Name: Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 24
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2⅓ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp Baking Soda; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; ½ cup sour cream; ¾ tsp maple extract; ½ tsp vanilla extract; For Maple Cinnamon Frosting:; ½ cup butter; 2½ cups powdered sugar; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; 3 tbsp half and half; 1¼ tsp maple extract

These delightful maple cinnamon sugar cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. With a hint of maple and a touch of cinnamon, they offer a warm, comforting flavor that pairs wonderfully with the soft, chewy texture. Whether you're baking for a festive gathering or simply indulging in a sweet moment at home, these cookies are sure to satisfy.

Photos of Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe

While most of the ingredients are common pantry staples, you might need to pick up maple extract and sour cream. Maple extract is essential for achieving that distinct maple flavor, and sour cream helps to keep the cookies moist and tender. Check the baking aisle or specialty sections in your supermarket for these items.

Ingredients for Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

all-purpose flour: A versatile flour used as the base for the cookies

cornstarch: Helps to give the cookies a tender texture

ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor to the cookies and frosting

baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise

baking soda: Another leavening agent that contributes to the texture

salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies

unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cookies

granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies

egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure

sour cream: Keeps the cookies moist and tender

maple extract: Provides a distinct maple flavor

vanilla extract: Enhances the other flavors

powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting

half and half: Adds creaminess to the frosting

One reader, Arielle Kramer says:

These maple cinnamon sugar cookies are absolutely delightful! The perfect blend of maple and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting flavor. The cookies are soft, and the frosting adds a sweet, creamy touch. Perfect for any occasion!

Arielle Kramer

Techniques Required for Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe

How to cream butter and sugar: Creaming involves beating the butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, which helps the cookies rise and gives them a tender texture.

How to roll out dough: Rolling out dough involves flattening the dough with a rolling pin to an even thickness. This ensures that the cookies bake evenly.

How to cut dough into rounds: Cutting dough into rounds involves using a round cookie cutter to shape the dough. This ensures uniformity in size and shape for even baking.

How to make frosting: Making frosting involves beating butter with powdered sugar and other ingredients until smooth and fluffy. This creates a creamy topping for the cookies.

How to frost cookies: Frosting cookies involves spreading or piping the frosting onto the cooled cookies. This adds flavor and decoration to the cookies.

How To Make Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Enjoy soft and spiced bites of these sugar cookies, made sweeter with maple syrup, for decadent sweet treats! Whip up a batch in less than an hour.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2⅓cupsall-purpose flour
2tbspcornstarch
1tspground cinnamon
½tspbaking powder
½tspbaking soda
½tspsalt
½cupunsalted butter,softened
1cupgranulated sugar
1large egg
½cupsour cream
¾tspmaple extract
½tspvanilla extract

For Maple Cinnamon Frosting:

½cupbutter,softened
2½cupspowdered sugar
½tspground cinnamon
3tbsphalf and half
1¼tspmaple extract

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for 20 seconds. Set aside.
Cream together the butter and sugar until blended. Mix in the egg, then blend in the sour cream, maple extract, and vanilla extract.
With the mixer set on low speed, slowly add in flour mixture and mix until combined.
Divide the dough into 2 equal portions. Place each portion on a sheet of plastic wrap and shape each into a round disk about 6-inches.
Wrap with plastic wrap and chill for 2 hours, or until firm enough to roll.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F during the last 10 minutes of chilling.
Dust a work surface with a fair amount of flour. Remove one portion of dough from the refrigerator, remove from plastic wrap, and transfer to the floured surface.
Dust top with flour, then using a rolling pin, roll out just slightly thicker than ¼ -inch thickness. Cut into 2½-inch rounds.
Transfer to an 18×13-inch baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Dust excess flour from scraps, press them together and re-roll dough and cut into rounds.
Bake in the oven for 9 to 10 minutes until cookies are nearly set.
Let cool for several minutes on a baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to cool.
Repeat the process with remaining dough in refrigerator.

Maple Cinnamon Frosting:

Add the butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon and half and half to a medium mixing bowl. Using an electric hand mixer beat until well blended.
Add in maple extract and tint with brown gel food coloring, then whip until light and fluffy.
Once the cookies are cool, frost with the maple cinnamon frosting.
Serve, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Store the cookies in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Calories: 210.83kcal
Fat: 9.15g
Saturated Fat: 5.63g
Trans Fat: 0.31g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.38g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.43g
Carbohydrates: 31.09g
Fiber: 0.42g
Sugar: 20.82g
Protein: 1.76g
Cholesterol: 31.27mg
Sodium: 89.91mg
Calcium: 21.45mg
Potassium: 28.62mg
Iron: 0.65mg
Vitamin A: 78.30µg
Vitamin C: 0.07mg

Essential Technique Tips for Perfect Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

When rolling out the dough, make sure to dust both the work surface and the rolling pin with flour to prevent sticking. If the dough becomes too soft while working, place it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up. This will make it easier to cut clean, even cookie shapes.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix dry ingredients the night before to save time on baking day.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can speed up the process of creaming butter and sugar, and mixing dough.

