Homemade Maple Sandwich Cookies with Silky Maple Buttercream: The Ultimate Fall Treat

Indulge in the cozy flavors of autumn with these delightful Maple Sandwich Cookies. These simple yet elegant treats feature buttery, tender cookies, perfectly rolled and cut into charming maple leaf shapes, then lovingly sandwiched together with a luscious, silky maple buttercream. They are an absolute staple for fall gatherings, holiday dessert tables, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of coffee on a crisp afternoon. Get ready to impress with this irresistible maple cookie recipe that perfectly captures the essence of the season.

maple sandwich cookies with maple buttercream filling

These exquisite maple leaf cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of soft, slightly flaky cookie and a rich, sweet maple filling. The secret to their distinct and addictive flavor lies in the high-quality maple extract used in both the cookie dough and the buttercream. This ingredient infuses the treats with an authentic maple taste that is incredibly hard to resist, making them a standout among other sweet indulgences. Whether you call them maple leaf cookies, maple cream cookies, or simply the best fall cookie sandwiches, they are guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Why These Maple Sandwich Cookies Will Become Your New Favorite

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these charming maple-flavored cookies. From their delightful taste to their festive appearance, they offer something special for every occasion and palate:

Unique and Captivating Flavor: Unlike many standard cookie recipes, these maple sandwich cookies boast a truly distinctive taste. The rich, sweet notes of maple extract blend harmoniously with the buttery cookie base, creating a balanced and deeply satisfying flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a flavor that evokes autumn, crisp air, and cozy moments.
Festive and Eye-Catching Appearance: The use of maple leaf cookie cutters transforms these simple cookies into beautiful, seasonal masterpieces. Their iconic shape makes them ideal for fall events, Thanksgiving celebrations, or any autumnal gathering. You can elevate their look even further by dusting them with a touch of cinnamon sugar or adding a light drizzle of royal icing for an extra touch of elegance.
Perfect for Thoughtful Gifting: Homemade cookies are always a cherished gift, and these maple leaf cookies are no exception. Their unique flavor and charming presentation make them an excellent choice for holiday gift baskets, hostess presents, or a sweet surprise for friends and family. Package them in a decorative box or bag, and you have a thoughtful and delicious present that shows you care.
Remarkably Easy to Make: Despite their gourmet appeal, this recipe for maple cream cookies is surprisingly straightforward. With clear, step-by-step instructions, even novice bakers can achieve perfect results. The dough comes together quickly, and the assembly is simple, making them a fantastic project for a relaxing afternoon in the kitchen.
Versatile for Any Occasion: While they shine during fall and winter, these cookies are truly enjoyable year-round. They can be adapted for various holidays by simply changing the cookie cutter shape. Imagine star-shaped maple cookies for Christmas or heart-shaped ones for Valentine’s Day.
A Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser: The irresistible combination of buttery shortbread-like cookies and sweet maple buttercream ensures these treats will be a hit with everyone. They appeal to both children and adults, making them perfect for parties, bake sales, or family dessert.

Essential Ingredients for Your Maple Cookie Sandwiches

Creating these heavenly maple sandwich cookies requires a few key ingredients, each playing a vital role in achieving their perfect texture and flavor. Pay attention to the quality and temperature of your ingredients for the best results!

For the Buttery Maple Cookie Dough:

Butter (1 cup, softened): Unsalted butter is preferred to control the overall saltiness. Ensure it’s perfectly softened – not melted – allowing it to cream smoothly with other ingredients, creating a tender, rich cookie base that almost melts in your mouth.
Heavy Whipping Cream (⅓ cup): This is the secret to an incredibly tender and moist cookie. Heavy cream adds richness and helps create that delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture that distinguishes these cookies.
Maple Extract (½ tsp): The star of the show! High-quality maple extract infuses the cookies with that authentic, warm maple flavor. It’s concentrated, so a little goes a long way to give a distinct and delicious aroma and taste.
All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): The foundational structure of our cookies. Measure it carefully using the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense or dry cookies. Over-measuring flour is a common baking mistake that can lead to crumbly dough.
Granulated Sugar (2 TBSP): Just a touch of sugar in the dough sweetens it subtly, allowing the maple flavor to truly shine without being overly cloying. It also contributes to the delicate crispness of the cookie edges.

For the Silky Maple Buttercream Filling:

Butter (¼ cup, softened): Again, softened unsalted butter forms the creamy base of our buttercream. Its smooth texture is crucial for a lump-free and spreadable filling.
Powdered Sugar (1 cup): Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this fine sugar dissolves easily to create a smooth, velvety buttercream. Sifting it can help prevent lumps, ensuring a truly silky consistency.
Maple Extract (½ tsp): A second dose of maple extract in the filling amplifies the flavor, ensuring every bite is bursting with sweet maple goodness. This makes the filling the perfect complement to the cookie.
Milk (3-4 tsp): Use this sparingly to achieve the desired consistency for your buttercream. Start with less and add more a teaspoon at a time until the filling is easily spreadable but still holds its shape without being too thin or runny. Any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy) will work.

