved staple in your kitchen as they have in mine.

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