Imagine the classic snickerdoodle, but with a twist that brings the cozy flavors of fall right into your kitchen. Maple snickerdoodle cookies combine the beloved cinnamon-sugar coating with the rich, warm sweetness of maple syrup. It’s like a hug in cookie form, perfect for chilly evenings or holiday gatherings.
These cookies take me back to my childhood, where the aroma of cinnamon always meant something delicious was baking. By adding maple syrup, I’ve given this traditional treat a new, irresistible depth of flavor. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your cookie jar.
Ingredients
To make these delightful maple snickerdoodle cookies, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. Let’s break them down into two key parts: the cookie dough and the cinnamon sugar coating.
For the Cookies
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect batch of maple snickerdoodle cookies, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment. Having these tools on hand will streamline the baking process and ensure your cookies come out just right. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: At least two – one for wet ingredients and one for dry ingredients.
- Whisk: For thoroughly blending the dry ingredients.
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Either will work for creaming the butter and sugar together.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking.
- Rubber Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Helpful for scraping the sides of the bowl.
- Baking Sheets: Line these with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Parchment Paper: Ensures even baking and easier cleanup.
- Cookie Scoop: For uniformly sized cookies.
- Cooling Rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly.
- Small Bowls: For the cinnamon sugar coating.
With these items prepped and ready, you’ll be all set to bake your own mouthwatering maple snickerdoodle cookies.
Directions
To create these delightful maple snickerdoodle cookies, follow these step-by-step instructions carefully for the best results.
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar
- In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon (8g) ground cinnamon. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2¾ cups (330g) all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons (8g) cream of tartar, 1 teaspoon (4g) baking soda, and ½ teaspoon (3g) salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars
- In a large mixing bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed, cream together 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter (softened), 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar, and ½ cup (100g) brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Maple Syrup
- Add two large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add ¼ cup (60ml) pure maple syrup and 2 teaspoons (10ml) vanilla extract. Continue to beat until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding in with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough tender.
- Shape the Dough
- Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form dough into 1½-inch (4cm) balls. Roll each dough ball in the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
- Bake the Cookies
- Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches (5 cm) apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and slightly golden. The centers will still look soft, which is perfect.
- Cool the Cookies
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Store and Enjoy
- Store the fully cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Enjoy your maple snickerdoodle cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee!
Tips and Tricks
These tips and tricks will ensure your maple snickerdoodle cookies turn out soft, chewy, and perfectly shaped every time.
Soft & Chewy Maple Snickerdoodles Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth, even dough.
- Do Not Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.
- Chill the Dough: After mixing, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps in preventing the cookies from spreading too much and maintains their chewy texture.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Over-measuring flour can make your cookies dry.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time. Bake the cookies until they’re just set around the edges but still soft in the center for perfectly chewy results.
- Proper Butter Consistency: Make sure the butter is softened but not melted. Butter that’s too soft can cause cookies to spread too much.
- Correct Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats. They provide a good grip for the cookies’ bottoms, helping them hold their shape.
- Dough Temperature: Ensure the dough is chilled enough. Warm dough will spread out quickly, causing flat cookies.
- Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven properly. An oven that’s too hot will melt the butter too quickly, making the cookies flatten.
- Spacing the Dough Balls: Place cookie dough balls at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to avoid them merging into one large cookie.
Serving Tips
When it’s time to indulge in your maple snickerdoodle cookies, here are some serving tips to elevate the experience and ensure your cookies are enjoyed to the fullest.
Fresh Out of the Oven
Serve the cookies while they’re still slightly warm from the oven. The warm, gooey center combined with the crispy edges creates a delightful texture that is simply irresistible. Use a cooling rack to allow the cookies to cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
Pairings
Maple snickerdoodle cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Here are some options to consider:
- Hot Beverages: Serve with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy, comforting experience.
- Cold Beverages: A glass of cold milk or a latte complements the sweet, spiced flavors of the cookies perfectly.
Presentation
For a beautiful and appealing presentation, consider the following:
- Platter Arrangement: Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden platter or a festive dish. This makes them look inviting and ready to be devoured.
- Sprinkling Cinnamon Sugar: Just before serving, sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon sugar over the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness and shimmer.
Serving Size
Typically, one or two cookies per person is a perfect serving size, especially when paired with a beverage. If you’re hosting a gathering, this allows guests to enjoy multiple treats without feeling overindulgent.
Storing Leftover Maple Snickerdoodles
Room Temperature Storage
Store leftover maple snickerdoodles at room temperature by placing them in an airtight container. To maintain their soft texture, add a slice of bread to the container. The bread helps keep the cookies moist and chewy. This method keeps the cookies fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezing for Extended Freshness
For longer storage, freeze the cookies. Arrange cooled cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not touch. Freeze for about an hour until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track. Frozen cookies stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Thawing and Reheating
To enjoy frozen maple snickerdoodles, thaw them at room temperature for about an hour. For a warm and freshly baked experience, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
By following these storage tips, you can savor your maple snickerdoodle cookies over several days, enjoying their delicious flavors anytime.
Can I Freeze These Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these maple snickerdoodle cookies to enjoy later. Here’s how you can do it to ensure they taste just as delicious as when they were freshly baked.
Freezing Maple Snickerdoodle Cookies
- Let The Cookies Cool Completely: Before freezing, make sure the cookies are completely cool to avoid condensation which can cause freezer burn.
- Arrange On A Baking Sheet: Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. This prevents them from sticking together.
- Freeze Until Solid: Pop the baking sheet into the freezer for about 1-2 hours until the cookies are solid.
- Transfer To Airtight Containers: Once the cookies are solid, transfer them to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Consider dividing the cookies into smaller portions for convenient thawing later.
- Label And Date: Don’t forget to label the containers with the date so you can keep track of their freshness. Maple snickerdoodles can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Remove Desired Amount: Take out the number of cookies you want to enjoy from the freezer.
- Thaw At Room Temperature: Allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Reheat If Desired: For that freshly baked warmth, you can reheat the cookies. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the cookies on a baking sheet. Warm them in the oven for 5-10 minutes.
By following these steps, you can enjoy your maple snickerdoodle cookies anytime, with their texture and flavor perfectly preserved.
Conclusion
Maple snickerdoodle cookies bring a delightful twist to a classic favorite. By following my tips and instructions you can create soft chewy cookies that capture the essence of fall. Don’t forget you can freeze these treats for up to three months ensuring you always have a delicious snack on hand. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just satisfying a sweet tooth these cookies are sure to impress. So go ahead and enjoy the wonderful flavors of maple snickerdoodle cookies anytime you like.