Essential Equipment You’ll Need:

To craft these beautiful maple sandwich cookies, you’ll need a few standard baking tools:

Large Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients for both the dough and the buttercream.
Electric Mixer (Handheld or Stand Mixer): Highly recommended for efficiently creaming butter and sugar and blending the dough, as well as whipping the buttercream to a smooth consistency.
Spatulas and Whisks: For scraping down bowls and incorporating ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
Rolling Pin: For rolling out the cookie dough evenly.
Maple Leaf Cookie Cutter (2-3″): This is key for achieving the iconic festive shape. You can find a good 2-3″ Maple Leaf cookie cutter here.
Baking Sheets: Ungreased, for baking the cookies.
Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats: Recommended for easy removal of cookies and consistent baking.
Wire Cooling Racks: For allowing your cookies to cool completely before filling.
Plastic Wrap: For chilling the cookie dough.

How to Make Your Irresistible Maple Sandwich Cookies

Follow these detailed steps to create delicious and beautiful maple leaf cookies from scratch. Patience and precision will lead to perfectly baked and filled treats!

Step 1: Preparing the Cookie Dough

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together 1 cup of softened butter, ⅓ cup of heavy whipping cream, and ½ teaspoon of maple extract. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually for 2-3 minutes. This ensures even distribution of flavors and a smooth base.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as no white streaks of flour remain. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Chill the Dough: Divide the cookie dough into two equal halves. Shape each half into a flattened disk. Wrap each disk tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. Chilling is a crucial step for these cookies, helping the butter solidify, which prevents excessive spreading during baking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. We’ll discuss this more in detail below!

Step 2: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

Once your dough has chilled sufficiently for an hour, it’s time to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy release and consistent baking. No need to grease if using parchment or mats.

Step 3: Shaping Your Maple Leaf Cookies

Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface (or between two sheets of parchment paper for less mess and easier handling), take one half of the chilled dough. Roll it out evenly to an ⅛ inch thickness. Keep the other half of the dough refrigerated until you are ready to use it. Rolling to a consistent thickness ensures even baking.
Cut Cookies: Using your 2-inch maple-leaf cookie cutter, cut out as many shapes as possible from the rolled dough. Carefully transfer each cookie leaf to your prepared baking sheets, spacing them approximately 1 inch apart.
Prepare for Baking: Lightly sprinkle each cut-out cookie with a little extra granulated sugar for a lovely sparkling finish and added texture. Then, gently prick each cookie 3 or 4 times with a fork. This helps prevent large air pockets and adds to the rustic charm of the cookies.
Repeat Process: Gather any leftover dough scraps, gently re-roll them, and cut out more cookies until all the dough has been used. Remember not to overwork the dough when re-rolling. Repeat the shaping process with the second chilled dough disk.

Step 4: Baking the Cookies

Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 7 to 10 minutes. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them. The cookies are done when they are slightly puffed and their edges turn a light golden brown.
Cooling: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for just 1 minute after removing them from the oven. They will be delicate when hot. After a minute, carefully transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely. It is essential for the cookies to be entirely cool before adding the filling, otherwise, the buttercream will melt.

Step 5: Crafting the Maple Buttercream Filling and Assembling

Prepare the Filling: While the cookies are cooling, prepare the maple buttercream. In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of softened butter, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and ½ teaspoon of maple extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 3-4 teaspoons of milk, starting with less and adding more until the icing reaches a spreadable consistency – it should be thick enough to hold its shape but easy to spread without tearing the cookies.
Assemble the Sandwich Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, take one cookie and spread about 1 teaspoon of the maple buttercream filling on its flat side. Take another cooled cookie and gently press it on top of the filling, creating a perfect sandwich. Repeat this process with the remaining cookies and filling.
Serve and Enjoy!: Your beautiful and delicious Maple Sandwich Cookies are now ready to be served! Arrange them on a platter and watch them disappear.

Maple Sandwich Cookies

Maple Sandwich Cookies are a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth. This maple cookie recipe is made with simple ingredients such as flour, sugar, butter, and milk, making them easy to make at home. These festive maple leaf cookies with a rich maple buttercream are an ideal treat for any fall or holiday gathering.

