Maple Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, sweet treat that perfectly captures the warmth of maple syrup, these Maple Cookies with Maple Icing are an absolute dream. Soft, tender cookies infused with a rich maple flavor come topped with a luscious, silky maple icing that’s both sweet and satisfyingly smooth. Every bite delivers that classic maple goodness in a way that makes you feel right at home, whether it’s for a family gathering, a special dessert, or just a treat to brighten your afternoon tea. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become your go-to cookie for showing off the magic of maple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s fantastic about the ingredients for these cookies is that they’re simple and pantry-friendly, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect maple cookie experience. From creamy butter to pure maple syrup, every component adds depth, flavor, and texture to your final masterpiece.

• Unsalted butter (for cookie base): Provides a rich, creamy foundation and tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a light, fluffy cookie texture.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cookies’ softness.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness; can substitute with milk plus lemon juice or vinegar.
• Salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors, making the maple notes pop.
• Vanilla extract: Deepens flavor and complements the maple perfectly.
• Maple extract: The star player providing that unmistakable maple aroma and taste.
• Baking soda and baking powder: Work together to give the cookies just the right rise and softness.
• All-purpose flour: The structure that holds everything together while allowing for that tender bite.
• Unsalted butter (for icing): Creates the velvety base of the maple icing with buttery richness.
• Brown sugar: Gives the icing a deep caramel undertone that complements the maple syrup.
• Milk: Adjusts consistency and keeps the icing smooth.
• Pure maple syrup: Infuses the icing with real maple flavor—don’t settle for anything less.
• Pinch of salt (icing): Balances sweetness for a well-rounded finish.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the icing to the ideal shiny glaze.

How to Make Maple Cookies with Maple Icing

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper—this little step ensures the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. Begin creaming the softened butter and granulated sugar together; this takes about 5 minutes on medium speed and is key to getting that fluffy, tender cookie base. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly each time to keep the dough smooth and well-combined. Slowly pour in the buttermilk while mixing on low to maintain the soft texture. Next, stir in salt, vanilla, maple extract, baking soda, and baking powder, which together help the cookies rise nicely and pack that maple punch. Finally, add the all-purpose flour in two additions, mixing just until everything comes together—the dough will feel soft and slightly sticky, which is perfect!

Step 2: Bake the Cookies

Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread without merging. Pop them in the oven and bake for 6 to 8 minutes—watch closely for golden edges and just the beginning of golden on top to avoid overbaking, which can lead to loss of that delightful softness. Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the sheets briefly before transferring them to wire racks; cooling is essential so the icing won’t melt when applied.

Step 3: Prepare the Maple Icing

Now for the icing that takes these maple cookies to another level. Melt butter and brown sugar together in a saucepan over medium heat, whisking constantly as the mixture boils for 2 full minutes—this step caramelizes the sugars and creates a rich base. Add the milk, pure maple syrup, and a pinch of salt, bringing it back to a boil for one minute while whisking to incorporate everything smoothly. Take the pan off the heat and let it cool for 15 minutes—this cooling prevents the powdered sugar from clumping. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until the icing thickens into a glue-like, spreadable consistency. If it feels too thick, add milk by the tablespoon until perfect.

Step 4: Ice the Cookies

Spread the maple icing generously over the completely cooled cookies. Work quickly because this icing will thicken as it cools. If you need to thin it out again, just add a little milk. Allow the icing to set before storing—this way, you get that beautiful, shiny finish and a deliciously sticky bite each time.

How to Serve Maple Cookies with Maple Icing

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the icing adds an eye-catching crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft cookies. If you want a little extra flair, try a light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg to bring a warm spice note that complements the maple perfectly.

Side Dishes

These cookies shine when paired with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk. If you’re serving as part of a larger dessert spread, think about adding whipped cream or vanilla ice cream alongside for contrast in temperature and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your maple cookies with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting between as a delightful sandwich cookie. Or arrange them on a rustic wooden board topped with sprigs of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to bring an unexpected, charming aroma that enhances the natural maple flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once iced and fully set, keep your maple cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft texture and fresh flavor. Layer them carefully with parchment paper to avoid the icing sticking to other cookies.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies either plain or iced. For best results, freeze the un-iced cookies in single layers on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before icing. If you freeze them after icing, place parchment paper between layers and allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, gently warm the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving iced cookies too long, as it can melt the icing unevenly. This simple step revives the soft texture and makes the maple aroma soar.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute buttermilk by mixing 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly before using—it gives the same tangy moisture that buttermilk provides.

Is maple extract necessary if I am already using maple syrup?

Yes, because pure maple syrup adds sweetness and moisture, but maple extract delivers a more concentrated maple flavor and aroma that really makes these cookies sing.

How thick should the maple icing be?

The maple icing should have a glue-like consistency—thick enough to hold on the back of a spoon but still spreadable. If it’s too thin, it will run off the cookies; if too thick, add a splash of milk to reach the perfect texture.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar for the icing?

Brown sugar is best here because it gives a rich caramel undertone that complements maple perfectly. If you must substitute, light molasses or coconut sugar might work, but expect slight differences in flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the cookies from getting too hard?

The secret is not overbaking the cookies and proper storage in an airtight container once iced. Slightly underbaking ensures a tender, soft cookie, which pairs beautifully with the smooth icing.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about Maple Cookies with Maple Icing—a simple yet indulgent treat that feels like a big hug in cookie form. Easy to make, with familiar ingredients that come together for spectacular flavor, this recipe is perfect for maple lovers or anyone craving a sweet, cozy bite. So why not gather your favorite mixing bowl and get ready to bake? Your sweet tooth will thank you, and your friends and family will be asking for seconds before you know it!

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