Maple Glazed Cookies

Introduction

There’s something undeniably cozy about baking during the fall months. The aroma of spices and sweetness wafts through the kitchen, inviting family members to gather around and indulge in something homemade. Recently, I tried making Maple Glazed Cookies, and let me tell you—they were an instant hit! With their soft texture and delightful maple flavor, these cookies quickly became a family favorite. Whether enjoyed with a warm cup of cider or shared at a holiday gathering, these cookies are sure to please everyone.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Maple Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for thinning)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Egg, Vanilla, and Maple Syrup: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until smooth and well combined.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Form the Cookies: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball slightly with your hand.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Make the Maple Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk (starting with 1 tablespoon and adding more as needed for the desired consistency). If using, add the vanilla extract. The glaze should be thick but pourable.
9. Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the maple glaze over the top of each cookie. Let the glaze set for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 cookies
• Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

How to Serve

• Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.
• Serve with:
• Hot apple cider
• Coffee or tea
• Vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat
• A sprinkle of crushed nuts or additional maple syrup for extra flair

Additional Tips

1. Use Real Maple Syrup: For the best flavor, always opt for pure maple syrup rather than imitation syrup.
2. Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too sticky, chilling it for about 30 minutes can make it easier to handle.
3. Experiment with Spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough can enhance the fall flavors.
4. Don’t Overbake: For soft cookies, make sure to take them out when the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
5. Let the Glaze Set: Allow the glaze to set completely before stacking the cookies to prevent sticking.

Recipe Variations

• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the cookie dough for added crunch.
• Chocolate Chip Maple Cookies: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
• Cranberry Maple Cookies: Add dried cranberries for a tart contrast to the sweetness of the maple.
• Pumpkin Maple Cookies: Substitute some of the butter with pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with cheese boards featuring sharp cheeses to balance the sweetness.
• Serve as part of a dessert platter alongside mini pies or tarts.
• Offer at holiday gatherings or fall festivals for a seasonal treat.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: The unbaked cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Scoop the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
• Storing Baked Cookies: Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

• Yes, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly.

1. How do I know when the cookies are done?

• The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers may look slightly underbaked.

1. What can I substitute for eggs?

• Use a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce (1/4 cup) as a substitute.

1. Can I add chocolate chips?

• Absolutely! Add about 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for extra sweetness.

1. Is it necessary to sift the powdered sugar for the glaze?

• Yes, sifting helps to avoid lumps and ensures a smooth glaze.

1. How can I make the glaze thicker?

• Add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency.

1. Can I use a different type of syrup?

• You can try using agave syrup or honey, but the flavor will change.

1. How do I store leftover glaze?

• Store any leftover glaze in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. Whisk before using.

1. What if I can’t find maple syrup?

• You can try using a combination of brown sugar and vanilla extract for a similar flavor.

1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
   • Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

Maple Glazed Cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they encapsulate the essence of fall with their warm flavors and inviting aroma. Perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying with a cozy beverage, these cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table. Whether you’re celebrating the season or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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