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Course: Cookies, Dessert, treat

Cuisine: American

Keyword: maple cookies, Maple Sandwich Cookies, maple leaf cookies, fall cookies, buttercream cookies

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 13 minutes

Total Time: 33 minutes

Servings: 9 cookies

Calories: 420kcal

Author: Jessica & Nellie

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Ingredients

1 cup butter softened
⅓ cup heavy whipping cream
½ tsp maple extract
2 cups flour
2 TBSP sugar

Maple Buttercream Filling:

¼ cup butter softened
1 cup powdered sugar
½ tsp maple extract
3-4 tsp milk

Instructions

Dough: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup softened butter, ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream, and ½ tsp maple extract; blend well with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually stir in 2 cups of flour and 2 TBSP sugar until just combined and no white streaks remain.
Divide dough in half; shape each half into a flattened disk. Wrap each tightly in plastic wrap; refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for preventing spread and developing flavor.
Prep: Once the dough has been chilled for an hour, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Shape: On a lightly floured surface or between two sheets of parchment paper, roll half of the dough to ⅛ inch thickness. Keep the remaining dough refrigerated. Using a 2-inch maple-leaf cookie cutter, cut out shapes and place them 1 inch apart on prepared cookie sheets.
Sprinkle each cookie with a little sugar. Prick each cookie 3 or 4 times with a fork. Re-roll leftover dough gently and repeat until all dough is used.
Bake: Bake for 7 to 10 minutes, or until slightly puffed and edges are light golden brown. Let cool on baking sheets for 1 minute; then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Ensure cookies are fully cool before filling.
Filling & Assembly: In a small bowl, blend all filling ingredients (¼ cup softened butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, ½ tsp maple extract), adding 3-4 tsp milk gradually until smooth and spreadable. Spread about 1 tsp filling on one cooled cookie, then gently press another cookie on top to create a sandwich. Enjoy your homemade maple sandwich cookies!

Notes

These maple sandwich cookies will stay fresh for up to 5-7 days if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For optimal flavor and texture, it’s best to consume them within a few days of baking.

To store for a longer period, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours. Freezing cookies before filling can also be a good option if you want to prepare ahead.

Nutrition

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Tips for Achieving Perfect Maple Sandwich Cookies

Baking is both an art and a science, and a few key techniques can elevate your maple leaf cookies from good to absolutely perfect:

Mastering Cookie Dough Rolling

Rolling out cookie dough can sometimes be a challenge, but these tips will make it a breeze:

Flouring the Surface: Traditionally, you would sprinkle your countertop with flour or powdered sugar before rolling. This method works well, but be cautious. Only re-roll the dough scraps twice. Each time you re-roll, you incorporate more flour into the dough, which can alter the flour ratio. Too much extra flour makes the cookies tough, hard, and crumbly.
Parchment Paper Perfection: For a no-mess, consistent approach, roll your dough between two sheets of parchment paper. This eliminates the need for extra flour on your surface, prevents sticking, and makes cleanup incredibly easy. An added bonus is that you can chill the entire sheet of rolled-out dough (still between the parchment paper) before cutting, which helps maintain the cookie shape even better.
Even Thickness is Key: Aim for an ⅛ inch thickness across the entire dough. Use a ruler or rolling pin guides if you have them. Consistent thickness ensures that all your cookies bake evenly, preventing some from burning while others remain undercooked.

The Importance of Chilling Your Cookie Dough

You might be tempted to skip the chilling step, but in recipes like these maple sandwich cookies, it’s absolutely vital for several reasons:

Prevents Spreading: Chilling the dough solidifies the butter and other fats. When the cold dough hits the warm oven, the butter takes longer to melt, allowing the cookie structure to set before the fats completely liquify. This results in cookies that hold their shape better, preventing them from spreading too much and losing their beautiful maple leaf definition.
Enhances Flavor: The time spent chilling allows the flavors to deepen and meld together. The maple extract, butter, and cream have more time to infuse into the flour, resulting in a richer, more complex, and flavorful cookie.
Improved Texture: Chilling helps hydrate the flour, creating a more tender and delicate crumb. It also makes the dough easier to handle and roll without it sticking or becoming too soft.
Consistent Results: Dough that has been properly chilled will bake more consistently, yielding uniform cookies in both shape and texture.

Maple Sandwich Cookies are simple buttery cookies rolled & cut with maple leaf cookie cutters and sandwiched with a silky maple buttercream!

Maple Leaf Cookie Cutters: Your Key to Festive Shapes

Yes, absolutely! Maple leaf cookie cutters are widely available, especially during the fall and holiday seasons. You can easily find them online, in specialty baking supply stores, and even in many general retailers. They come in a variety of sizes and materials, including durable plastic, classic metal, and flexible silicone. Using a good quality maple leaf cookie cutter will not only give your Maple Sandwich Cookies their signature festive shape but also enhance their visual appeal, making them even more delightful to serve and receive.

