These Apple Cider Cookies are the perfect blend of warmth and spice, making them an ideal treat for the cozy fall season. With a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider, they provide the perfect balance of sweet and spice, while the dried apples add an extra burst of flavor.
Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of cider or sharing them with friends at a fall gathering, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Soft and chewy on the inside with a delicate, sugary crust, they are the ultimate comfort food for the season. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can bake up a batch whenever you’re in the mood for a sweet treat.
Full Recipe:
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2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup packed brown sugar
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1 large egg
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1/4 cup apple cider
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup chopped dried apples
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1/4 cup granulated sugar, for rolling
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg, apple cider, and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the dried apples.
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Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and roll them in granulated sugar.
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Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and flatten them slightly with the bottom of a glass.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
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Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal per cookie | Servings: 24 cookies
The Process Behind Apple Cider Cookies
What sets these apple cider cookies apart from traditional cookies is the technique of reducing fresh apple cider into a thick syrup, concentrating its flavor. This method ensures that each bite is packed with the sweet, tangy essence of apple cider. The dough itself is spiced with a combination of cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg, giving the cookies a rich, aromatic flavor that’s reminiscent of a warm fall drink.
In addition to the spices, the dough also incorporates a hint of vanilla extract, which enhances the overall sweetness and balances out the intensity of the apple cider syrup. The cookies are then topped off with a sweet apple cider glaze, made from powdered sugar and more cider, further enhancing the apple flavor and providing a glossy, irresistible finish.
Why Apple Cider?
Apple cider has long been a hallmark of fall, whether enjoyed as a beverage or incorporated into baked goods. Unlike apple juice, apple cider is less filtered and retains a stronger, more complex flavor. By reducing cider into a syrup, the flavor intensifies, making it a perfect addition to baked goods. In these cookies, the cider is the star, providing that quintessential apple flavor that complements the spices and gives the cookies a uniquely autumnal taste.
If you’ve ever enjoyed a cup of hot apple cider on a chilly day, you’ll recognize the familiar comforting warmth in every bite of these cookies. The slight tang of cider pairs beautifully with the spices, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and savory that’s absolutely irresistible.
Baking Tips for Perfect Apple Cider Cookies
To get the best results with these apple cider cookies, there are a few important tips to keep in mind. First, the quality of the apple cider is crucial. Using fresh, farm-produced apple cider will provide the most robust flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can opt for store-bought cider. Just make sure you avoid using apple cider vinegar, as it will introduce an unwanted sour taste into the cookies.
Another important step is to properly measure your flour. The spoon-and-level method is recommended to ensure that you don’t end up with too much flour, which could result in dense cookies. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the dough. Overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies, so mix until just combined to keep the texture light and tender.
For an extra touch of flavor, consider browning the butter before using it in the recipe. This step adds a nutty, rich depth to the cookies that makes them even more decadent. However, if you’re pressed for time, the cookies will still turn out perfectly without this step.
Storing and Serving Apple Cider Cookies
Apple cider cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They’re perfect for serving at fall gatherings, alongside a cup of hot cider or tea, or as a sweet snack to enjoy after a day of apple picking. If you find yourself with extra cookies, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze them for up to a month.
To enjoy, let the cookies thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave for a few seconds. The soft and chewy texture will make them even more irresistible, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Customizing the Recipe
While this recipe is already perfectly balanced, it’s also highly customizable. For instance, if you prefer a stronger apple flavor, you can add more reduced apple cider to the dough or glaze. Alternatively, if you love a bit of crunch in your cookies, you could fold in chopped dried apples or even some nuts like walnuts or pecans. For a unique twist, try rolling the dough balls in cinnamon sugar before baking for a more donut-like effect.
If you’re looking for a slightly healthier version, you could substitute some of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. These small adjustments can make the cookies a bit lighter without compromising their delicious flavor.
Perfect Pairings for Apple Cider Cookies
Apple cider cookies are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages and other fall treats. A warm cup of apple cider, hot chocolate, or even a spiced chai latte makes for a cozy combination. If you’re serving these cookies at a gathering, consider offering them alongside other autumn-inspired treats like pumpkin bars, caramel apples, or a rich and creamy pumpkin soup. The flavors of these cookies will complement the richness of the other fall favorites, creating a delightful seasonal spread.
Why You’ll Love These Apple Cider Cookies
These apple cider cookies aren’t just delicious—they’re the embodiment of fall in cookie form. They combine the comforting flavors of apple cider with the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, creating a treat that’s perfect for any autumn occasion. The addition of the apple cider glaze takes them to the next level, giving each cookie a glossy finish that’s both beautiful and tasty.
Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, these cookies are sure to be a hit. They bring the essence of fall into your kitchen, filling your home with an irresistible aroma while offering a comforting, sweet treat that everyone will enjoy.
Conclusion
Incorporating apple cider into cookies adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a unique twist to a classic dessert. These apple cider cookies, with their rich spice profile and sweet glaze, are the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. They’re easy to make, adaptable to your preferences, and a true crowd-pleaser. So, the next time the weather turns chilly, grab a bottle of fresh apple cider, head to your kitchen, and bake a batch of these mouthwatering apple cider cookies. You’ll have a sweet treat that embodies the warmth and comfort of the autumn season in every bite.