Maple Cookies with Maple Icing

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic Maple Flavor: Utilizing real maple syrup and extract infuses both the cookies and icing with a genuine, robust maple taste.
  • Soft and Chewy Texture: The combination of brown sugar and buttermilk ensures a tender, moist cookie that melts in your mouth.
  • Simple Preparation: With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare Dough:
    • In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
    • Mix in buttermilk, maple extract, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
    • Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  4. Shape Cookies:
    • Drop spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
    • Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
    • Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  6. Prepare Maple Icing:
    • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
    • Add milk and maple syrup; bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat and let cool for 10-15 minutes.
    • Gradually whisk in confectioners’ sugar until the icing is smooth.
  7. Ice Cookies:
    • Once cookies are completely cooled, spread the maple icing over the tops.
    • The icing will set quickly, so work efficiently.

Servings and Timing

  • Yield: Approximately 48 cookies.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes.
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes per batch.
  • Total Time: Approximately 1 hour.

Variations

  • Maple Pecan Cookies: Fold in chopped pecans into the dough for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
  • Spiced Maple Cookies: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend to accommodate dietary preferences.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Place cooled, iced cookies in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Unfrosted cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and ice before serving.
  • Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Note that icing may melt slightly.

FAQs

What type of maple syrup should I use?

For the best flavor, use pure maple syrup rather than imitation or pancake syrups, which often contain corn syrup and artificial flavors.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften slightly before scooping and baking.

How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies maintain their shape.

Is it necessary to use both maple extract and maple syrup?

Using both enhances the maple flavor. Maple syrup provides natural sweetness, while maple extract intensifies the flavor without adding extra liquid.

Can I substitute the buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are ready when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers appear set. Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft, chewy texture.

Can I add other mix-ins to the dough?

Certainly! Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or even white chocolate chips can be added to the dough for extra texture and flavor.

How long does the icing take to set?

The maple icing sets relatively quickly, usually within 15-20 minutes. Once set, the cookies can be stacked with parchment paper between layers.

Can I use this recipe to make cookie bars instead?

Yes, you can press the dough into a greased baking pan to make bars. Adjust the baking time accordingly, baking until the edges are golden and a toothpick

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Maple Cookies with Maple Icing

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 48 cookies
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

Maple Cookies with Maple Icing are a soft, chewy delight packed with rich, authentic maple flavor. Perfect for autumn gatherings or holiday celebrations, these easy-to-make cookies are enhanced with a sweet maple glaze that sets beautifully for a visually appealing and irresistible treat.

Ingredients

  • Cookies:
    • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 1 cup brown sugar
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1/2 cup buttermilk
    • 1 tsp maple extract
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 tsp baking soda
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Maple Icing:
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
    • 1/2 cup brown sugar
    • 1/4 cup milk
    • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
    • 2–3 cups confectioners’ sugar

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Prepare Dough:
    • Cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
    • Beat in eggs one at a time. Mix in buttermilk, maple extract, and vanilla.
  • Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix into wet ingredients.
  • Shape and Bake:
    • Drop dough onto baking sheets, 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly.
    • Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on a wire rack.
  • Prepare Maple Icing:
    • Melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir in milk and maple syrup, bring to a boil. Cool for 10-15 minutes.
    • Whisk in confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
  • Ice Cookies: Spread icing over cooled cookies. Allow to set for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate for 1 week.
  • Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and ice before serving.
  • Mix-Ins: Add pecans, walnuts, or white chocolate chips for variety.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes per batch
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star