If you’re searching for a cozy treat that tastes like autumn in every bite, Maple Cookies with Maple Icing are an absolute must-try! These cookies are deliciously soft, delicately flavored with real maple syrup, and finished with a creamy maple glaze that makes every nibble pure comfort. Whether you bake them for a special gathering or just to treat yourself, their golden hue and rich aroma always spark joy. This recipe is a go-to in my kitchen whenever I’m craving something irresistibly homey and sweet, and I can promise you each cookie delivers the perfect balance of chewy center and melt-in-your-mouth icing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Maple Cookies with Maple Icing comes from a few straightforward ingredients, each chosen for a reason. Simple pantry staples get a flavor boost from pure maple syrup, giving these cookies their unforgettable warmth and depth.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides a rich, creamy base and ensures the cookies bake up perfectly tender.
- Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds a lovely caramel note that enhances the cookies’ warmth and chewiness.
- Pure maple syrup (1/2 cup for cookies, plus 2 tbsp for icing): Use real maple syrup for authentic, deep flavor that makes these cookies shine.
- Large egg (1): Brings everything together for a cohesive, soft dough.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp for cookies, 1/4 tsp for icing): Just a splash enhances the maple aroma in both cookies and icing.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): The structure builder, keeping your cookies soft but not cakey.
- Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Gives a gentle lift and softens the cookies’ crumb.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Brightens and balances the sweet flavors.
- Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups, for icing): Ensures a smooth, satiny finish to your cookie topping.
- Milk (1–2 tbsp, for icing): Adjusts the icing to your favorite consistency for spreading or drizzling.
How to Make Maple Cookies with Maple Icing
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Parchment not only prevents sticking but makes cleanup a breeze once you’re enjoying your batch of Maple Cookies with Maple Icing.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and packed brown sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step is key for a cookie with the perfect pillowy texture, and it infuses each bite with a delicate sweetness.
Step 3: Add Maple, Egg, and Vanilla
To your creamed butter mixture, pour in the pure maple syrup, crack in the egg, and add the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the batter looks smooth and silky; the aroma at this stage will already be tempting you to sneak a taste!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the baking soda and salt evenly distribute so each cookie bakes up just right.
Step 5: Form the Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing gently until a soft dough comes together. Don’t over-mix; you want your Maple Cookies with Maple Icing soft and tender every time!
Step 6: Portion and Shape the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls, spacing them about two inches apart on your baking sheets. Gently flatten each one with your hand or the bottom of a glass—just enough to give them that classic cookie shape.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a delicate golden brown. They should look slightly underbaked in the center; this is how you get that irresistible soft texture!
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack. This little patience allows them to finish setting without becoming dry.
Step 9: Whisk Up the Maple Icing
In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and just enough milk to make an icing that’s spreadable or perfect for drizzling. Adjust the milk as needed for your ideal icing consistency.
Step 10: Ice the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread or drizzle the maple icing on top. This step transforms them into gorgeous, bakery-worthy treats. Allow the icing to set before stacking or storing the cookies.
How to Serve Maple Cookies with Maple Icing
Garnishes
If you like a touch of flair, sprinkle freshly chopped pecans or a dash of cinnamon onto the icing before it sets. These simple additions bring extra crunch and warmth, taking your Maple Cookies with Maple Icing to another level of homemade charm.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot mug of coffee or chai, rich vanilla ice cream, or a cozy fall fruit salad. Their maple notes are perfectly complemented by creamy or lightly spiced sides.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack cookies in a rustic bakery box as a heartfelt gift, or arrange them on a tiered platter with edible flowers for a brunch centerpiece. I also love tucking undipped cookies in lunchboxes, with a side of icing for fun DIY dipping! The possibilities for sharing Maple Cookies with Maple Icing are endless and always bring a smile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Maple Cookies with Maple Icing are fully set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Slip a sheet of parchment between layers to keep the icing looking pristine and the cookies fresh.
Freezing
If you’d like to bake ahead, freeze the cookies (unglazed) in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Thaw at room temperature and frost with the maple icing when ready to serve so they taste bakery-fresh anytime cravings strike.
Reheating
While these cookies don’t need reheating, if you’ve frozen them and want that “just baked” vibe, let them come fully to room temperature, then warm for just 5 seconds in the microwave. Add the icing after reheating so it stays glossy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use pancake syrup instead of pure maple syrup?
Pancake syrup doesn’t have the same rich, complex flavor as pure maple syrup, so I highly recommend sticking to real maple. It’s what makes Maple Cookies with Maple Icing truly special!
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Keep a close eye as the edges turn golden but the centers remain soft. They’ll firm up as they cool, making for that dreamy chewy texture.
Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite one-to-one gluten-free flour blend. The cookies will still be soft and full of maple goodness.
Can I double the recipe for a big crowd?
Yes, this recipe doubles beautifully. Just bake in batches and make sure to cool your baking sheets between each round so every batch is picture-perfect.
What’s the best way to get perfectly smooth icing?
Sift your powdered sugar before making the icing and add the milk gradually. This ensures the Maple Cookies with Maple Icing are topped with a silky, bakery-style glaze every time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a new baking tradition or want to impress at your next get-together, Maple Cookies with Maple Icing are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their blend of buttery dough and silky-sweet icing is pure comfort in cookie form, and you’ll want to make them again and again. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every last crumb!
Print
Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Maple Cookies with Maple Icing are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Soft, sweet cookies with a rich maple flavor topped with a luscious maple icing, these cookies are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the icing:
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Bake: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Flatten slightly and bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Make icing: Whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, and milk for icing. Spread or drizzle over cooled cookies.
Notes
- Use Grade A dark maple syrup for a richer flavor.
- Top with chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
