Maple Cookies with Maple Icing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These melt-in-your-mouth Maple Cookies with Maple Icing capture the essence of pure maple syrup in every bite. The cookies themselves are soft and buttery, while the maple icing adds an extra layer of sweetness that makes them utterly irresistible. They’re perfect for fall gatherings, holiday cookie exchanges, or anytime you’re craving that distinct maple flavor.

Pure Comfort

There’s something nostalgic about the warm, sweet aroma of maple that fills your kitchen while these cookies bake. Like a cozy autumn morning or a winter day spent in a cabin, these cookies bring comfort with every bite. The combination of soft cookie and smooth icing creates a texture that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
1 cup pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Maple Icing:

2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
2-3 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

What You Need

Stand mixer or hand mixer
Large mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Cookie sheets
Parchment paper
Wire cooling racks
Medium bowl for icing
Whisk
Cookie scoop or spoon
Offset spatula for icing

Time to Cook

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Bake Time: 12-14 minutes per batch
Icing Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling)

Steps to Make It

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream butter and brown sugar in a stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Beat in egg, maple syrup, and vanilla until well combined.
Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
Cover dough and refrigerate for 2 hours.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop chilled dough into 1.5-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on prepared sheets.
Bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Cool on sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
For icing, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Once cookies are completely cool, spread with maple icing.

Make It Perfect

Use pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup, for the best flavor
Ensure butter is truly softened but not melted
Don’t skip the chilling time – it prevents spreading
Let cookies cool completely before icing
Adjust icing consistency with more milk or powdered sugar as needed

Mix It Up

Try these variations:

Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans to the dough
Sprinkle with maple sugar before baking
Mix in 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for warmth
Drizzle with melted white chocolate

Perfect Partners

Serve these cookies with:

Hot apple cider
Coffee or tea
Vanilla ice cream
Fresh fruit

Busy Day Hero

Make the dough ahead and refrigerate overnight. You can also freeze shaped cookie dough balls for up to 3 months and bake as needed.

Work Ahead

The cookies can be baked up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container. Ice them the day you plan to serve for best results.

Save Some For Later

Store iced cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Freeze uniced cookies for up to 3 months.

Everyone’s Happy

These cookies are a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults. They’re fancy enough for special occasions but simple enough for everyday treats.

Good For You Too

While these are definitely treats, using pure maple syrup adds beneficial minerals and antioxidants. You can also reduce sugar content by making a thinner layer of icing.

Easy Clean Up

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup. When making icing, mix it in a liquid measuring cup for easy pouring.

Switch It Up

Make sandwich cookies with maple buttercream filling
Turn them into thumbprint cookies filled with maple cream
Add maple extract for more intense flavor
Make them gluten-free using a 1:1 flour substitute

Simply Perfect

These Maple Cookies with Maple Icing strike the perfect balance between sophisticated and simple. They’re impressive enough for gifting but easy enough for beginning bakers.

FAQs

Can I use artificial maple flavoring?
While possible, real maple syrup provides the best flavor.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
The dough might have been too warm or the butter too soft.
Can I make these without a mixer?
Yes, but ensure butter is very soft and prepare for an arm workout!
Why isn’t my icing setting?
Add more powdered sugar for a firmer consistency.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it doubles well with no adjustments needed.
How do I know when they’re done?
Edges should be lightly golden, centers still soft.
Can I ship these cookies?
Yes, but pack carefully and consider shipping uniced.

Conclusion

These Maple Cookies with Maple Icing are more than just cookies – they’re a celebration of one of nature’s most beloved flavors. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results that will have everyone asking for the recipe. The combination of soft, maple-infused cookies and sweet maple icing creates a treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to holiday gifting. Give them a try, and watch them become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Additional Reading: Explore More Delectable Recipes

If you loved these Maple Cookies with Maple Icing, you’ll adore some other delightful creations that perfectly complement this sweet treat. Why not try pairing them with a comforting slice of Apple Butter Cookies – Soft and Spiced or the decadent Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake? For those who crave the fusion of crispy and gooey, the Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs offer a savory twist.

You might also enjoy our signature Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake for a citrusy touch or the delightful Mint Chocolate Fudge Cheesecake Cake for chocolate lovers. If you’re looking for something light yet satisfying, the Fluffy Cottage Cheese Cloud Bread will surprise you. Finally, don’t miss the indulgent Maple Bacon Waffle Burger for a unique and hearty treat.

Dive into these recipes for a full spectrum of flavors that will elevate your culinary experience!