If you're looking for the ultimate fall-inspired cookie, these Butternut Cookies with Maple Glaze are everything you crave—soft, nutty, and perfectly spiced with a drizzle of sweet maple goodness. These cookies strike the perfect balance between a buttery, tender texture and a warm, comforting flavor from butternut squash and toasted nuts. The maple glaze adds a silky, caramel-like finish, making them absolutely irresistible.
Whether you enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee on a crisp morning or as an afternoon snack, these cookies are guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture to the cookies.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and helps with a light texture.
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar – Enhances depth of flavor with a hint of molasses.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Brings warmth and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 cup cooked and mashed butternut squash (or pumpkin puree as a substitute) – Creates a soft, moist texture and adds natural sweetness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the cookies, giving them structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Works with the baking powder for a light texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or a mix), plus more for topping – Adds crunch and a nutty depth of flavor.
For the Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Creates the base for a smooth, sweet glaze.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup – Infuses a rich, caramelized maple flavor.
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream – Adjusts the consistency for a smooth drizzle.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the glaze with a touch of warmth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Make the Cookie Dough
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air, resulting in softer cookies.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- If using butternut squash, stir it into the wet ingredients until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent dense cookies.
- Gently fold in the chopped nuts, reserving a handful for topping.
3. Shape and Bake
- Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Press a few extra nut pieces onto the top of each cookie for added crunch.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Maple Glaze
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- If the glaze is too thin, add more powdered sugar. If too thick, add a little more milk.
5. Drizzle and Serve
- Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the maple glaze over the top using a spoon or piping bag.
- Let the glaze set for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Soft and Moist – Thanks to the butternut squash, these cookies have an irresistibly tender crumb.
✔ Warm and Nutty – The combination of nuts, brown sugar, and maple glaze adds a deep, cozy flavor.
✔ Perfect for Fall – The flavors scream autumn, making these ideal for seasonal gatherings.
✔ Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
Pro Tips for Perfect Butternut Cookies
- Enhance the Warmth: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for extra fall flavor.
- Brown the Butter: For a deeper, richer taste, brown the butter before mixing it with the sugars.
- Make Them Chewier: Replace 1/4 cup of the all-purpose flour with oat flour for a slightly chewy texture.
- For Extra Maple Flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon of maple extract to the glaze for an intensified maple taste.
- Storage Tip: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them without the glaze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
These Butternut Cookies pair beautifully with:
- A hot cup of coffee or chai tea for the perfect fall treat.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of warm and cold.
- A drizzle of extra maple syrup for even more indulgence.
Final Thoughts
These Butternut Cookies with Maple Glaze are a cozy, delicious, and easy-to-make treat perfect for fall. With their soft texture, nutty crunch, and sweet maple drizzle, they’ll quickly become a seasonal favorite. Whether you bake them for a holiday gathering or a simple afternoon snack, they’re sure to impress.
Try this recipe today and experience the perfect blend of autumn flavors in every bite!