Storage Tips: How Long Do Maple Sandwich Cookies Last?

To keep your delicious Maple Sandwich Cookies fresh and enjoyable for as long as possible, proper storage is key:

Room Temperature: Once assembled, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 to 7 days. Make sure the container is truly airtight to prevent them from drying out or becoming stale. For optimal freshness and texture, it’s best to enjoy them within the first few days of baking.
Refrigeration: While not strictly necessary, if your kitchen is particularly warm, or if you prefer a firmer buttercream, you can store them in the refrigerator. Just be aware that the cookies might firm up slightly, but they will soften as they come back to room temperature.
Freezing for Longer Storage: For extended storage, freezing is an excellent option. You can freeze the baked, unfrosted cookies or the fully assembled sandwich cookies.

Unfrosted Cookies: Bake the cookies as directed and let them cool completely. Layer them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before filling.
Assembled Sandwich Cookies: If freezing after filling, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm (about 1-2 hours). Once firm, transfer them to an airtight freezer container, again using parchment paper between layers if stacking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for several hours before serving.

Whether you’re making them for immediate enjoyment or planning ahead for a special occasion, these storage tips will ensure your maple cream cookies remain as delicious as the day they were baked.

Creative Variations & Serving Suggestions

While these maple sandwich cookies are perfect as is, you can always get creative and customize them to your liking:

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a tiny dash of ground cloves to the cookie dough for an even warmer, spiced fall flavor.
Different Extracts: While maple is central, a tiny bit of vanilla extract can enhance the overall sweetness. You could also experiment with a hint of rum extract for a more sophisticated profile.
Glaze or Drizzle: Instead of or in addition to the buttercream, you could drizzle the finished cookies with a simple maple glaze made from powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a touch of milk.
Sprinkle Fun: Add some festive sprinkles to the edges of the buttercream filling before pressing the top cookie on, or sprinkle them on top of the finished sandwiches for a pop of color.
Alternative Fillings: If you want to change things up, consider a cream cheese frosting, a simple vanilla buttercream, or even a spiced apple butter filling for a different take on the sandwich cookie.

These maple leaf cookies are delightful served with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or hot cider. They also make an elegant addition to any dessert platter, especially alongside other fall-themed treats. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maple Sandwich Cookies

Here are answers to some common questions you might have when making these delicious maple sandwich cookies:

Can I use real maple syrup instead of maple extract?
While real maple syrup is delicious, maple extract provides a more concentrated and consistent maple flavor in baking, especially in cookie doughs and buttercreams where liquid content matters. Using too much maple syrup could alter the texture of both the cookie and the filling. If you want to use syrup, try adding a tablespoon or two to the buttercream and reducing the milk slightly, but stick to extract for the primary flavor.
What if I don’t have a maple leaf cookie cutter?
No problem! While the maple leaf shape adds a festive touch, you can use any cookie cutter you have on hand – circles, squares, or even simply cut squares with a knife. The flavor will still be just as wonderful, even without the iconic shape.
My dough is too sticky to roll. What should I do?
This usually means the dough needs more chilling time or slightly more flour. Ensure your butter wasn’t too soft to begin with. If it’s still sticky after chilling for an hour, try chilling for another 30 minutes. You can also lightly flour your rolling surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking, but be mindful not to incorporate too much extra flour into the dough.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Absolutely! This is a great make-ahead recipe. You can prepare the cookie dough up to 2-3 days in advance and keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Just let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before rolling if it’s too hard.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
Common reasons for cookie spread include insufficient chilling of the dough, butter that was too soft or melted, or an oven that isn’t at the correct temperature (too low). Ensure your oven is accurately calibrated with an oven thermometer and that your dough is well-chilled.

Need more Fall cookie recipes? Try more of our favorite here:

Maple Donut Cookies
Microwave Pumpkin Spice Caramels
Caramel Apple Snickerdoodles
Tiger Butter Candy
Snickerdoodle Apple Cobbler
Gooey Holiday Chex Mix
Easy Cracker Toffee
Peach Snickerdoodles
Easy Peanut Clusters
Frosted Snickerdoodles
Soft Jam Thumbprint Cookies
Apple Cider Snickerdoodles
Gingerbread Cookie Bites
Snickerdoodle Apple Pie
Pumpkin Pudding Cookies
Apple Snickerdoodles
Gingerbread Cookie Bites
Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars
Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies

These delightful Maple Sandwich Cookies truly embody the spirit of the season, offering a comforting and flavorful experience with every bite. The sweet maple filling nestled between two soft, flaky cookies creates an unparalleled treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special gathering or simply indulging in a moment of sweet bliss, these cookie sandwiches are sure to become a cherished part of your fall traditions. Don’t hesitate to bake a batch today and share the joy of homemade goodness!