Save A festive autumn treat featuring crisp maple-flavored cookies and an assortment of colorful icings and toppings perfect for creative decorating and sharing.
This decorating kit brings fun and flavor to the whole family during fall gatherings.
Ingredients
- For the Maple Leaf Cookies: 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter softened 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (55 g) packed light brown sugar 1 large egg 1/3 cup (80 ml) pure maple syrup 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Royal Icing: 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar sifted 2 large egg whites or 4 tablespoons meringue powder + 1/4 cup water 1/2 teaspoon vanilla or maple extract Food coloring in autumn shades (red orange yellow brown green)
- Toppings for Decorating: Assorted sprinkles Edible glitter or sugar pearls Mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl whisk together flour baking powder and salt.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl beat the butter granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 3:
- Add the egg maple syrup and vanilla extract beat until combined.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture mixing until a dough forms.
- Step 5:
- Divide the dough in half flatten into disks wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 7:
- On a lightly floured surface roll out the dough to 1/4-inch (6 mm) thickness.
- Step 8:
- Cut out leaf shapes using a maple leaf cookie cutter. Transfer cookies to prepared sheets spacing them 1 inch apart.
- Step 9:
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 10:
- For the royal icing beat powdered sugar and egg whites (or meringue powder + water) until thick and glossy. Add vanilla or maple extract and mix. Divide icing into bowls and tint with food coloring.
- Step 11:
- Transfer colored icing to piping bags. Decorate cooled cookies with icing and toppings as desired. Allow icing to set before packaging or serving.
Save This kit creates memorable fun for families during the autumn season.
Notes
Pair with apple cider or cinnamon tea for a cozy treat.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls Electric mixer Measuring cups and spoons Maple leaf cookie cutter Rolling pin Baking sheets Parchment paper Wire rack Piping bags and small round tips
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten) egg milk (butter). May contain traces of nuts if using certain toppings. Double-check all toppings and food colorings for allergens.
Save Enjoy creating beautiful decorated cookies that taste as good as they look.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives the cookies their maple flavor?
The maple flavor comes from pure maple syrup added to the dough, with an optional maple extract boost for a richer taste.
- → How is the royal icing prepared and colored?
Royal icing is made by beating powdered sugar with egg whites or meringue powder until glossy and thick, then tinted using food coloring in autumn shades like red, orange, and yellow.
- → What is the best way to shape the dough?
Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thick on a floured surface, then cut using a maple leaf cookie cutter for crisp, defined shapes.
- → How long should the cookies cool before decorating?
Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack after baking to ensure the icing sets properly and the decorations hold.
- → Can these treats be made ahead of time?
Yes, the baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container once fully cooled, and decorated later when ready to serve.