Name: Chewy Maple Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg; ½ cup maple syrup; ½ teaspoon maple extract; 1¾ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ cup coarse sugar (for rolling)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these cookies balance the richness of maple syrup with the lightness of an airy, chewy texture. They’re easy to make, don’t require any complicated steps, and the dough can be made ahead. I also enjoy the hint of maple extract, which gives the cookies an extra boost of flavor. Rolling them in coarse sugar before baking adds a little sparkle and just the right crunch around the edges.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon maple extract
1 3/4 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup coarse sugar (for rolling)

Directions

I start by creaming the softened butter and brown sugar in my stand mixer until it’s fluffy and smooth.
Then I add the egg, maple syrup, and maple extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
In a separate bowl, I sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
I slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture using the mixer on its lowest speed, just until the dough comes together.
Once mixed, I cover the dough and let it chill in the fridge for 1 hour. This step helps the cookies hold their shape and gives a better texture.
While the dough chills, I preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
After chilling, I use a small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon) to portion the dough, then gently roll each ball in coarse sugar.
I place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are still soft.
After baking, I let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 12 cookies. The prep time takes around 10 minutes, with an hour for chilling, and the bake time is 10–12 minutes. In total, I have delicious, chewy maple cookies ready in just over an hour.

Variations

I sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to bring in even more fall warmth.
Swapping maple extract with vanilla extract gives a milder, buttery flavor if I want a softer maple presence.
For a festive touch, I roll the dough in colored sanding sugar during the holidays.
Adding chopped walnuts or pecans gives a nice crunch and pairs beautifully with maple.
If I want a softer cookie, I reduce the coarse sugar or skip it altogether.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra soft, I like placing a slice of bread in the container. If I need to warm one up, I pop it in the microwave for about 6–8 seconds, and it’s as chewy and fragrant as when it first came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, I portion the dough into balls, roll them in sugar, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, I store them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, I pop them straight in the oven—no need to thaw.

What’s the purpose of maple extract?

Maple extract intensifies the maple flavor. While syrup gives sweetness and moisture, the extract adds a concentrated aroma and depth that really enhances the cookie.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. I often double the batch when I’m baking for parties or cookie swaps. I just make sure to chill the dough a bit longer if needed.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, I use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture might be slightly different, but they still turn out soft and chewy.

Do I have to chill the dough?

Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances the texture. I find they spread too much without it, so I always recommend chilling for at least 1 hour.

Conclusion

These Chewy Maple Cookies are a cozy, comforting treat that I come back to every fall. They’re soft, sweet, and full of flavor, with a lovely sugar-crusted finish that makes them feel special. Whether I make them for a gathering or just to satisfy my maple cravings, they always deliver that perfect blend of chewy and tender with just the right amount of maple goodness.