Iced Maple Cutout Sugar Cookies
Introduction
As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting scent of autumn baking wafting through the kitchen. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe for Iced Maple Cutout Sugar Cookies that perfectly captures the essence of the season. With their soft texture and rich maple flavor, these cookies are not just a treat – they’re a celebration of fall! If you’d like to receive this heartfelt recipe by email, be sure to subscribe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Iced Maple Cutout Sugar Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors that will have everyone raving. The warm, inviting taste of maple is a hug in cookie form! Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for families—whether you’re making memories with the kids or impressing friends at a gathering. They taste so good you might find yourself sneaking a few before they even make it to the icing stage!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon maple extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– For the icing:
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2-3 tablespoons milk
– 1 teaspoon maple extract
– Food coloring (optional)
Necessary Tools
– Large mixing bowl
– Hand mixer or stand mixer
– Rolling pin
– Cookie cutters
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Wire rack
– Mixing bowl for icing
– Spoon or piping bag for decorating
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to customize your cookies! Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. You can also enhance the flavor profile by adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits like cranberries or cherries. Experimenting adds a personal touch to your baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with that delightful buttery aroma!
2. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and maple extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures your cookies will rise perfectly!
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mix until a soft dough forms; it’s okay if it’s a little sticky—this will help with that irresistible softness in the cookies.
5. Divide the dough into two portions, then roll each out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thick. Get creative with your favorite cookie shapes!
6. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, just until the edges turn a lovely golden color. Your kitchen will feel like a cozy autumn retreat!
8. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack—patience is key!
9. For the icing, mix powdered sugar, milk, and maple extract in a bowl until smooth. If you want to add some color, now’s the time to get creative with food coloring!
10. Finally, once your cookies have cooled, use a spoon or piping bag to frost them. Allow the icing to set before diving in!
Serving Suggestions
These iced cookies are perfect on their own, but why not pair them with a warm cup of apple cider or a cozy mug of hot chocolate? They also make fantastic gifts during the holiday season!
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
– Chill the dough for a bit if it feels too sticky—this will make it easier to work with.
– Experiment with different icing designs—it’s a fun way to get the whole family involved!
Storing and Reheating
Store your iced cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw before serving!
FAQ Section
Q: Can I make the dough in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking.
Q: Can I use a different extract instead of maple?
A: Yes, feel free to substitute with almond or peppermint extract for a unique twist!
Conclusion
These Iced Maple Cutout Sugar Cookies are the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall in your kitchen. Simple, delicious, and family-friendly, this recipe is sure to make lasting memories. I’d love to see your creations, so please leave a review, share your photos, or tag me on Instagram or Pinterest!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per cookie:
Calories: 120
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 1g
Happy baking! Enjoy every sweet, crumbly bite of these delightful treats!
