# What You'll Need:
→ Maple Leaf Cookies
01 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
04 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
07 - 1 large egg
08 - 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Royal Icing
10 - 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
11 - 2 large egg whites or 4 tablespoons meringue powder plus 1/4 cup water
12 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla or maple extract
13 - Food coloring in autumn shades (red, orange, yellow, brown, green)
→ Decorating Toppings
14 - Assorted sprinkles
15 - Edible glitter or sugar pearls
16 - Mini chocolate chips (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 - Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl.
02 - Beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
03 - Add egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until combined.
04 - Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough is formed.
05 - Divide dough into two halves, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
06 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 - Roll chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
08 - Use a maple leaf cookie cutter to cut shapes and place them 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets.
09 - Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack until completely cooled.
10 - Beat powdered sugar with egg whites or meringue powder mixture until thick and glossy. Add vanilla or maple extract and mix well. Divide into bowls and tint with food coloring.
11 - Fill piping bags with colored icing. Decorate cooled cookies with icing and desired toppings. Allow icing to set before serving or packaging.
