Vermont Maple Cookies: Soft, Sweet, & Packed with Cozy Flavors That Will Have You Reaching for More

If you’ve ever wanted to bake up a batch of cookies that’s packed with comforting flavors, look no further than these Vermont Maple Cookies. With the rich, sweet taste of maple syrup combined with the cozy warmth of chopped nuts, these cookies bring a taste of the northeast straight to your kitchen. Soft, pillowy, and finished with a golden maple butter glaze, each bite melts in your mouth and satisfies your sweet cravings in the most delightful way. Whether you're baking for a family gathering or simply want a delicious treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, these Vermont Maple Cookies are the perfect choice.

Scroll to the bottom for recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Vermont Maple Cookies

Vermont is famous for its stunning fall foliage and even more famous for its maple syrup. These cookies capture the essence of that region with their rich, maple flavor combined with the creaminess of sour cream and the nuttiness of raw pecans. The cookies are a blend of soft, cake-like texture and the crunch of nuts, making them irresistible. And let’s not forget the maple butter glaze—perfectly drizzled on top for that extra sweetness that’s hard to resist. These cookies are a sweet tribute to the flavors of Vermont, ideal for any time of the year.

Why Vermont Maple Cookies Will Be Your New Favorite Dessert

The combination of maple extract, brown sugar, and sour cream in these cookies creates a texture that’s both soft and decadent. The addition of chopped nuts adds a delightful crunch, making each bite full of flavor and texture. The maple butter glaze is the real show-stopper—giving these cookies an extra touch of sweetness and creating an irresistible finish. They’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Plus, they have a comforting flavor profile that’ll have you reminiscing about cozy autumn afternoons in Vermont, even if you’ve never been there.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 12 Cookies):

• Calories: 290 kcal
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fiber: 1g

These cookies are perfect on their own but pair well with a cup of hot coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Vermont Maple Cookies are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of drinks and sides. For a comforting fall dessert, serve these cookies with a steaming cup of hot apple cider or a classic latte. The maple flavors in the cookies beautifully complement the warmth of the drinks, creating a perfect match. If you’re in the mood for something colder, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—the creaminess of the ice cream enhances the flavors of the maple and adds another layer of indulgence. No matter how you serve them, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

To store these cookies, place them in an airtight container for up to five days at room temperature. If you’d like to make a larger batch, they also freeze well—just layer them between sheets of wax paper in a sealed container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply allow them to thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up. The glaze may soften a bit during freezing, but the flavor remains as delicious as ever.

Fun Fact: Vermont Maple Syrup

Did you know that Vermont is the largest producer of pure maple syrup in the United States? Maple syrup production in Vermont dates back to Native American times and has been a tradition passed down for generations. It takes about 40 gallons of sap to make just one gallon of pure maple syrup, making it a true labor of love. The result is a syrup that's prized for its rich, complex flavor—a flavor that shines in these delightful cookies.

Cooking Tips

• Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft after mixing, you can chill it for 30 minutes before baking. This will help the cookies hold their shape better.
• Nut Options: While raw pecans are the nut of choice in this recipe, feel free to substitute with walnuts or even leave them out if you're not a fan of nuts.
• Customize the Glaze: If you prefer a thinner glaze, simply add more hot water until you reach your desired consistency.

Optional Variations

• Add Dried Fruit: For an extra flavor boost, try adding dried cranberries or raisins to the dough. The tartness of the fruit pairs wonderfully with the sweet maple flavor.
• Chocolate Lovers: If you’re a fan of chocolate, drizzle melted chocolate over the glazed cookies for a decadent treat.

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Vermont Maple Cookies Recipe

Ingredients:

• ½ cup shortening
• 1 ½ cups brown sugar, packed
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon maple extract
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped raw pecans

Maple Butter Glaze Ingredients:

• ½ cup butter
• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 2 teaspoons maple extract
• 2-4 tablespoons hot water

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your baking sheets or line them with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined. Stir in the sour cream and maple extract.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until fully combined.
4. Add the pecans: Stir in the chopped raw pecans, mixing until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Drop the dough: Using a tablespoon, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake the cookies: Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden brown and almost no imprint remains when touched lightly.
7. Prepare the glaze: While the cookies are cooling, heat the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown. Whisk in the confectioners' sugar and maple extract. Gradually stir in the hot water, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
8. Glaze the cookies: Once the cookies have cooled, spread the maple butter glaze over each one. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Final Thoughts

Vermont Maple Cookies are the perfect treat for anyone who loves the taste of rich, buttery cookies with a sweet maple glaze. They're soft, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making them ideal for both casual snacking and special occasions. Whether you're looking for a new cookie recipe to add to your holiday baking list or just want a cozy dessert to enjoy on a chilly day, these cookies are guaranteed to hit the spot.