The air was thick with the warm, sweet scent of autumn as I pulled my first batch of Maple Cookies with Maple Icing from the oven. These delightful cookies are not just a treat; they’re a comforting hug in dessert form, perfect for those crisp fall days when you’re craving something special. With their soft, cake-like texture and a glossy layer of silky icing, they’re the ideal indulgence to impress friends and family at any gathering. Plus, these little delights come together quickly, making them a stress-free addition to your baking repertoire. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, these cookies are bound to bring joy to your kitchen. Ready to discover how to create these autumnal gems? Let’s dive in! Why Are Maple Cookies Irresistible? Soft, Cake-Like Texture: Each bite offers a light and fluffy mouthfeel that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Rich Maple Flavor: Infused with pure maple extract, these cookies deliver a sweet, earthy flavor that genuinely celebrates autumn. Creative Variations: Feeling adventurous? Try Maple Pecan Cookies or indulge in spiced twists with cinnamon – ideal for diverse tastes! Quick and Easy: This recipe is a breeze, perfect for beginners or busy home cooks looking for delightful results without the fuss. Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s at a family gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress and spread smiles. Elevate your baking with these Maple Cookies and check out my delicious Donut Grilled Maple for more fall inspiration! Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Ingredients For the Cookies Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookie base; brown sugar can add a lovely depth of flavor. Large Eggs – Binds ingredients together for structure; replace with flax eggs for a vegan alternative. Buttermilk – Adds tanginess and moisture; can be swapped with milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar. Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; never leave it out for the best results. Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; opt for pure extract for the best impact. Maple Extract – Contributes concentrated maple flavor, essential to the recipe; pure maple syrup can be a substitute but may dilute the taste. Baking Soda and Baking Powder – Key leavening agents for rise; ensure they’re fresh for optimal results. All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. For the Icing Unsalted Butter – Base for the icing, delivering a creamy texture. Brown Sugar – Adds caramel notes; coconut sugar can work as a substitute. Milk – Helps achieve desired consistency; try non-dairy milk for a vegan version. Pure Maple Syrup – Elevates the icing flavor with sweetness and earthy notes. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing; sift it for a smooth finish. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Step 1: Prepare the Dough Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and light, about 3-4 minutes. Beat in large eggs one by one, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Gradually mix in buttermilk, salt, vanilla extract, and maple extract for that essential flavor, followed by baking soda and baking powder. Finally, add all-purpose flour slowly until just combined for your maple cookie dough. Step 2: Bake the Cookies Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 6-8 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are just beginning to brown, looking slightly underbaked. Remove the sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before gently transferring them to wire racks to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their soft texture. Step 3: Make the Icing While the cookies are cooling, prepare the maple icing. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter and brown sugar together, stirring constantly. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 2 minutes for caramelization while whisking. Remove from heat and stir in milk and pure maple syrup, boiling for an additional minute. Allow the icing to cool for about 15 minutes, then whisk in sifted powdered sugar until smooth and creamy, perfect for drizzling. Step 4: Ice the Cookies Once the cookies are completely cooled, it’s time to ice them with your silky maple icing. Use a spatula or a spoon to spread a generous layer of icing over each cookie while it’s still slightly warm—this helps the icing adhere. Work quickly to ensure the icing doesn’t set too much before you’ve covered all the cookies. Allow the iced cookies to sit at room temperature until the icing has fully set, which will create a lovely shiny finish. Make Ahead Options These Maple Cookies with Maple Icing are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance, just refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Additionally, the icing can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just make sure to reheat it gently before spreading to restore its silky consistency. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto your baking sheets and follow the baking instructions. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies with minimal effort, making your busy days a little sweeter! Storage Tips for Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Airtight Container: Store iced cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful texture. Freezing Cookies: For longer storage, un-iced cookies can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thawing Instructions: When ready to enjoy, simply let the frozen cookies thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before icing. Icing Storage: If you have leftover icing, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 week; re-whip before using on your Maple Cookies! Expert Tips for Maple Cookies Butter Temperature: Ensure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature; this is crucial for achieving a light, fluffy texture in your Maple Cookies. Cookie Spacing: Remember to space your cookie dough at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheets; they will spread as they bake, so give them room to grow without merging. Watch the Bake Time: Avoid overbaking by checking your cookies at the 6-minute mark; they should appear slightly underbaked to maintain their soft, cake-like texture. Quick Icing Application: Spread the maple icing quickly after making it; it thickens as it cools, making for easier application while achieving a lovely, glossy finish. Ingredient Quality: For the best flavor, always use pure maple extract in your cookies and icing; its richness is vital for that authentic maple experience you desire. What to Serve with Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Indulging in warm, maple-flavored cookies is a delightful experience that can be complemented with the right sides and treats. Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, tart fruits like apples and pears balance the sweetness, adding a refreshing crunch to your dessert table. The juicy bites contrast beautifully with the creamy maple icing of the cookies. Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creaminess enhances the maple flavors, creating a delightful fusion. A scoop next to warm cookies will melt contentment into your heart! Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Cozy beverages perfectly pair with the rich maple flavors, enhancing your cookie experience. Sipping a warm drink while enjoying these treats feels like a comforting hug on a chilly day. Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, especially creamy brie or sharp cheddar, creates a savory contrast to the sweet cookies. This sophisticated pairing invites guests to mix flavors and textures for a delightful tasting adventure. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit of homemade caramel over your maple cookies elevates the indulgence, adding a luxurious sweet layer. It makes each bite even more heavenly! Walnut Brownies: Pairing these with fudgy brownies adds a rich chocolatey element to the mix. The crunch of walnuts can beautifully complement the soft texture of the maple cookies. Bourbon or Maple Whiskey: For an adult twist, a glass of bourbon or maple-infused whiskey pairs marvelously, enhancing the maple experience. Sipping alongside the cookies brings a warm glow to your gathering. Butter Pecan Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy delight, with its nutty flavor, marries beautifully with sugary maple notes, creating a sweet symphony of flavors that dance in your mouth. Cinnamon-spiced Tea: The warmth of spices brings comfort and a hint of heat, perfectly complementing the sweet cookies. This pairing will evoke a cozy atmosphere for conversations or quiet moments. Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Variations Feel free to explore these delicious twists on the classic Maple Cookies; each one brings a unique flavor to the table! Maple Pecan Cookies: Add 1 cup of chopped pecans to the dough for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the maple flavor. Spiced Maple Cookies: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg for a warm, comforting spice that elevates the cookie experience. Maple Bacon Cookies: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the icing for an irresistible sweet-savory combo that will surprise and delight your taste buds. Gluten-Free Cookies: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to transform this treat into a gluten-friendly delight everyone can enjoy. Chocolate-Dipped Cookies: After icing, dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate for added richness that combines smoothly with the maple flavor. Coconut Macadamia Cookies: Fold in 1 cup of toasted coconut flakes and ½ cup of chopped macadamia nuts for a tropical twist with a satisfying texture. Pumpkin Spice Maple Cookies: Mix in ½ cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice; this will create a seasonal treat that feels like fall in every bite. Maple Oatmeal Cookies: Stir in 1 cup of rolled oats for added texture and a heartiness that will keep you satisfied. These variations are not just creative options; they can make your cozy gatherings even more special. Don’t forget, you can also try pairing your cookies with a refreshing Salad Honey Lime for a delightful balance of sweetness and zest! Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best maple extract for the recipe? Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Maple Cookies with Maple Icing, opt for pure maple extract over imitation varieties. Pure extracts typically offer a richer taste that truly captures the essence of maple. Always check the ingredient list to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product—this will significantly enhance your final result! How should I store my iced and un-iced cookies? I recommend storing your iced Maple Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you have un-iced cookies, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in the freezer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply allow them to thaw for about 30 minutes before icing. Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use? Absolutely! To freeze your maple cookie dough, first scoop the dough into rounded tablespoons and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, just preheat your oven and bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. What can I do if my cookies are turning out too flat? Very! If your Maple Cookies are coming out flat, first check the freshness of your baking soda and baking powder—these leavening agents are crucial for the rise. Additionally, make sure your butter isn’t too warm when creaming with sugar; overly soft butter can lead to flat cookies. Lastly, try chilling your dough for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape. Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies? It’s essential to be cautious! The Maple Cookies themselves contain no nuts, but if you’re making variations such as Maple Pecan Cookies, they would be unsuitable for someone with nut allergies. If you’re preparing these for guests, you might consider labeling them clearly and choosing alternative mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit instead. Maple Cookies with Maple Icing: A Sweet Autumn Delight Enjoy the delightful flavors of Maple Cookies with Maple Icing—a perfect autumn treat bursting with rich maple flavor. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 8 minutes minsCooling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 38 minutes mins Servings: 12 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookies1 cup Unsalted Butter Softened1 cup Granulated Sugar Or brown sugar for extra flavor2 large Large Eggs Or flax eggs for a vegan option1/2 cup Buttermilk Or milk mixed with lemon juice1/2 teaspoon Salt2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Pure for optimal taste1 teaspoon Maple Extract Or pure maple syrup in a pinch1 teaspoon Baking Soda Ensure fresh1 teaspoon Baking Powder Ensure fresh2 cups All-Purpose Flour Or gluten-free flourFor the Icing1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Melted1 cup Brown Sugar Or coconut sugar1/4 cup Milk Non-dairy for a vegan option1/4 cup Pure Maple Syrup Essential for flavor2 cups Powdered Sugar Sifted for smooth finish Equipment Mixing bowlBaking SheetsParchment paperSaucepanWhisk Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and light.Beat in large eggs one by one, then gradually mix in buttermilk, salt, vanilla extract, and maple extract, followed by baking soda and baking powder.Add all-purpose flour slowly until just combined for your maple cookie dough.Drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 6-8 minutes or until edges are set.Allow cookies to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.Prepare the maple icing by melting unsalted butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly.Add milk and maple syrup, bringing to boil; then simmer for 2 minutes.Allow icing to cool for 15 minutes, then whisk in sifted powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.Spread icing over cooled cookies and allow to set at room temperature. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 12gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor best flavor, use pure maple extract. Store iced cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
