Indulge in the sublime sweetness of these Iced Maple Sugar Cookies, a delightful twist on a classic favorite that promises to captivate your taste buds. Soft, irresistibly chewy, and brimming with the rich, unmistakable essence of pure maple syrup, these cookies are an absolute must-bake for any season. If you already cherish the simple elegance of a sugar cookie, prepare to be wonderfully surprised by how a touch of maple can elevate them to an entirely new level of decadence and warmth.
Calling all maple enthusiasts! I have a truly special treat that’s perfect for the festive holiday season, yet equally enchanting any time of year: these incredible Iced Maple Sugar Cookies. They embody perfection in every bite – boasting a light, slightly crisp exterior that gives way to a wonderfully tender and chewy interior. Each cookie is generously drizzled with a luxurious maple vanilla glaze, adding another layer of sweet, aromatic goodness. Imagine Santa’s delight finding a plate of these alongside his milk, but don’t limit their magic; they’re ideal whenever you crave that comforting, sweet taste of authentic maple syrup.
Discover the Magic of Iced Maple Sugar Cookies
Our beloved classic sugar cookie recipe receives a sophisticated upgrade with the infusion of maple, transforming it into something truly extraordinary. The harmonious blend of sweet, amber maple syrup and the familiar, melt-in-your-mouth vanilla base creates an irresistible flavor profile. But the maple journey doesn’t end there! A luscious maple syrup icing generously coats each cookie, intensifying the maple goodness and contributing to a soft, chewy texture that explodes with flavor. These aren’t just cookies; they’re a sensory experience, a testament to how simple additions can create profound culinary delight.
Versatile Maple Cookies for Every Occasion
While these soft, delectable maple cookies are an exceptional addition to any holiday celebration, their charm extends far beyond the festive period. They are a true year-round indulgence! Picture them as the star of your next cookie exchange, a sell-out hit at a bake sale, or a thoughtful homemade gift for cherished neighbors and friends. Beyond special events, they are simply perfect for those quiet moments when you desire a sweet companion for your morning coffee or afternoon tea, or a comforting treat alongside a tall glass of milk. Their versatility makes them a staple in any baker’s repertoire.
If you find yourself enchanted by this recipe for iced maple sugar cookies, you’ll undoubtedly adore these other delightful variations:
- Funfetti Sugar Cookies
- Old Fashioned Frosted Sour Cream Sugar Cookies
- Old Fashioned Sugar Cookies
Effortless Maple Sugar Cookie Perfection
You’ll be delighted by how straightforward these instructions are, leading you effortlessly to a kitchen filled with the inviting aroma of maple sugar cookies baking in the oven. There’s truly nothing quite as comforting as the scent of freshly baked goods, especially when they are infused with such a rich, sweet maple flavor. This recipe is designed for both novice and experienced bakers, ensuring a successful and delicious outcome every time.
These cookies are also incredibly adaptable, serving as a blank canvas for your creativity. Planning to serve them at a festive gathering or a special celebration? Feel free to personalize them! Add a festive touch with colorful sprinkles, introduce a delightful texture with chocolate chips, or infuse a tart sweetness with cranberries or raisins. Whatever embellishments you choose, these cookies are designed to be customized to your heart’s desire, making them uniquely yours.
Essential Ingredients for Iced Maple Sugar Cookies
Crafting these sensational iced maple sugar cookies requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving their perfect taste and texture. For a comprehensive list of quantities and detailed instructions, remember to scroll to the bottom of this post for the full printable recipe card. However, let’s dive into what makes these cookies so special.
Cookie Ingredients:
- Shortening: This key ingredient contributes to the incredibly soft and tender crumb of the cookies, ensuring they don’t become too crisp.
- Butter: Softened, either salted or unsalted, butter adds richness and a delightful flavor depth to the cookie base.
- Sugar: A balanced combination of brown sugar and white granulated sugar is used to create these fluffy, perfectly sweet cookies. Brown sugar adds moisture and a slight chewiness, while granulated sugar contributes to the classic sugar cookie structure.
