Let me introduce you to Maple Shortbread, the buttery Canadian classic with a twist of natural maple sweetness. Each bite offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake. Whether you’re looking to wow guests, make a holiday treat, or simply indulge in a little afternoon magic, these cookies promise rustic elegance and pure delight. They’re incredibly easy to make but will taste like you put your heart and soul into every golden crumb.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Maple Shortbread recipe shines because of its simplicity; just a handful of quality ingredients come together to produce rich, nuanced flavor and tender texture. You’ll want to reach for your best maple syrup and real butter, as each ingredient has its moment to star.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Using high-quality butter is crucial, as it forms the foundation for that unforgettable crumbly texture.
- Pure maple syrup (1/2 cup): Opt for Grade A dark maple syrup for the deepest, most luscious flavor—this is the soul of Maple Shortbread.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): The flour brings structure, keeping the cookies just crisp enough while staying deliciously tender.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a touch enhances all those beautiful flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds complexity and warmth, balancing the maple with subtle floral notes.
How to Make Maple Shortbread
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Tools
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) so it’s perfectly hot when your cookies are ready. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal and even baking—Maple Shortbread loves a gentle approach!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Maple Syrup
In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened butter and maple syrup together until the mixture is creamy, fluffy, and temptingly smooth. This step ensures that the cookies will have that characteristic velvety texture and that the maple flavor is packed into every bite.
Step 3: Add Flavorings
Stir in the vanilla extract, which will lend a layer of warmth and depth, making the finished Maple Shortbread taste even more luxurious. Mix until just combined, savoring the dreamy scent as you go.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt to your wet mixture, stirring just until all the flour disappears and a soft, pliable dough forms. Try not to overmix—this is the secret to keeping your shortbread tender and not tough.
Step 5: Roll and Shape the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface, then turn out the dough and gently roll it to about 1/4-inch thickness. Grab your favorite cookie cutters (maple leaves for a theme, maybe!), and press out shapes. Simple circles look elegant, too. Transfer the cut-outs to your prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Slide the tray into your hot oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, watching closely as the edges barely begin to turn golden. Let the Maple Shortbread cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then move to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures a perfect, crisp texture and lets the flavors settle in beautifully.
How to Serve Maple Shortbread
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar makes these cookies look even more enchanting, while a tiny drizzle of maple glaze or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans will give you extra visual appeal and a hint of crunch.
Side Dishes
While Maple Shortbread is delightful on its own, you can make it part of an afternoon treat with a cup of strong tea, creamy coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a lovely dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Maple Shortbread in a rustic tin lined with parchment for gifting, or pile them high on a cake stand for a festive centerpiece. If you’re feeling fancy, sandwich two cookies with whipped maple butter for a show-stopping treat that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Maple Shortbread fresh by storing cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll happily stay tender and delicious for up to a week—if they last that long!
Freezing
Wrap cooled cookies tightly and freeze in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature, and they’ll taste almost as perfect as the day you baked them.
Reheating
If you want to recapture that fresh-baked magic, warm Maple Shortbread briefly in a low oven (about 275°F) for 3–4 minutes. This brings back a touch of crispness and revives their wonderful aroma.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but if you’re using salted butter, reduce or omit the extra salt in the recipe to keep the flavors balanced. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the final taste of your Maple Shortbread.
What type Dessert
Grade A dark maple syrup is ideal because it provides robust flavor and deep color, making your Maple Shortbread extra aromatic and visually appealing. Lighter syrups will work, but might not deliver that signature maple punch.
Can I chill the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before rolling makes it easier to handle and helps the shortbread hold its shape during baking, resulting in crisp, clean edges.
How do I make the cookies extra crispy?
If you love a crisper bite, simply bake your Maple Shortbread for 1–2 minutes longer, but keep a close eye on the edges—they should be just golden, not browned.
Is there a gluten-free alternative to all-purpose flour?
You can swap in a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. The taste will stay lovely, though texture may be a touch different.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort in cookie form, Maple Shortbread is your new go-to. Sweet, buttery, and beautifully simple, these cookies always find a way to brighten the day. Don’t wait for a special occasion—try them soon, and share the magic with someone you love.
Print
Maple Shortbread Recipe
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, buttery sweetness of these delectable Maple Shortbread cookies. Made with pure maple syrup, these Canadian treats are perfect for holiday baking or anytime you crave a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth dessert.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and maple syrup: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and maple syrup until smooth and fluffy.
- Add vanilla and dry ingredients: Mix in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Roll and cut: Roll out the dough on a floured surface, cut into shapes using cookie cutters, and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 15–18 minutes until the edges are just golden. Cool on the pan briefly, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use Grade A dark maple syrup for the richest flavor.
- Chill dough before rolling for cleaner edges.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
