There’s something magical about Midcoast Maine in winter. The crisp air, snow-covered landscapes, and the charm of small-town life make it the perfect backdrop for cozy days and baking. And when it comes to flavors that embody Maine, maple syrup is at the heart of it all.

Maple syrup is more than a pantry staple here—it’s a tradition rooted in the region’s rich history. Local sugarhouses and maple farms dot the countryside, producing some of the finest syrup you’ll ever taste. Have you ever visited a sugar shack during Maine Maple Sunday? Or maybe you have picked up a bottle at a local market in Camden, Rockland, or Belfast.

One of the best ways to showcase this ingredient is through a batch of maple-glazed shortbread cookies. These buttery treats, finished with the golden sweetness of a maple glaze truly capture the essence of Midcoast Maine. They’re perfect for sharing with loved ones, gifting to neighbors, or simply savoring with a hot cup of tea while watching the snow fall.

Maple-Glazed Shortbread Cookies Recipe
Shortbread Ingredients 

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 2 cups all purpose flour

Maple Glaze Ingredients 

• 1/4 cup pure Maine maple syrup

• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted

• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Prepare the Shortbread Dough
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough comes together.

 Chill the Dough
 Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up.

 Roll and Cut the Cookies
 Preheat your oven to 325°F.
 Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie   cutters to create festive shapes, or simply slice the dough into squares or rectangles.

Bake the Shortbread
Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15–18 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. 
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.

Make the Maple Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding a touch more maple syrup if needed.

Glaze the Cookies
Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze or drizzle it over them. Let the glaze set before serving. 

A Taste of Midcoast Maine 
What makes these cookies truly special is the Maine maple syrup. It adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor that’s unmatched by store-bought substitutes. If you’re in the Midcoast area, consider sourcing your syrup locally. Many sugarhouses in the region offer fresh, high-quality syrup that makes all the difference in recipes like this.

Pairing Cookies with Midcoast Charm 
As you enjoy these cookies, imagine taking a stroll through Camden’s scenic harbor, visiting Rockland’s vibrant art galleries, or hiking a snowy trail in Belfast. These cookies aren’t just a treat—they’re a little taste of the warmth and beauty of Midcoast Maine during the holiday season.

So, preheat your oven, grab your favorite bottle of Maine maple syrup, and bake a batch of these delightful cookies! Share them with friends and family, or savor them while dreaming of your next Midcoast adventure.