Maple Cookies Recipe

Name: Maple Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 1 cup butter, softened; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1 cup real maple syrup; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 0.33333334326744 cup granulated sugar for decoration

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup real maple syrup
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
cup white sugar

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Grease two cookie sheets and set them aside.

Step 2: In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, and salt) to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 6: Shape the dough into 1-inch balls using your hands or a spoon. Place the dough balls on the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Gently flatten each dough ball with the bottom of a glass to create a cookie shape. Sprinkle a small amount of the remaining white sugar on top of each cookie.

Step 8: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Step 9: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 10: Repeat the process with any remaining dough, baking more cookies until all are finished.

Cook's Note

For an extra treat, you can add butterscotch chips to the dough for a sweet variation.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving	Amount
Calories	91
Total Fat	3g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	11mg
Sodium	86mg
Total Carbohydrate	15g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	8g
Protein	1g
Calcium	9mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	27mg

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Maple cookies, with their soft, chewy texture and subtle sweetness, are a beloved treat that combine the warmth of home baking with the rich flavor of maple syrup. These cookies are particularly popular in regions where maple syrup is produced, such as Canada and parts of the northeastern United States. Lets dive into the fascinating history, regional distinctions, and interesting facts surrounding this sweet indulgence.

History of Maple Cookies

The origins of maple cookies trace back to the use of maple syrup by Indigenous peoples of North America, who were the first to discover the sweetness of sap from maple trees. In the 17th century, French settlers in Canada learned the technique of sap tapping and syrup production from the native tribes. Maple syrup became an integral part of Canadian and northeastern American cuisine. The introduction of maple syrup into baked goods like cookies occurred naturally as the sweet syrup became a staple in households across the region. Over time, maple cookies evolved as a delightful treat, popularized during the colder months when syrup production was at its peak.

Regional Variations and Popularity

Maple cookies are most commonly associated with Canada, particularly in Quebec, where maple syrup production is a major industry. Quebec produces more than 70% of the worlds maple syrup, and as a result, maple-based treats are a signature of local cuisine. In the U.S., states like Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine also produce maple syrup and have their own versions of maple cookies. While the basic recipe remains similar across regions, some variations include the addition of ingredients like walnuts, chocolate chips, or even maple-flavored glazes to enhance the flavor.

How Maple Cookies Differ from Similar Sweets

Maple cookies stand out from other sugar cookies or snickerdoodles due to their unique maple syrup flavor. While many cookies are sweetened with refined sugar or vanilla, maple cookies use real maple syrup, which imparts a more complex, earthy sweetness. Additionally, maple cookies often have a slightly denser, cakey texture compared to the crispness of traditional sugar cookies. This use of maple syrup not only gives them a distinct flavor but also a moist, chewy texture that sets them apart from other cookies.

Where Maple Cookies Are Typically Served

Maple cookies are commonly served as a dessert or snack in homes, bakeries, and cafs, especially in regions known for maple syrup production. They are a popular addition to holiday cookie platters, particularly during Thanksgiving and Christmas. In Canada, they are often paired with a warm beverage, like coffee or hot chocolate, making them a perfect treat for colder months. The cookies are also a favorite accompaniment to ice cream, where they can be crumbled and sprinkled on top for added sweetness and texture.

Interesting Facts About Maple Cookies

Maple syrup is graded based on its color and flavor. Darker syrup, often used in cookies, has a more intense maple flavor compared to lighter syrups.
Maple syrup has been produced for centuries, with the earliest records of syrup production dating back to the Indigenous peoples of North America.
In Quebec, there is an annual "sugaring off" festival where locals celebrate the maple syrup harvest with various events, including maple-themed treats like cookies.
Maple cookies have gained popularity as a gluten-free option when made with alternative flours, making them accessible to a wider audience.

FAQ about Maple Cookies Recipe

Maple cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Be sure to allow the cookies to cool completely before storing to avoid excess moisture.

While maple syrup is the star ingredient of this recipe, you can substitute it with other syrups like honey or agave syrup, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. If you want a stronger maple flavor, consider using maple extract in addition to the syrup.

Yes, you can definitely add chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or chocolate chips to the dough. These additions can enhance the flavor and texture, but be mindful of adding too many ingredients as it may change the dough consistency.

If you feel the maple flavor is subtle, you can increase the amount of maple syrup or add maple extract to the dough. Some users also recommend finishing the cookies with a maple glaze to enhance the flavor.

Yes, you can make these cookies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your other ingredients, such as the baking soda and maple syrup, are also gluten-free.

To prevent excessive spreading, you can chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. Additionally, using a combination of butter and shortening (instead of all butter) can help keep the cookies from spreading too thin.

It's best to use unsalted butter to maintain control over the salt content. If you use salted butter, reduce or omit the salt in the recipe to prevent the cookies from becoming too salty.

The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. The baking time typically ranges from 8-10 minutes, but you should check the cookies starting around 8 minutes to ensure they don't overbake.

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time. After shaping the dough into balls, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage. When ready to bake, simply place them on the baking sheet and bake as usual.

If your dough is too sticky to handle, try chilling it for 30 minutes to make it easier to roll into balls. Alternatively, you can lightly dust your hands with flour to prevent the dough from sticking.

Comments

Dennis Nelson

11/17/2022 04:53:13 AM

I added a maple glaze to these cookies and they tasted even better! I used a combination of powdered sugar, brown sugar, maple syrup, and a bit of milk to create a spreadable glaze. The result was absolutely delicious!

Brenda Martinez

10/21/2024 04:59:20 AM

I adjusted the recipe by cutting it in half and only using one egg. I used a cookie scoop to place the dough on the baking sheet, sprinkled decorative sugar on top, and gently pressed them down. The cookies turned out perfectly and taste amazing!

Brenda Diaz

08/23/2024 01:40:12 PM

I agree with previous reviews that the maple taste in these snacks is subtle. However, I found that the addition of roasted sunflower seeds complemented the delicate maple flavor wonderfully. The sunflower seeds brought a stronger taste, which paired excellently with the hint of maple.