- Maple Syrup: The star of the show! Pure maple syrup is essential for imparting that authentic, decadent maple flavor that sets these cookies apart.
- Cream of Tartar: This ingredient is vital for stabilizing the sugar and preventing crystallization, which helps maintain the cookies’ soft texture. It also interacts with baking soda to give a slight lift.
- Baking Soda: A touch of baking soda works with the cream of tartar to ensure the cookies rise just enough, contributing to their pleasant texture.
- Salt: A pinch of salt is added to enhance and balance all the sweet flavors, preventing the cookies from tasting overly saccharine.
- Egg Yolks: Using only egg yolks provides richness, moisture, and a wonderfully tender texture to the cookies. Save those whites for another culinary creation like an omelet or meringue!
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is crucial for the best flavor, complementing the maple beautifully and adding a classic warmth.
- All-Purpose Flour: Unbleached all-purpose flour forms the structural base of these delicious sugar cookies, ensuring a consistent and reliable result.
Maple Icing Ingredients:
- Milk: Whole milk is recommended for a richer, creamier icing, but skim milk can also be used if preferred, with slight adjustments to consistency.
- Butter: Melted butter (salted or unsalted) forms the base of this luscious maple cookie frosting, adding a smooth texture and flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Another generous addition of pure maple syrup ensures an intense and authentic maple flavor in the frosting, perfectly complementing the cookies.
- Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar or icing sugar, this finely milled sugar is what gives the frosting its smooth, drippy consistency.
Crafting Your Homemade Maple Cookies
Get ready to bake! These delicious homemade maple cookies come together with surprising speed and ease, making them a perfect project for any day. Follow these simple steps to achieve perfect results every time:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). This lower temperature allows the cookies to bake evenly and remain soft without browning too quickly.
- Cream the Fats: In a large mixing bowl, or the bowl of your electric stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the softened butter and shortening. Beat them together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined, typically for 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air, contributing to the cookie’s tender texture.
- Add Dry & Maple Ingredients: Gradually add both the brown and granulated sugars, the pure maple syrup, salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar to the creamed fats. Beat this mixture for another 2 minutes, ensuring everything is thoroughly incorporated. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula as needed to catch any stray ingredients.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Overmixing at this stage can lead to tough cookies.
- Mix in Flour: Finally, add the all-purpose flour gradually. Mix on low speed until the flour is just combined and no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix the dough. The mixture will be soft and pliable.
Baking & Cooling Your Maple Sugar Cookies
- Shape the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, shape the sugar cookie dough into uniform 1 ½-inch balls. Place these dough balls about 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet. Even sizing ensures consistent baking.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes. The cookies will still appear soft in the center, but their edges should be a light golden brown. It’s crucial not to overbake them, as this will prevent these naturally chewy maple cookies from retaining their signature soft interior.
- Cooling Process: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a brief 2 minutes. This initial cooling helps them firm up slightly before you carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling completely is essential before applying the icing.
Preparing and Applying the Maple Icing
- Make the Icing: While the cookies are cooling, prepare the exquisite maple icing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and pure maple syrup until well combined. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar, a little at a time, until you achieve your desired drizzling consistency. For a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar; for a thinner glaze, add a tiny bit more milk or maple syrup.
- Drizzle and Set: Once the cookies are completely cool, artfully drizzle the sweet maple icing over each one. For a neat finish, allow the icing to set undisturbed for at least 30 minutes before storing.
Storage Tips: Leftover iced maple cookies will stay wonderfully fresh for up to one week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature, ideally wrapped loosely in plastic wrap to prevent drying. For longer preservation, these cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer in a freezer bag or airtight container, separated by parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Loved These Maple Cookies? Pin for Later!
If you’ve fallen in love with this recipe for soft and chewy maple sugar cookies, don’t let it get lost in the shuffle! Make sure to save it for future baking adventures. Pin this recipe to your favorite Pinterest recipe board now so you can easily find it whenever that maple craving strikes!
