Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These maple cookies with maple icing are the perfect blend of rich, sweet flavors and warm spices. The cookies are soft and chewy, with the natural sweetness of maple syrup shining through. Topped with a decadent brown butter icing and a hint of cinnamon, this treat is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether for a cozy afternoon snack or a festive dessert, these maple cookies are a delightful choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup brown sugar

• ½ cup pure maple syrup (Grade A for best flavor)

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Brown Butter Icing:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar

• 2 tbsp maple syrup

• 1-2 tbsp milk

• ¼ tsp cinnamon (optional)

Garnish:

• Flaky sea salt or chopped pecans

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden and the centers have set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. For the icing: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma, about 4-5 minutes.

9. Remove from heat and stir in the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and cinnamon (if using). Add milk a tablespoon at a time until the icing reaches your desired consistency.

10. Drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with flaky sea salt or chopped pecans for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields about 24 cookies, depending on the size.

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

• Cooling Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Option: Swap the butter for dairy-free butter and use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) in place of the egg.

• Nut-Free: Omit the pecans and sea salt for a nut-free version.

• Maple Pecan: Fold chopped pecans into the cookie dough for added crunch and flavor.

• Spice Variation: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dough for a spiced-up version of the cookies.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies without icing in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Warm up the cookies in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes if you’d like to enjoy them slightly warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use any kind of maple syrup for this recipe?

Yes, but Grade A maple syrup will provide the best flavor. It’s lighter and more refined, making it ideal for baking.

2. How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be golden around the edges and have a soft center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready, scoop and bake as usual.

4. Can I use a store-bought icing instead of the brown butter icing?

Certainly! A premade maple glaze or icing will work as a shortcut if you don’t want to make the brown butter icing from scratch.

5. What can I substitute for brown sugar?

You can substitute brown sugar with an equal amount of granulated sugar, though brown sugar adds a richer flavor.

6. Do these cookies freeze well?

Yes, the cookies freeze very well! Just freeze them without the icing and ice them once they are thawed.

7. How do I make the brown butter icing thicker or thinner?

To thicken the icing, add more powdered sugar. To thin it out, add more milk in small amounts.

8. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free.

9. How do I avoid the cookies spreading too much during baking?

Ensure your butter is softened but not too melted, and avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to spreading. Chill the dough before baking for extra control.

10. Can I add other flavorings to the icing?

Definitely! You can add a bit of vanilla extract or even a splash of bourbon for a unique twist.

Conclusion

These maple cookies with maple icing offer a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and buttery flavors that make for an irresistible treat. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or simply to indulge in something delicious, these cookies will surely become a favorite. With the right balance of maple syrup, brown butter icing, and a touch of cinnamon, they deliver an unforgettable taste. Enjoy baking and savoring these delightful cookies!