Chill dough quickly: Flatten dough disks to ½-inch thickness before chilling to reduce chilling time.

Pre-cut parchment paper: Prepare parchment paper sheets for baking trays in advance to streamline the baking process.

Batch frosting: Make the maple cinnamon frosting while the cookies are baking to save time.

Clean as you go: Clean utensils and bowls immediately after use to keep your workspace organized and efficient.

Substitute Ingredients For Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the cookies denser.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder provides a similar thickening effect and is a good alternative for those avoiding corn.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice contains cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a more complex flavor.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use 1/4 teaspoon baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar to replace 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 times the amount of baking powder to replace baking soda, though it may slightly alter the texture.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same amount and may add a slightly different mineral flavor.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can add a subtle coconut flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.
large egg - Substitute with flax egg: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water to replace one egg, making the recipe vegan.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture with added protein.
maple extract - Substitute with vanilla extract and maple syrup: Use a combination of vanilla extract and a small amount of maple syrup to mimic the flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in the same amount and provides a similar texture.
powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut powdered sugar: Coconut powdered sugar is a less processed alternative with a slight coconut flavor.
half and half - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream provides a richer texture and can be diluted with a bit of milk if needed.
maple extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Use a small amount of maple syrup to add the desired flavor, though it may slightly alter the consistency.

Presenting Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Use elegant plating: Arrange the maple cinnamon sugar cookies on a pristine white plate, spacing them evenly to create a visually appealing layout.
Add a touch of sophistication: Pipe the maple cinnamon frosting onto each cookie in a delicate swirl pattern, ensuring uniformity and precision.
Garnish with finesse: Lightly dust the frosted cookies with a hint of ground cinnamon for an added layer of flavor and visual appeal.
Incorporate seasonal elements: Place a few small, edible maple leaves or a sprinkle of finely chopped candied pecans around the cookies to evoke the essence of autumn.
Serve with a complementary beverage: Pair the cookies with a small glass of maple-infused milk or a shot of espresso to enhance the overall tasting experience.
Highlight the ingredients: Include a small card on the plate that lists the key ingredients, such as maple extract and cinnamon, to inform and entice the diners.
Create a multi-sensory experience: Light a maple-scented candle nearby to fill the air with the warm, inviting aroma of the cookies, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine and mix the ingredients together.
Whisk: Used to whisk together the dry ingredients like flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Electric mixer: Essential for creaming the butter and sugar, and for blending in the egg, sour cream, maple extract, and vanilla extract.
Plastic wrap: Used to wrap the dough portions and chill them in the refrigerator.
Rolling pin: Used to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Flour sifter: Helps to dust the work surface and the dough with flour to prevent sticking.
Cookie cutter: Used to cut the dough into 2½-inch rounds.
Baking sheet: An 18x13-inch sheet used to bake the cookies.
Parchment paper: Lining the baking sheet to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Wire rack: Used to cool the cookies after baking.
Medium mixing bowl: Used to prepare the maple cinnamon frosting.
Hand mixer: Used to beat the frosting ingredients until well blended and fluffy.
Spatula: Used to spread the frosting on the cooled cookies.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the dry and wet ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and extracts.

Storing and Freezing Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Once the maple cinnamon sugar cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To keep the cookies soft and fresh, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies. The bread will absorb any excess moisture and prevent the cookies from becoming stale.
If you want to store the cookies for a longer period, you can freeze them:
- Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
If you have leftover maple cinnamon frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Before using, let it come to room temperature and re-whip it with a mixer to restore its fluffy texture.

Interesting Facts About Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

A unique aspect of this maple cinnamon sugar cookies recipe is the use of sour cream in the dough. This ingredient helps to create a tender and moist texture, making the cookies soft and delicious.

Is Making Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

When considering the cost-effectiveness of this maple cinnamon sugar cookies recipe, it scores a solid 8 out of 10. The ingredients like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter are common pantry staples, making it budget-friendly. Specialty items like maple extract and sour cream add a unique flavor without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$12 USD, making it an affordable yet delightful dessert option.

Are Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

The maple cinnamon sugar cookies recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients that raise concerns are:

All-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks fiber and nutrients
Granulated sugar and powdered sugar, both of which are added sugars that can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess
Butter, a source of saturated fat that can increase the risk of heart disease when consumed in large amounts
Sour cream and half-and-half, which are high in fat and calories

However, the recipe does include some redeeming qualities, such as the use of cinnamon, which has anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
Reduce the amount of granulated sugar and powdered sugar, or replace them with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar
Use a mix of butter and coconut oil instead of solely butter to reduce the saturated fat content
Opt for low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt in place of regular sour cream
Replace the half-and-half with almond milk or low-fat milk in the frosting

Additionally, you could experiment with adding more nutritious ingredients to the recipe, such as:

Finely grated carrots or zucchini for added moisture and nutrients
Chopped nuts or seeds for healthy fats and protein
Dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for natural sweetness and fiber

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the maple cinnamon sugar cookies while still maintaining their delightful flavor and texture.

