Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

If you’re searching for a cookie that combines the cozy warmth of cinnamon with the rich, natural sweetness of maple syrup, these Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies are exactly what you need. They’re soft yet slightly crisp around the edges, bursting with flavor that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a casual afternoon treat, or just because, these cookies deliver a comforting blend of spice and sweetness that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Why It’s My Go-To

I love these Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies because they strike the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. The use of maple syrup adds a depth that elevates classic sugar cookies without complicating the process. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—perfect for gifting, sharing at a party, or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. The cinnamon sugar coating creates a delightful, slightly crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, tender cookie inside. These cookies are a crowd-pleaser every time!

Gather These Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base for our cookies, providing structure and that perfect crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread evenly.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the dough with warm spice.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Key for richness and tender texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps with a slight crispness.
• 1/2 cup maple syrup: Adds a natural sweetness and that signature maple flavor.
• 1 egg: Binds the dough together, contributing to softness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the overall flavor profile.
• 1/4 cup additional granulated sugar for coating: For that sparkling, crunchy coating.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon for coating: Combines with sugar to create a classic cinnamon sugar crust.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Mixing bowls: For combining your dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Electric mixer or stand mixer: To cream the butter and sugar until fluffy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key for consistent cookies.
• Baking sheets: A flat surface for perfectly baked cookies.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Prevents sticking and promotes even baking.
• Cooling racks: Allows cookies to cool properly without sogginess.
• Spoon or cookie scoop: For uniform cookie sizes.

Cook Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Like This

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to ensure your cookies don’t stick and bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter with one cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3 to 4 minutes. This process is essential for that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 4: Add Maple Syrup, Egg, and Vanilla

Beat in the maple syrup, followed by the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully incorporated, scraping down the sides to ensure uniformity.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough that holds together but isn’t tough.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, mix the additional 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with the tablespoon of ground cinnamon. This will be your coating for the cookie dough balls.

Step 7: Shape and Coat

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form dough balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Roll each ball thoroughly in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Step 8: Bake

Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops have cracked slightly.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set perfectly while maintaining softness inside.

International Equivalents

• All-purpose flour: Plain flour (UK, Australia), Maida (India)
• Baking soda: Bicarbonate of soda (UK, Australia)
• Granulated sugar: Caster sugar can be used as a finer alternative.
• Unsalted butter: Use sweet cream butter without added salt.
• Maple syrup: Can be substituted with golden syrup or honey, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Cookies spreading too much: Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help it hold shape better.
• Cookies too flat: Avoid overmixing the dough, and ensure your baking soda is fresh.
• Dry or crumbly cookies: Check butter softness; it should be softened but not melted. Also, don’t overbake.
• Cinnamon sugar coating not sticking: Make sure your dough balls are slightly tacky before rolling in the coating.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

These cookies are perfect for making ahead. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their freshness, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in a low oven. You can also prepare the dough in advance, rolling it into balls and refrigerating or freezing before coating and baking. This makes last-minute baking a breeze!

Quick Q&A

Can I substitute the maple syrup with something else?

Yes! While maple syrup gives these cookies their unique flavor, you can substitute it with honey or golden syrup. Keep in mind that the taste will be slightly different, but the texture will remain soft and tender.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make gluten-free Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

You can, but reduce the added salt to about 1/4 teaspoon or omit it altogether to prevent the cookies from becoming too salty.

How do I make the cookies extra soft?

For softer cookies, bake them for the lower end of the time range and consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the dry ingredients for a more tender crumb.

Similar Recipes

• Glazed Lemon Butter Cookies – A citrusy take on buttery sugar cookies that’s bright and refreshing.
• Pumpkin Spice White Chocolate Blondies With Brown Butter Maple Frosting – For those who love rich fall flavors paired with maple in a decadent dessert.

See You at the Table

Baking these Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies fills your kitchen with the sweet scent of cinnamon and maple—a scent that instantly makes everything feel cozy and inviting. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring a quiet moment with a warm drink, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face. From the crackly cinnamon sugar crust to the soft, flavorful inside, they’re a simple yet special treat that’s easy to whip up any day of the year. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready for some cookie magic—your new favorite recipe is just a batch away!

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