FAQs About Iced Maple Sugar Cookies
Curious about perfecting your iced maple sugar cookies? Here are some frequently asked questions to guide you:
- What is the best way to ice sugar cookies for a smooth finish? For the best results, always wait until your sugar cookies are completely cooled before applying any icing. Use a large spoon or a small ladle to gently drop the icing onto the center of each cookie. Then, use a small offset spatula or the back of the spoon to carefully spread the icing, ensuring it evenly covers the entire surface of the cookie. This method helps achieve a smooth, professional-looking glaze.
- What type of icing is ideal for maple cookies? The best type of icing truly depends on your desired outcome and personal preference. For these particular maple cookies, a simple maple glaze or a thin maple royal icing is fantastic, as it highlights the maple flavor without being too heavy. If you aim for intricate decorations, royal icing is an excellent choice as it dries hard and shiny, holding its shape beautifully. For a softer, creamier topping, a light buttercream icing would also work wonderfully, though it won’t set as firm as royal icing.
- Why is chilling sugar cookie dough often recommended? Chilling sugar cookie dough is a critical step for several reasons. Primarily, it solidifies the butter or shortening in the dough, which prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. This results in cookies that hold their shape better, have crisper edges, and maintain a consistent thickness, leading to a more aesthetically pleasing and texturally satisfying cookie.
- How can I enhance or “jazz up” my maple sugar cookies? Think of sugar cookies as a delightful blank canvas! To elevate your iced maple sugar cookies, you can add various elements:
- Mix in mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks to the dough for an added layer of sweetness.
- Sprinkle on colorful jimmies or nonpareils for a festive look, especially for holidays or parties.
- Fold in toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist and added texture.
- Beyond the simple drizzle, you can fully cover the cookies with the maple glaze for a more intense flavor and visual impact.
- Experiment with a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the wet glaze for a warm, spiced aroma.
Clever Substitutions for Your Maple Cookie Recipe
When it comes to baking, don’t hesitate to embrace your creativity and tailor recipes to your personal tastes or dietary needs. Making substitutions can lead to wonderful discoveries and ensure everyone can enjoy these delicious cookies!
Shortening Alternative: If you don’t have any shortening readily available, you can easily use an equal amount of butter instead. This will result in a slightly different texture, perhaps a bit less tender, but still delicious.
Non-Dairy Version: For those seeking a dairy-free option, simply substitute vegan butter for regular butter and use your preferred plant-based milk (such as almond milk or oat milk) in both the cookie dough and the icing. Ensure your shortening is also plant-based.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: To make these wonderful cookies gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a high-quality 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Look for blends that specifically state they can be used as a direct substitute in recipes. You may need slight adjustments to liquid or baking time depending on the blend.
Expert Tips & Tricks for Perfect Maple Sugar Cookies
Achieving bakery-quality iced maple sugar cookies is easier than you think with these helpful tips and tricks:
Softened Butter is Key: Always ensure your butter is properly softened to room temperature. This allows it to cream smoothly with the shortening and sugars, creating a light, airy base for your cookies.
Room Temperature Eggs: Like butter, bring your egg yolks to room temperature before you begin mixing. Room temperature eggs emulsify better with the other ingredients, leading to a more uniform and tender dough.
Don’t Waste Egg Whites: Since this recipe only calls for egg yolks, don’t let those egg whites go to waste! Save them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a few days. They’re perfect for making a fluffy omelet or a delicate meringue.
Quality Maple Syrup Matters: For the most authentic and robust maple flavor, invest in good quality pure maple syrup. Avoid artificial maple-flavored syrups, as they won’t deliver the same depth and richness that define these cookies.
Uniform Portions: For perfectly uniform cookies that bake at the same rate, use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to portion your dough. This consistency ensures every cookie is cooked through without some being overdone while others are underbaked.
Boost Maple Flavor: For an even more intense maple experience, consider adding a tiny dash of maple extract (start with ¼ teaspoon) along with the vanilla extract. A little goes a long way!
