Maple Glazed Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

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

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Beat in the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, placing them about 2 inches apart.

7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.

9. Once the cookies are cool, drizzle or spread the glaze over each cookie. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

For a nutty twist, add a handful of finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the cookie dough. If you have kids who aren’t keen on nuts, sprinkle some colorful sugar crystals on top of the glaze before it sets to make the cookies more fun and festive. For those looking to reduce sugar, try using a sugar substitute that measures cup-for-cup with regular sugar. Lastly, for a tangy flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the glaze.