Maple Glazed Cookies are a delicious, soft, and chewy cookie with a rich maple glaze that adds a sweet and warm flavor. These cookies are perfect for fall or winter baking, but they’re a treat that can be enjoyed year-round. The hint of maple in both the cookie and glaze makes these a crowd-pleasing favorite for holidays, gatherings, or simply an afternoon snack.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for added warmth)
For the Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream (to thin the glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon of dough each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Gently press down on each cookie ball to flatten them slightly.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. Do not overbake as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Maple Glaze
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Add 1 tablespoon of milk or cream at a time until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. It should be thick but pourable.
Step 7: Glaze the Cookies
- Once the cookies are fully cooled, drizzle or spread the maple glaze over the tops of the cookies. You can use a spoon to drizzle the glaze or dip the tops of the cookies into the glaze for a more even coating.
- Let the glaze set for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cook Notes
- Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. Maple-flavored syrup can be used in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as rich.
- Glaze Consistency: If the glaze is too thick, add more milk or cream in small amounts until it’s thin enough to drizzle or spread. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
- Storing: Store the glazed cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Variations
- Maple Pecan Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the cookie dough for a nutty, crunchy texture.
- Maple Cinnamon Sugar: Roll the cookie dough balls in cinnamon sugar before baking for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
- Brown Butter Maple Cookies: Brown the butter before mixing it into the cookie dough for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 2 days before baking. Let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling and baking.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls or the baked (unglazed) cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw the dough before baking, and if freezing baked cookies, glaze them after thawing.
How do I store leftover glaze?
If you have leftover glaze, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Re-whisk and add a little more milk or syrup to thin it out if needed before using.
What can I serve with maple glazed cookies?
These cookies are perfect with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter during the holidays.
Maple Glazed Cookies are a wonderfully sweet and spiced treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a soft, chewy texture and a rich maple glaze, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Bake them for a cozy dessert, a holiday treat, or just to enjoy the comforting flavor of maple syrup in every bite!
