Description
These Maple Shortbread Cookies blend the rich, buttery texture of classic shortbread with the sweet, aromatic flavor of pure maple syrup. Perfectly crisp on the edges and tender inside, these cookies make a delightful treat for tea time or any occasion. The recipe allows you to easily adjust the sweetness by varying the maple syrup to your preference.
Ingredients
Maple Shortbread Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt (if using unsalted butter)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Cream Butter and Maple Syrup: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and pure maple syrup. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is creamy and slightly fluffy, ensuring the syrup is fully incorporated into the butter.
- Add Flour and Salt: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter and maple mixture. If you are using unsalted butter, add the ¼ teaspoon salt at this stage as well. Mix gently until a soft dough forms that holds together when pressed, but avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Add the Dough to the Pan: Transfer the dough into a 9-inch round pan lined with parchment paper. Press the dough evenly with your fingers to create a uniform layer. Using a fork, gently poke the dough surface to create holes; this helps with even baking.
- Roll and Cut Option: Alternatively, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) thickness using a rolling pin. Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters, or slice into squares or rectangles for a classic shortbread look.
- Transfer to Baking Sheet: Carefully place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for gentle spreading during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges become lightly golden. Keep a close watch to prevent over-browning as oven temperatures may vary.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing them to firm up and develop their perfect texture.
- Serve: Enjoy these delicious Maple Shortbread Cookies alongside your favorite tea or coffee, or savor them as a sweet treat anytime throughout the day.
Notes
- Parchment Tip: Crinkle up the parchment paper underwater to make it moist and crinkly. This technique helps the parchment conform better to the baking pan, preventing it from shifting during baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