Editor's Opinion on This Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe

This maple cinnamon sugar cookie recipe is a delightful blend of warm spices and rich maple flavor, perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday treats. The use of cornstarch ensures a tender crumb, while the sour cream adds a subtle tang and moist texture. The maple cinnamon frosting elevates the cookies with a creamy, aromatic finish. Chilling the dough is essential for easy handling and achieving the perfect shape. Overall, this recipe is well-balanced and offers a sophisticated twist on a classic sugar cookie, making it a must-try for any baking enthusiast.

Enhance Your Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Pair these delightful maple cinnamon sugar cookies with a warm bowl of Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. The creamy, slightly sweet flavor of the squash complements the cinnamon and maple notes in the cookies, creating a cozy, autumnal experience.

Cranberry Walnut Salad: Serve alongside a refreshing Cranberry Walnut Salad. The tartness of the cranberries and the crunch of the walnuts provide a delightful contrast to the sweet, spiced cookies. The greens add a fresh, crisp element to balance the richness of the frosting.

Spiced Apple Cider: Complement the cookies with a steaming mug of Spiced Apple Cider. The warm apple flavors and aromatic spices in the cider enhance the maple and cinnamon in the cookies, making for a comforting, seasonal treat.

Caramelized Pear and Brie Crostini: For a sophisticated touch, try Caramelized Pear and Brie Crostini. The creamy brie and sweet, caramelized pears on a crunchy crostini provide a luxurious contrast to the soft, frosted cookies. The combination of textures and flavors will elevate your dessert experience.

Pumpkin Spice Latte: Indulge in a Pumpkin Spice Latte to go with your cookies. The rich, spiced pumpkin flavor in the latte pairs perfectly with the maple and cinnamon in the cookies, creating a harmonious blend of autumnal flavors.

Delicious Alternatives to Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

Brown Butter Snickerdoodles: Imagine the classic snickerdoodle elevated with the nutty, rich flavor of brown butter. These cookies are rolled in a cinnamon-sugar mixture and baked to perfection, offering a delightful twist on a beloved favorite.

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies: Perfect for the fall season, these cookies combine the warm flavors of pumpkin spice with a soft, chewy sugar cookie base. Top them with a creamy cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of indulgence.

Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies: Bright and zesty, these lemon glazed sugar cookies are a refreshing treat. The lemon glaze adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the soft, buttery cookie.

Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookies: A delightful fusion of chocolate chip cookies and sugar cookies, these treats are loaded with chocolate chips and have a soft, chewy texture that makes them irresistible.

Chai Spiced Sugar Cookies: Infused with the warm, aromatic spices of chai, these cookies are perfect for cozying up with a cup of tea. The blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger creates a unique and flavorful twist on the traditional sugar cookie.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a delectable mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. The mushrooms become tender while the filling turns golden and bubbly. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear quickly!

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with a classic bruschetta. Picture crusty baguette slices toasted to a golden brown, then topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crunchy bread and the fresh, tangy topping creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. This appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect starter for any occasion.

Main Courses:

Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb: Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb is a show-stopping dish that combines the rich flavors of fresh herbs and succulent lamb. The rack of lamb is coated in a mixture of parsley, rosemary, and thyme, creating a fragrant and flavorful crust. The lamb is then roasted to perfection, resulting in a tender and juicy interior. Serve this elegant dish with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with a gourmet meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a versatile and colorful main course that can be customized to suit any palate. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and vegetables. The filling is seasoned with garlic, onions, and spices, creating a delicious and hearty meal. The peppers are then baked until tender, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Top with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor. Serve with a side of salad or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Why trust this Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of maple extract and cinnamon to create irresistible sugar cookies. The addition of sour cream ensures a moist and tender texture, while the maple cinnamon frosting adds a delightful finishing touch. With clear instructions and carefully selected ingredients, this recipe is designed for success. Trust in the balance of butter, sugar, and spices to deliver a cookie that will impress family and friends.

Share your thoughts on the Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how your cookies turned out!

FAQ:

How long do I need to chill the dough?

You need to chill the dough for about 2 hours, or until it's firm enough to roll out easily.

Can I use regular milk instead of half and half for the frosting?

Yes, you can use regular milk, but the frosting might be a bit thinner. You might need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to get the right consistency.

Can I substitute maple extract with real maple syrup?

Using real maple syrup will change the texture and consistency of both the dough and the frosting. Maple extract gives a more concentrated flavor without altering the texture.

How do I store these cookies?

You can store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough a day or two in advance and keep it wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before rolling it out if it gets too hard.