Name: Maple Walnut Cut Out Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-488399H43M12S
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup pure maple syrup; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are full of warm, cozy flavor thanks to real maple syrup and toasted walnuts. Unlike many cut-out cookies, they’re not just pretty—they taste amazing, too. The dough is easy to roll and doesn’t spread in the oven, making it ideal for detailed shapes. Whether you decorate them with icing or enjoy them plain, these cookies are as versatile as they are tasty.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

unsalted butter, softened
granulated sugar
pure maple syrup
egg
vanilla extract
all-purpose flour
baking powder
salt
finely chopped walnuts

Directions

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
Stir in the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
Divide the dough into two portions, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ¼ inch thick.
Cut out shapes using your favorite cookie cutters and place them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
Allow cookies to cool on the pan for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorate as desired or enjoy plain.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 30–36 cookies, depending on the size of your cutters.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Bake time: 8–10 minutes per batch
Total time: about 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Maple glaze: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and maple syrup.
Add spice: Mix in cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spiced version.
No nuts: Omit the walnuts for a smooth, nut-free dough.
Whole wheat: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
Decorated: Use royal icing or colored sugar for festive holiday cookies.

Storage/Reheating

Store fully cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 3 months.
To thaw, leave them at room temperature for 20–30 minutes. Reheat briefly in a 300°F oven if you want to refresh their crispness.

FAQs

Can I use artificial maple syrup?

Pure maple syrup is recommended for the best flavor, but you can substitute if needed—just expect a slightly different taste.

Do the walnuts need to be toasted?

Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor, but it’s optional. Raw chopped walnuts work fine.

Can I decorate these cookies?

Yes! These cookies are great for decorating with icing, sprinkles, or glaze.

How do I keep the dough from sticking when rolling?

Use a lightly floured surface and rolling pin, and chill the dough well before rolling.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance.

What’s the best thickness for cut-out cookies?

Roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick for cookies that are sturdy but not too thick.

Will these cookies spread in the oven?

Very little, making them ideal for cut-out shapes that hold their detail.

Can I use a food processor to chop the walnuts?

Absolutely. Just pulse until finely chopped—avoid turning them into a paste.

Are these cookies soft or crisp?

They have a tender center with lightly crisp edges, especially when baked for the full 10 minutes.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling and baking.

Conclusion

Maple Walnut Cut Out Cookies are a delightful upgrade from ordinary sugar cookies, offering rich flavor and a satisfying texture. Perfect for holiday baking, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with a warm drink, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. With their simple preparation and customizable decoration, they’re bound to become a go-to in your seasonal baking lineup.