Description
These delightful maple cookies are soft, tender, and bursting with the rich, warm flavor of maple syrup. Topped with a luscious maple icing, they are the perfect treat for any occasion, from a cozy afternoon snack to a festive holiday dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Maple Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Beat in the egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
Step 7: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool completely on wire racks.
Step 8: To prepare the maple icing, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Adjust milk quantity to achieve a spreadable consistency.
Step 9: Spread or pipe the maple icing onto cooled cookies. Allow icing to set before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These maple cookies are incredibly easy to make and require minimal ingredients. The soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the distinct maple flavor makes them irresistible. The maple icing adds an extra layer of sweetness and enhances the overall maple experience. They are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with loved ones.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee or tea.
- Serve them as part of a dessert platter for holidays or special occasions.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet treat.
- Pair them with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Tips:
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and maintain cookie shape.
- For a stronger maple flavor, brush cookies with a thin layer of maple syrup before icing.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- You can freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw them completely before icing.
- For a decorative touch, sprinkle chopped nuts or maple flakes on top of the icing.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Nutrition Information: (per cookie)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
Conclusion
These maple cookies with maple icing are a delightful treat that will impress anyone who tries them. The combination of soft cookies and sweet maple flavor makes them a perfect dessert for any occasion. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, you can bake a batch of these cookies in no time. Enjoy the taste of maple in every bite!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use artificial maple syrup instead of pure maple syrup?
A: While you can use artificial maple syrup, the flavor won’t be as rich and authentic. Pure maple syrup provides a distinct and natural sweetness that enhances the overall taste of the cookies and icing.
Q2: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum for better texture.
Q3: How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?
A: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking helps to prevent the cookies from spreading. Also, make sure your oven is at the correct temperature.
Q4: Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?
A: Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds would be a delicious addition to the cookie dough. Add about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the dough along with the dry ingredients.
Q5: How do I store the leftover cookies?
A: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.
DRINK Rating:
These cookies pair excellently with milk, coffee or tea. They would also complement a glass of bourbon.
