These delightful Maple Leaf Cream Cookies are a perfect treat for any occasion. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich maple flavor, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. These cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them an ideal choice for gatherings, holidays, or just a sweet snack at home. Enjoy these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee, and savor the unique combination of creamy filling and buttery shortbread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The combination of butter and cornstarch creates a cookie that is incredibly light and tender.
• Rich maple flavor: Infused with pure maple syrup and extract, these cookies deliver an authentic taste that stands out.
• Versatile serving options: Great for parties, holiday celebrations, or as a delightful homemade gift.
• Easy preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can enjoy success.
• Make-ahead friendly: These cookies taste even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your baking adventure, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand-held mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Maple leaf cookie cutter

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand-held mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy cookie dough easily without much effort.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking while baking, ensuring your cookies come off the sheet easily.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Maple Shortbread Cookies

• 11 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup maple sugar
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon maple extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Maple Cream Filling

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon maple extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

How to Make Maple Leaf Cream Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Use a paddle attachment in a bowl with a stand or hand-held mixer. Beat the unsalted butter with the maple sugar for 60 seconds. You will still see the maple sugar crystals because it takes longer to break them down. Add in the powdered sugar, then beat until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).

Step 2: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Add in the pure maple syrup and maple extract, then mix until combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients while mixing until the dough comes together.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. If you chill it longer than an hour, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling out.

Step 5: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 thick. Sprinkle flour on top of the dough if it sticks while rolling.

Step 7: Cut Out Cookies

Using a maple leaf cookie cutter, cut out shapes from the dough. Dusting your cutter with flour will help prevent sticking. Place these on lined baking sheets. Repeat until all dough is used up.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake for about 8 – 10 minutes until they are barely golden brown around the edges. Remove from oven and let cool completely on wire racks.

Step 9: Make Maple Cream Filling

In a clean mixing bowl, beat together the remaining unsalted butter, powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, maple extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.

Step 10: Assemble Cookies

Spread a small amount of filling on one cooled cookie, then top with another cookie to create a sandwich. Repeat until all cookies are filled.

Step 11: Store or Serve

Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for up to one week. These cookies taste even better after resting overnight!

How to Serve Maple Leaf Cream Cookies

Maple Leaf Cream Cookies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with various serving suggestions. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these delicious treats!

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing your cookies with a chilled glass of milk complements their sweet flavors perfectly, creating a classic combination.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include Maple Leaf Cream Cookies on a dessert platter alongside other sweet treats like brownies and fruit tarts for an impressive spread at parties.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve these cookies with fresh fruit like strawberries or apples to balance the sweetness and add a refreshing contrast.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• For an elegant touch, lightly dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving, enhancing their visual appeal.

In Coffee or Tea Time

• Enjoy these cookies during your coffee or tea time. The rich flavors of maple pair wonderfully with both beverages.

How to Perfect Maple Leaf Cream Cookies

To ensure your Maple Leaf Cream Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Room Temperature Butter: This helps achieve a light and fluffy texture in the dough, essential for melt-in-your-mouth cookies.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use a spoon to scoop flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents dense cookies due to excess flour.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps maintain its shape while baking and enhances flavor development.

• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Limit rolling out your dough to avoid tough cookies. Aim for just two rolls after cutting out shapes.

• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; overbaking can lead to dry cookies. They should be lightly golden at the edges.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Leaf Cream Cookies

Maple Leaf Cream Cookies can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is a perfect match, providing a cool contrast to the warm flavors of maple.

2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that pairs nicely with sweet cookies.

4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can complement the sweetness of the cookies while adding depth to your dessert table.

5. Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Melted chocolate makes for a decadent dip that elevates the cookie experience even further.

6. Nutty Granola Bars: These provide crunch and health benefits, making them an excellent counterpoint to soft cookies.

7. Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea can cleanse the palate between bites of rich maple flavor, enhancing your dessert enjoyment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Maple Leaf Cream Cookies, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Boldly overmixing the dough – Mixing the dough too much can make the cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Boldly skipping chilling time – Chilling the dough is crucial for shaping and achieving the right consistency. Always chill for at least 30 minutes.
• Boldly neglecting flour on surfaces – Not using enough flour on your rolling surface or cookie cutter can cause sticking. Dust generously to prevent this.
• Boldly underbaking the cookies – Taking cookies out too early may lead to a doughy center. Bake until barely golden brown around the edges.
• Boldly using cold butter – Starting with cold butter can affect how well it incorporates into the sugar. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for optimal mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Maple Leaf Cream Cookies

• Freeze assembled cookies in an airtight container for up to three months.
• Use wax paper between layers for easier separation when thawing.

Reheating Maple Leaf Cream Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-7 minutes to restore freshness.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a covered pan over low heat for a few minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Maple Leaf Cream Cookies:

What are Maple Leaf Cream Cookies?

Maple Leaf Cream Cookies are delightful sandwich cookies filled with a creamy maple filling, perfect for dessert or a sweet treat.

How do I store Maple Leaf Cream Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I customize Maple Leaf Cream Cookies?

Yes! You can experiment with different extracts or add nuts and spices to the filling for added flavor.

Are Maple Leaf Cream Cookies suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! Their unique shape and delicious flavor make them perfect for celebrations or holiday gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Maple Leaf Cream Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet maple flavor, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Feel free to customize the filling or add your favorite spices to make these cookies your own!

Print

Maple Leaf Cream Cookies

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of Maple Leaf Cream Cookies, a beautiful blend of buttery shortbread and luscious maple cream filling. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich maple flavor, they’re sure to impress friends and family alike. Simple to prepare and even better when made ahead, these cookies will quickly become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire. Pair them with tea or coffee to elevate your treat time!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 11 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup maple sugar
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon maple extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• For the filling: 1/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature), 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon maple extract, 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat together room temperature butter and maple sugar until blended. Add powdered sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in pure maple syrup and maple extract.
4. In another bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, and salt together; gradually combine with wet ingredients until dough forms.
5. Chill dough for at least 30 minutes. Roll out to about 1/8 inch thick and cut into shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden around the edges; cool completely on wire racks.
7. For the filling, beat together remaining butter, powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, maple extract, and salt until smooth.
8. Assemble by spreading filling between two cooled cookies.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Canadian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Ensure butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. Consider adding chopped nuts or spices to the filling for extra flavor variations. Store in an airtight container for up to one week; flavors improve after resting overnight.