Preheat your oven to 180C/350F. It's crucial to preheat your oven as it ensures even baking. If you have an oven thermometer, it’s always good to check that your temperature is just right.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This step is important because it prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, add almond flour and baking powder, mixing them well. Take a moment to appreciate the texture of the flour; it's fine and can feel almost velvety in your hands.
Pour in the melted butter along with the maple syrup and vanilla extract. As you mix these ingredients, the batter should start to come together, becoming a thick and somewhat sticky dough.
Using a rubber spatula, fold through any additions like chocolate chips if you choose to include them. The goal is to evenly distribute the mix-ins without overworking the dough.
Form the dough into 6 large or 12 small balls. When forming the cookies, use your hands to shape them, ensuring they’re compact but not too tightly packed.
Place the cookie balls on the lined baking sheet, spacing them out to allow for spreading. Flatten them gently into a cookie shape with your palm or the back of a spoon.
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they just begin to turn golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as they will continue to cook slightly once removed from the oven.
Once done, remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet completely. This cooling period is essential as it helps the cookies set up perfectly without falling apart.