Name: Maple cookies with maple icing Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; ½ cup pure maple syrup (Grade A for best flavor); 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ cup unsalted butter; 1 ½ cups powdered sugar; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1-2 tbsp milk; ¼ tsp cinnamon (optional); Flaky sea salt or chopped pecans

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 6 reviews

If you’re craving pure comfort in a cookie, these Maple cookies with maple icing might just become your new baking obsession. Imagine melt-in-your-mouth cookies, warmly spiced and packed with real maple flavor, topped with a luscious brown butter icing that takes things to a totally new level. This is the recipe I turn to when I want my kitchen to smell like fall all year long and share a treat that always has my friends asking for the recipe!

Maple cookies with maple icing Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Great cookies start with great ingredients, and this recipe is filled with basics you probably already have on hand, with just a few special touches to bring out that irresistible maple flavor. Here’s exactly what you’ll need, along with why each item is so important.

All-purpose flour: Gives the cookies their structure and tender crumb.
Baking soda: Ensures your cookies turn out perfectly soft and just a little puffy.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances those maple and cinnamon notes.
Cinnamon: Adds a whisper of warmth, making every bite cozy and aromatic.
Unsalted butter (softened for cookies, and separate for icing): Provides richness and great flavor, and lets you control the salt level.
Brown sugar: Lends caramel-like depth and helps keep the cookies moist and chewy.
Pure maple syrup: For that unmistakable maple taste—use real syrup for the best results.
Large egg: Helps bind everything together for the perfect cookie texture.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out all the flavors and adds a layer of sweetness.
Powdered sugar: Makes the icing silky smooth and easy to spread.
Milk: Adjusts the icing’s consistency so it’s just right for drizzling or spreading.
Optional cinnamon for icing: A little sprinkle for extra flavor, if you love even more warmth.
Flaky sea salt or chopped pecans (for garnish): Adds a beautiful touch and a delightful contrast in texture.

How to Make Maple cookies with maple icing

Step 1: Cream Together Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Pour in the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until everything is well combined. This creamy base is what gives your maple cookies with maple icing their signature soft centers and layered flavor.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Even distribution of these dry ingredients ensures each cookie bakes evenly and no flavor gets lost.

Step 3: Combine and Chill Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender cookies. Once the dough comes together, wrap it or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—this step helps prevent spreading and intensifies the flavors.

Step 4: Portion and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment. Scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, just until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Remove and let cool completely before icing.

Step 5: Make the Brown Butter Icing

While your cookies cool, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, swirling occasionally until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Take off the heat and let cool slightly. Whisk in powdered sugar, maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of milk, and cinnamon (if using) until smooth. If the icing is too thick, add a little more milk as needed.

Step 6: Frost and Finish

Spread or drizzle the icing over each cooled cookie. While the icing is still tacky, sprinkle with flaky sea salt or chopped pecans for that perfect finish every maple cookies with maple icing deserves.

How to Serve Maple cookies with maple icing

Garnishes

Give each cookie a final flourish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to balance out the sweetness, or a dusting of chopped pecans for extra crunch and pure bakery-style presentation. These little touches make maple cookies with maple icing look and taste irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair your maple cookies with maple icing alongside a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a cool glass of milk. For a fall-inspired treat, serve with apple slices and sharp cheddar on the side—a surprisingly perfect match!

Creative Ways to Present

Stack a few cookies inside a clear cellophane bag tied with a rustic ribbon for gifts, or arrange them on a platter drizzled with extra icing and a scatter of pecan pieces. Maple cookies with maple icing also shine when nestled among other fall treats in a dessert spread or afternoon tea tray.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To ensure your maple cookies with maple icing stay soft, add a piece of fresh bread to the container; it’ll keep them from drying out.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze these beauties! Place baked, unfrosted cookies in a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp, then add the icing and garnish for maximum freshness and flavor.

Reheating

If you like your maple cookies with maple icing just a little warm, pop one or two in the microwave for 8–10 seconds. This wakes up the spices and softens the icing for an indulgent treat straight from your own oven.

FAQs

Can I use maple-flavored syrup instead of pure maple syrup?

You’ll get the best, most authentic flavor using 100% pure maple syrup, but maple-flavored pancake syrup will work in a pinch—just know the taste will be milder and a little sweeter.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes after mixing. This solidifies the butter and helps your maple cookies with maple icing hold their shape in the oven.

Is it okay to skip the brown butter step in the icing?

You can simply melt the butter, but browning it adds a rich, nutty dimension that really sets this icing apart. It’s worth the extra minute!

Can I make these cookies gluten free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The results remain delightfully chewy, though the flavor may be a bit different.

What’s the best way to get that pretty drizzle effect with the icing?

Use a spoon or a small zip-top bag with the tip snipped to pipe the icing. Work quickly, as the brown butter icing sets up fast, and feel free to make swirls or zigzags for bakery-style flair.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about sharing homemade maple cookies with maple icing with the people you love. These cookies are a celebration of cozy flavor, simple joy, and baking from the heart. Give this recipe a try, and watch them disappear—warm smiles and second servings guaranteed!