Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3

Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and blend until well combined.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a cohesive dough forms.

Step 6

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape the dough into balls (about 1-inch in diameter) and place them onto the prepared cookie sheets, ensuring they're spaced apart.

Step 7

Lightly press down each cookie ball with a fork and sprinkle with coarse sugar for added texture and sweetness if desired.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.

Step 9

Once done, remove from the oven and let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the maple cream frosting. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. Depending on the desired consistency, add heavy cream or milk, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until creamy.

Step 11

Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous layer of the maple cream frosting on top of each cookie.