Iced Maple Gingerbread Cookies
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Iced Maple Gingerbread Cookies are not just another dessert; they’re a delightful blend of warm spices and sweet maple syrup that can transform any occasion. Having baked these cookies during the dizzying holiday rush, I can tell you first-hand that they’re the kind of treat that sparks nostalgia and joy. Whether for a cozy family gathering, a festive celebration, or just to indulge your sweet tooth, these cookies will warm your heart and your home. Their unique iced finish makes them a standout, elevating classic gingerbread flavors into a treat that’s truly unforgettable.
Reasons to Try It
There are countless reasons to bake Iced Maple Gingerbread Cookies. For starters, they are incredibly versatile! Their festive flavor profile makes them perfect for holiday celebrations, but they can also be enjoyed year-round for a cozy snack or as a sweet surprise for guests. This delicious recipe is not only quick to whip up but also budget-friendly, requiring common pantry ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Plus, they’re kid-approved, making them a perfect project for involving little chefs in the kitchen.
"These cookies are a perfect combination of spice and sweetness. The icing adds a delightful touch that takes them to the next level. They disappeared at my Christmas party!" – Happy Baker
Preparing Iced Maple Gingerbread Cookies!
Let’s dive into how to make these delightful treats! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake. Here’s a quick rundown of the steps you’ll follow to create your gingerbread masterpieces: mix the dry ingredients, cream the butter and sugar, incorporate liquids, chill, shape, roll, and bake. Each phase adds to the distinct depth of flavor that makes these cookies so special.
What You’ll Need
To create your Iced Maple Gingerbread Cookies, gather the following key ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted sweet cream butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup dark molasses
- 1/3 cup sugar plus 1 tablespoon cinnamon (for rolling)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted sweet cream butter, melted (for icing)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for icing)
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup (for icing)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for icing)
Feel free to adjust the sugar or swap in gluten-free flour if you have specific dietary needs!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, and kosher salt until well combined.
- In a standing mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and dark molasses until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until fully combined.
- Once your dough is formed, cover it with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to chill.
- While the dough is chilling, prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture by combining 1/3 cup sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon in a small bowl.
- After chilling, use a small ice cream scooper to scoop out portions of dough. Roll each scoop into a ball and then roll the dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place the rolled cookie dough on the prepared cookie sheets, ensuring they are about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
- In a separate small bowl, melt the four tablespoons of butter and let it cool slightly before icing.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When serving Iced Maple Gingerbread Cookies, presentation is key! These cookies look delightful arranged on a festive platter, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or even drizzled with extra maple syrup for a special touch. Pair them with steaming mugs of hot cocoa or spiced chai tea for a comforting afternoon snack. They are the ideal addition to a holiday dessert table, sure to impress any guests with their charming looks and irresistible taste!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing your Iced Maple Gingerbread Cookies is straightforward and ensures that your leftovers stay delicious. Once cooled, you can keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to preserve their freshness for a longer period, consider freezing them. Layer your cookies between pieces of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Make sure to seal the container tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To ensure your cookies are perfect every time, here are a few tips:
- When measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense cookies.
- Chilling the dough is essential! It allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Experiment with the icing! You can add a dash of vanilla extract or even a hint of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
Creative Twists
Looking to switch things up? Here are some fun variations for your Iced Maple Gingerbread Cookies:
- Add chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in the center.
- Experiment with different spices like cardamom or nutmeg for a unique flavor profile.
- Make them vegan by substituting the butter with coconut oil and using a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
Your Questions Answered
Q: Can I substitute the molasses?
A: If you don’t have dark molasses, you can use light molasses or even honey, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Q: What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
A: If your dough is sticky after mixing, you can add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a manageable consistency.
Q: How long does it take for the cookies to cool before icing?
A: It’s best to wait for about 10 minutes. The cookies should be set and slightly warm but not hot to the touch before icing.
Get ready to enjoy the delightful flavors of Iced Maple Gingerbread Cookies, and share this recipe with anyone who loves a sweet treat that brings warmth and comfort!
Iced Maple Gingerbread Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, and kosher salt until well combined.
- In a standing mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and dark molasses until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until fully combined.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour to chill.
- While the dough is chilling, prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture by combining 1/3 cup sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon in a small bowl.
- After chilling, scoop portions of dough with a small ice cream scooper and roll each scoop into a ball.
- Roll the dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place the rolled cookie dough on the prepared cookie sheets, ensuring they are about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
- In a small bowl, melt the four tablespoons of butter and let it cool slightly before icing.
