Name: Glazed Maple Leaf Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/3 cup pure maple syrup; 1 egg yolk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 2–3 tbsp maple syrup (for glaze); 1–2 tbsp milk or cream (to thin glaze); Pinch of salt (for glaze); Optional: food coloring (for decorative glaze effects)

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Glazed maple leaf cookies are buttery, tender, and full of cozy maple flavor—topped with a sweet glaze that makes them shine in both taste and presentation. These cookies are shaped like autumn leaves and finished with a smooth maple glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch. I love baking these during fall, but honestly, I could enjoy them any time of year with a warm drink.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both delicious and visually charming. The cookies have a soft, shortbread-like texture with a rich maple taste, and the glaze adds a satisfying sweetness and glossy finish. They’re easy to make and even easier to decorate, making them a fun baking project for the season or a beautiful addition to any dessert tray. Glazed Maple Leaf Cookies

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cookies:

Unsalted butter (softened)
Brown sugar
Pure maple syrup
Egg yolk
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Salt

For the glaze:

Powdered sugar
Maple syrup
Milk or cream (to thin)
A pinch of salt
Optional: food coloring (for decorative leaf effects)

Directions

I cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
I mix in the maple syrup, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
I add the flour and salt, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
I flatten the dough into a disc, wrap it, and chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
Once chilled, I roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
I use a maple leaf-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
I bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. I let them cool completely on a wire rack.

To make the glaze:

I whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk until smooth and pourable.
Once the cookies are fully cooled, I dip or drizzle them with glaze, letting the excess drip off.
I let the glaze set for about 30 minutes before serving or storing.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies, depending on the size of the cutter. It takes around 20 minutes to prep, 1 hour to chill, and 10–12 minutes to bake, so I usually plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours total.

Variations

Sometimes I add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced version. When I want to get fancy, I color the glaze with warm fall tones and use a toothpick to swirl in “veins” to make the leaves look more realistic. I’ve also sandwiched two cookies with maple cream for a richer treat.

Storage/reheating

I store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If glazed, I let them dry fully before stacking. They can also be frozen (un-glazed or glazed) for up to 2 months—just layer with parchment to prevent sticking. No reheating needed, just thaw and enjoy. Glazed Maple Leaf Cookies

FAQs

Can I use maple extract instead of syrup?

Yes, but I prefer using real maple syrup for the best flavor. If using extract, reduce the amount slightly and adjust the sugar in the dough.

Do I have to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling helps the dough firm up so it’s easier to roll and cut, and it keeps the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

Can I glaze the cookies warm?

I wait until the cookies are completely cool before glazing so the icing doesn’t melt off or become runny.

What kind of maple syrup works best?

I use pure maple syrup, preferably dark or amber grade, for a deeper, more robust flavor.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I’ve kept the dough chilled for up to 2 days in advance or frozen it for later use. Just thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking.

Conclusion

Glazed maple leaf cookies are a delicious way to bring a touch of seasonal charm to the table. I love their buttery texture, rich maple flavor, and beautiful presentation. Whether I’m making them for fall gatherings, gifting, or just treating myself, these cookies always bring a little extra warmth and sweetness to the season.