Warm Spices: To introduce a cozy, comforting flavor, sprinkle in some warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of allspice to your cookie dough. These spices beautifully complement the maple, especially during cooler months or holidays.
This delightful recipe is proudly part of The Sweetest Season, an annual virtual cookie swap event. Co-hosted by Erin of The Speckled Palate and Susannah of Feast + West, this initiative brings together food bloggers each year to share new and exciting holiday cookie recipes perfect for baking and gifting.
Beyond the joy of baking, we are once again dedicated to raising vital funds for Cookies 4 Kids’ Cancer. This recognized 501(c)3 non-profit organization is passionately committed to funding research for new, innovative, and less-toxic treatments for childhood cancer. Since its inception in 2008, Cookies for Kids’ Cancer has awarded nearly $18 million to pediatric cancer research, distributing over 100 research grants to leading pediatric cancer centers across the nation. These grants have directly led to over 35 new treatments now available to children bravely battling cancer.
Join us in supporting this incredibly important cause! You can make a difference by donating through our dedicated fundraising page.
Adding to the excitement, Cookies for Kids’ Cancer is currently in a special matching period with their generous friends at OXO. This means OXO will match every dollar raised through the end of 2023, up to an incredible $100,000. Every contribution we make will automatically double on our fundraising page, maximizing our impact for these deserving children!
More Irresistible Recipes to Love
If you enjoyed the sweet flavors and simple baking of these iced maple sugar cookies, be sure to explore more delightful treats from our collection:
Frosted Soft Pumpkin Cookies (pictured above) – A comforting fall favorite with a creamy frosting.
Snickerdoodle Thumbprint Cookies – A classic with a sweet surprise center.
Chewy Glazed Lemon Cookies – Zesty, bright, and wonderfully chewy.
Bailey’s Chocolate Chip Cookies – An adult twist on a beloved classic.
Cornflake Crispy Cookies – A delightful texture with every bite.
As you plan your holiday baking or simply seek a comforting treat, these perfect maple cookies are an exceptional choice. Their unique blend of classic sugar cookie appeal with the rich, inviting flavor of maple ensures they’re bound to become a cherished family tradition for years to come. Enjoy the magic of baking and the joy these cookies bring!
LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!
Print Recipe
Iced Maple Sugar Cookies
Soft, chewy, and loaded with maple flavor, these Iced Maple Sugar Cookies are a definite must. If you’re a fan of sugar cookies you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much more decadent they can be with the simple addition of maple syrup.
10 mins
14 mins
24 mins
Cookies
American
iced maple cookies, maple cookie frosting, maple cookies, maple icing, maple sugar cookies, Sugar Cookies
20 cookies
280kcal
Michaela Kenkel
Equipment
- Whisks for Cooking, 3 Pack Stainless Steel Whisk
- Kitchenaid Stand Mixer
- KitchenAid Hand Mixer
- Wilton Stainless Steel Cookie Scoop
- Wilton Performance Pans Aluminum Jelly Roll and Cookie Pan, 10.5 x 15.5-Inch
- 15 x 10 x 1-Inch Cookie/Jelly Roll Pan
Ingredients
- FOR THE COOKIE:
- ½ cup shortening
- ½ cup butter softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup sugar
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3 egg yolks
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- FOR THE ICING:
- ¼ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup butter melted
- 3 Tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.
- In the bowl of your mixer beat butter and shortening together until fluffy.
- Add in both sugars, maple syrup, salt, baking soda and cream of tartar and beat for 2 minutes, scrape the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Beat in egg yolks and vanilla.
- Mix in flour until combined.
- Shape the dough into 1 ½” balls. Place on ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes. Cookies will still look soft but the edges will be light golden brown. (Don’t overbake or the cookies will not be soft)
- Cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the icing by whisking together milk, butter, and maple syrup. Whisk the powdered sugar in a little at a time until you reach your desired drizzling consistency.
- Drizzle maple icing over the cookies. Let the icing set before storing them in an airtight container.