If you adore the comforting flavors of fall and crave a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, then this Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe is exactly what you need. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with rich brown sugar and pure maple syrup, giving each bite a heavenly depth of sweetness. Topped with a luscious maple glaze that adds just the right amount of drizzle and sparkle, they’re perfect for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself on a cozy afternoon. Get ready to fall in love with every maple-infused bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity here—each ingredient plays a vital role in creating those soft, moist cookies that melt in your mouth. From the creamy butter that provides tenderness to the aromatic cinnamon enhancing the sweet maple notes, these staples come together to make magic happen.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives the cookies their rich, tender texture and helps achieve that perfect chewiness.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds deep molasses flavor and keeps the cookies wonderfully moist.
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Infuses each cookie with authentic maple goodness for that signature sweetness.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and contributes to the cookie’s soft crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with warm, sweet notes.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that creates structure while keeping those cookies tender.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly, giving them the perfect lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and boosts overall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice that complements the maple and brown sugar perfectly.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the glaze, providing that smooth and sweet finish.
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup: Elevates the glaze with real maple flavor.
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for consistency): Adjusts the glaze to just the right drizzly texture.
- Optional: a sprinkle of cinnamon for garnish: A little extra touch to make your cookies look as good as they taste.
How to Make Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by warming your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats—this keeps your cookies from sticking and ensures an even bake. Proper prep here means easier cleanup and flawless baking results.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key because aerating the butter and sugar creates a tender crumb texture in your cookies. Then, stir in the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a separate bowl. Adding the dry ingredients gradually to the wet mixture while mixing on low speed prevents overworking the dough, which could result in tough cookies. Keeping this balance will yield soft, chewy delights every time.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and space them about 2 inches apart on your prepared sheets. Then, gently press the balls down with the palm of your hand to flatten them slightly—this helps them bake evenly and develop that classic cookie shape.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them because you want the edges to turn just golden while the centers stay soft. This careful timing ensures your cookies are chewy rather than dry or crisp. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack so they finish cooling perfectly.
Step 6: Prepare and Drizzle Maple Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk in a small bowl until you achieve a smooth glaze with a pourable consistency. Drizzle this over the cooled cookies with love—you’ll want to cover them generously! If desired, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top for an inviting final touch.
Step 7: Let the Glaze Set
Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before indulging. It hardens just enough to add texture while keeping that irresistible maple flavor front and center with every bite.
How to Serve Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to bring a little extra sparkle to your presentation, dust your cookies with a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon or finely chopped toasted pecans. A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt also pairs beautifully with the sweetness, adding a sophisticated balance that guests will appreciate.
Side Dishes
These cookies beg for a warm beverage companion like a creamy latte, chai tea, or even a classic cup of black coffee. If serving at a gathering, add a platter of fresh fruit such as sliced apples or pears to complement the maple spice flavor and create a well-rounded snack experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe on a rustic wooden board or a pretty vintage plate. For parties, stack them in small towers tied with a delicate ribbon. You can also place each cookie in a mini paper cup to make them easily shareable and extra charming.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keeping them sealed preserves their soft texture and keeps that delicious maple glaze intact, so they taste just as fresh as the day you baked them.
Freezing
Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe freeze beautifully. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before glazing for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy warm cookies, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. This warms them through without melting the glaze too much, bringing back that fresh-baked feel that makes them so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I substitute butter with margarine?
While you can use margarine, unsalted butter is recommended for its superior flavor and texture. Butter gives these cookies their rich taste and tender crumb, so swapping it out might alter the final result slightly.
What kind of maple syrup should I use?
Go for 100% pure maple syrup to capture authentic maple flavor in both the dough and the glaze. Avoid pancake syrups or flavored syrups as they won’t provide the same depth of flavor and can affect the texture.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by replacing all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum, you can make a gluten-free version. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly, but the maple sweetness will still shine through beautifully.
How thick should I make the glaze?
The glaze should be pourable but not too runny. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk by teaspoons; if too thin, add a touch more powdered sugar. You want it to drizzle smoothly and set lightly on the cookies.
Can I store these cookies without glazing them?
Absolutely! You can bake and store the cookies plain, then add the glaze right before serving. This is a great option if you want to prepare ahead and keep cookies fresh, adding the glaze for a show-stopping finish at the last minute.
Final Thoughts
This Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe is a delightful way to bring cozy warmth and sweet joy to your kitchen any time of year. I hope you have as much fun making and savoring these cookies as I do sharing them with friends and family. Give this recipe a try, and watch these little maple marvels become a fast favorite in your dessert rotation!
Print
Maple Brown Sugar Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Maple Brown Sugar Cookies offer a delightful blend of rich brown sugar and pure maple syrup flavors, baked to soft and chewy perfection. Topped with a sweet maple glaze and a hint of cinnamon, these cookies make a cozy treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Maple Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (for consistency)
- Optional: a sprinkle of cinnamon for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand to create a flat surface.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just golden and the centers set. Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft and chewy texture. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Maple Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth and pourable. Adjust the milk quantity to achieve the desired glaze consistency.
- Glaze and Garnish: Drizzle the maple glaze over the cooled cookies. Optionally, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for extra flavor and aroma.
- Serve: Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these comforting maple brown sugar cookies alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
Notes
- Do not overbake the cookies to ensure a chewy texture.
- For a stronger maple flavor, use pure maple syrup rather than imitation syrup.
- Let the glaze set completely before storing cookies in an airtight container.
- You can substitute milk with almond milk or other dairy alternatives in the glaze for a dairy-free version.
