Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a cookie sheet with a baking mat (or grease cookie sheets).

In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar. Add the egg, syrup and maple extract. Mix until well blended.

Sift together the flour, salt and baking soda. Stir into butter mixture until well blended. Shape into 1 inch balls and roll in sugar, if using. Place on cookie sheets about 2 inches apart and flatten slightly.

Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven. Let cool on wire rack.