Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that perfectly captures the flavors of fall, look no further than this Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe. These cookies are a luscious blend of soft, tender dough packed with warm cinnamon and tart apple chunks, all topped with a sweet, silky maple glaze that creates the perfect finishing touch. They’re simple to make but feel incredibly special, making them a fantastic dessert for family gatherings, afternoon tea, or just a delightful snack that brings comfort with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe plays an essential role, contributing flavor, texture, and that signature cozy vibe. From the creamy butter to the tart apples and the sweet maple glaze, these components come together in perfect harmony to create a cookie you’ll rave about.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds necessary sweetness and helps with the cookie’s structure.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings a delightful hint of molasses flavor and moistness.
• 2 eggs: Bind ingredients together and give the cookies their soft chewiness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the sweet flavors with a fragrant warmth.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The main structural base, creating that classic cookie crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps cookies rise just enough for a soft texture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The spice hero, adding depth and that unmistakable fall flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
• 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples: Adds juicy bursts of natural tartness and a fresh, fruity texture.
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional): For a satisfying crunch and nutty dimension.
• Maple glaze ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, 1-2 tablespoons milk, combine for a sweet, shiny finish that makes these cookies irresistible.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple prep step ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the sheets without sticking, giving you perfectly shaped treats every time.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy and pale, about 2 minutes. This creaming process traps air, which helps your cookies rise beautifully and achieve that soft, tender crumb.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition so everything is fully combined. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with a subtle, aromatic sweetness that lifts the whole flavor profile.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures the baking soda and spices are evenly distributed, so each cookie has a consistent texture and warm spice flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing here to keep your cookies tender and soft rather than dense and tough.

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Walnuts

Gently fold in the juicy diced apples and, if you’re using them, the crunchy walnuts. The apples add bursts of fresh flavor and moisture while the walnuts bring an enjoyable textural contrast.

Step 7: Portion and Bake

Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow spreading. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown. Let them cool briefly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare the Maple Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Adjust the milk amount to reach a drizzle-friendly consistency. This glaze adds that signature glossy layer and a sweet maple punch that turns these cookies into a truly memorable treat.

Step 9: Drizzle the Glaze

Once your cookies have cooled, use a spoon to drizzle the maple glaze over the tops. This final touch adds sweetness and a beautiful presentation that will wow anyone lucky enough to take a bite.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon or finely chopped walnuts over the top of the glaze for an inviting look and extra flavor layers. A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top can also enhance the maple glaze’s sweetness and bring balance.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of spiced apple cider or a creamy chai latte to enhance the cozy, warming spices. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side makes for a luscious dessert experience that feels extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cookies stacked on a rustic wooden board for a charming fall dessert spread, or arrange them in gift boxes wrapped with twine as thoughtful homemade gifts. You can even sandwich a bit of cream cheese frosting between two cookies for a delightful twist on presentation and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe cookies taste great at room temperature and will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If the glaze softens too much, a quick pop into the fridge will firm it back up nicely.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked cookies without glaze for up to 3 months. Just layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. When ready, thaw them at room temperature and then add the glaze fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm the cookies gently in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked aroma and soften them up before drizzling with the maple glaze. Avoid microwaving as it can make the apples mushy and the cookie too soft.

FAQs

Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work wonderfully here and offer a different but equally delicious crunch and flavor tweak.

What type of apples is best for this recipe?

Tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal because they hold up well to baking and add a nice tangy contrast to the sweet cookie dough and glaze.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it has xanthan gum or another binder to keep the cookies from falling apart.

Is it okay to skip the maple glaze?

Of course! The cookies are tasty on their own, but the maple glaze adds that extra layer of sweetness and shine that really elevates the whole experience.

How can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

To thicken, add more powdered sugar a little at a time. To thin it out, add milk drop by drop until you reach your desired consistency for drizzling.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe is one of those treats that brings warmth and joy to any kitchen. It’s straightforward enough to whip up on a weekday but special enough for celebrations or gifting. I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do!

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