For the Maple Cookies:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

• Beat in the egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).

4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Scoop and Shape the Dough:

• Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon or your hand.

6. Bake the Cookies:

• Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges. They may still feel soft in the center but will firm up as they cool.

7. Cool the Cookies:

• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Maple Icing:

8. Make the Icing:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Add 1 teaspoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency for drizzling.

9. Ice the Cookies:

• Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the maple icing over the top of each cookie. You can use a spoon, a piping bag, or just drizzle it by hand.

10. Let the Icing Set:

• Allow the icing to set for about 10 minutes before serving or storing.