Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a secret… well, not really a secret anymore! It’s my Grandma Elsie’s What is the recipe for maple cookies?, and let me tell you, these aren’t your average sugar cookies. Forget painstakingly rolling out dough and meticulously cutting shapes; these are soft, melt-in-your-mouth clouds of maple goodness, and they’re surprisingly simple to whip up. I like to think of them as a cross between a snickerdoodle and a shortbread, but with that distinct, comforting maple flavor. If you’re looking for a cookie that’s easy enough for a weeknight baking session but impressive enough for a holiday cookie swap, you’ve found it. I swear, every time I make these, the house smells like a Vermont sugar shack – pure heaven!
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What is the recipe for Maple Cookies?
So, what are we talking about when we say What is the recipe for maple cookies?? These cookies are all about showcasing the rich, warm flavor of maple syrup. Think of it as a tender, buttery cookie, infused with the sweet aroma of maple, and then topped with a simple, glossy maple glaze. It’s essentially comfort food in cookie form. They aren’t too dense, and they aren’t overly sweet, it’s really the perfect balance, and the maple flavor really shines through. Grandma Elsie always said that using real maple syrup is key – none of that artificial stuff! And she was right. It makes all the difference. My grandmother created this recipe ages ago in our family, and it has stood the test of time.
Why you will love this recipe?
Where do I start?maple cookies recipe is a winner. First and foremost, the flavor is simply incredible. The combination of buttery cookie with that distinct maple sweetness is just divine. It’s a taste that evokes cozy fall days and holiday cheer, all rolled into one little bite. And, let me tell you, these cookies are unbelievably easy to make. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated techniques. The recipe uses basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. I also appreciate how cost-effective this recipe is. Real maple syrup can be a little pricey, but you don’t need a ton for these cookies, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples. I find it very wallet friendly to make this maple cookies recipe. And talk about versatile! These cookies are perfect on their own with a cup of coffee or tea, but they also pair wonderfully with ice cream, fruit, or even a simple glass of milk. I love serving them at holiday gatherings, but they’re also a fantastic treat for a cozy night in. What I love most about this recipe is the nostalgia it brings. Every time I bake these maple cookies, I’m instantly transported back to my Grandma Elsie’s kitchen, filled with warmth, laughter, and the sweet aroma of maple syrup.
How do you make maple cookies?
Quick Overview
Making this What is the recipe for maple cookies? is a breeze! You’ll start by creaming together butter and sugar, then adding in the maple syrup and other wet ingredients. Next, you’ll gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until just combined. Then, you’ll scoop the dough onto baking sheets and bake until golden brown. While the cookies are cooling, you’ll whip up a simple maple glaze and drizzle it over the top. The best part? No chilling required! These cookies come together quickly and easily, making them perfect for when you need a sweet treat in a hurry. You will be surprised that no chill time is needed!
Ingredients
What is Maple Cookies?
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Make sure your butter is truly soften – not melted! Is it soft enough to press a finger into, but still hold its shape?
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Regular white sugar works best here.
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: 1 cup. This adds a touch of molasses flavor that complements the maple perfectly.
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup: This is the star of the show, so use the good stuff! I prefer Grade A dark amber for its rich flavor, but any pure maple syrup will work.
- What is the best way to cook an egg at room temperature?
- What is the best vanilla extract?
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Spoon and level your flour for accurate measuring.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cookies rise and become tender.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt balances out the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
For the Maple Glaze: For a maple glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sift your powder-egg sugar to remove any lumps.
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Again, use the good stuff!
- 2-4 tablespoons milk or heavy cream: Start with 2 tablespoons and add more until you reach your desired consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Optional, but it adds a lovely touch of flavor.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. I always do this because I hate scrubbing baking sheets!
Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. You want the mixture to be pale and airy, so don’t rush this step. It’s crucial for creating a tender cookie. Trust me!
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the maple syrup, egg, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed. Is there a way to make the mixture look curdled at this point?
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix the dough, as this can result in hard cookies. Is it too wet?
Step 5: Scoop & Bake
Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Don’t overbake them, they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 6: Cool
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to cling film. To cool completely. This prevents them from breaking apart.
Step 7: Make the Glaze
While cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Set aside. Is it safe to use milk or cream until smooth? Add more milk or cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. How do I make a thin layer of icing for cookies?
Step 8: Glaze
Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Use a spoon, fork, or piping bag. Let the glaze set for about 30 minutes before serving.
Step 9: Serve
What are some of the best ketmaple cookiesWith a cup of coffee, tea, or milk, they’re perfect for any occasion.
What should I serve it with?
These maple cookiesCan you serve these with a hot cup of coffee or chai latte? Is it good to crumble them over yogurt or oatmeal? What are the best ways to enjoy hot chocolate in the winter? For brunch, arrange them on a pretty platter alongside fresh fruit, cheeses, and an assortment of side dishes. What are some great side dishes to serve at brunch? As a dessert, these cookies are fantastic on their own, but they’re also delicious served with ice cream. Is it a good idea to serve vanilla ice cream with whipped cream? What are some good ways to serve a slice of toast with maple syrup? I like to serve my snacks with a glass of cold milk or herbal tea. What are some good ways to enjoy a cup of tea at home? Is it a family tradition?
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Maple Cookies
Want to take your maple cookies recipe to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years. Make sure your butter is properly softened, but not melted. This is essential for creating a tender cookie. If your butter is too soft, the cookies will spread too much in the oven. Don’t overmix the dough. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined. For a richer maple flavor, use Grade A dark amber maple syrup. It has a more intense flavor than lighter grades. You can also add a pinch of maple extract to the dough or glaze for an extra boost of flavor. Experiment with different extracts in the glaze. I like to add a touch of almond extract or even a little bit of bourbon for a more sophisticated flavor. If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, you can freeze the dough. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Don’t overbake the cookies! They should be golden brown around the edges, but still slightly soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool. If you want to add a little extra crunch, try sprinkling the cookies with chopped nuts before baking. Pecans or walnuts would be delicious. If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, you can use honey or brown rice syrup as a substitute, but the flavor will be slightly different. I’ve also used a little bit of molasses in a pinch and it worked out great, just keep the quantity small.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These maple cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later. At room temperature, store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies. The bread will absorb any excess moisture and prevent the cookies from becoming stale. I always do this! In the refrigerator, store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Before serving, let them come to room temperature for a few minutes to soften. For freezer storage, wrap the cookies individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few hours or overnight. It’s very important to wrap them individually! If you’re planning to freeze the cookies, it’s best to wait to add the glaze until after they’ve been thawed. The glaze can become sticky and messy when frozen and thawed. Alternatively, you can freeze the unglazed cookies and then make a fresh batch of glaze when you’re ready to serve them. You can reheat the cookies in the oven or microwave. To reheat in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. To reheat in the microwave, microwave for 10-15 seconds per cookie. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the cookies dry and crumbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my Grandma Elsie’s famous maple cookies recipe! I hope you’ll give it a try and experience the warmth and joy that these cookies bring. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my other cookie recipes, including my classic chocolate chip cookies and my peanut butter blossoms. And if you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know your thoughts and any variations you tried. Happy baking!
