# Components:
→ Maple Leaf Cookies
01 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
04 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
07 - 1 large egg
08 - 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Royal Icing
10 - 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
11 - 2 large egg whites or 4 tablespoons meringue powder plus 1/4 cup water
12 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla or maple extract
13 - Food coloring in autumn shades (red, orange, yellow, brown, green)
→ Toppings
14 - Assorted sprinkles
15 - Edible glitter or sugar pearls
16 - Mini chocolate chips (optional)
# Preparation steps:
01 - Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and fine sea salt in a medium bowl until evenly mixed.
02 - Beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy.
03 - Add the egg, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until fully combined.
04 - Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a cohesive dough forms.
05 - Divide the dough in half, shape into flattened disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm.
06 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
07 - On a lightly floured surface, roll each disk to a uniform 1/4-inch thickness. Use a maple leaf cookie cutter to cut shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, leaving 1 inch between each.
08 - Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
09 - Beat powdered sugar and egg whites (or meringue powder mixture) until thick and glossy. Flavor with vanilla or maple extract. Divide icing into separate bowls and add food coloring as desired.
10 - Fill piping bags with colored icing and decorate cooled cookies creatively. Add sprinkles, edible glitter, or mini chocolate chips. Allow icing to fully set before serving or packaging.
