Autumn Leaf Cookies {with Maple Syrup}

I know its December, but I just had to share this cookie recipe with you. Its amazing! Flavored with rich maple syrup, they have a sweetness thats subtle and delicious. I think they'd make a fantastic substitution for gingerbread for those of you who love the little men, but don't love gingerbread. 

Once again, you can thank my Mom for this one! 

Autumn Leaf Cookies {with Maple Syrup}

Makes 3 dozen or so, depending on your cookie cutter size

1 cup butter

2/3 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup grade A or B Maple syrup

1/3 cup milk

3 1/2 cups all purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)

In a medium size saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup. Bring these ingredients to a boil, stirring periodically until the sugar is totally dissolved. Remove the saucepan from heat, and let cool to room temperature. Once cooled, stir in the milk. In a large separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and ground ginger. Add the syrup mixture into the dry mixture, stirring until totally combined. The dough has the consistency of paste at this stage, and is quite sticky. Divide the dough in half, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours. After the dough has chilled, roll the dough with a rolling pin on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Using cookie cutters, cut out shapes, placing them 1 inch or so apart on a baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 6-9 minutes, until the edges of the cookies are just slightly browned. Cool and enjoy!  

Yum. 

Since its cookie exchange party season, tell me, what are your favorite cookie recipes? 

Love, 

Caitlin