Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! This Apple Cider Cookies Recipe is a warm hug in cookie form. Imagine biting into a soft and chewy cookie that tastes just like those beloved apple cider donuts we all adore. These cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Once you bake up a batch, they’ll quickly become your go-to comfort treat!

These cookies are wonderfully versatile too. Whether you’re hosting friends with a cozy cup of tea or bringing a sweet surprise to a potluck, these apple cider cookies will surely impress everyone. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your baking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious flavor: The combination of apple cider and warm spices creates an irresistible autumnal taste.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even beginner bakers can whip these up with ease.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these soft, chewy treats that remind us all of fall festivities.
• Make-ahead option: The dough can be prepared in advance and chilled, making it perfect for last-minute baking sessions.
• Perfect for sharing: With 22 cookies in a batch, there’s plenty to go around for parties or cozy family nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these apple cider cookies is super simple with wholesome ingredients you’ll likely have on hand! Here’s everything you need:

• 2 cups (474 ml) apple cider
• 20 tablespoons (283 g) unsalted butter
• 2½ cups (300 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons apple pie spice or pumpkin spice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1¼ cup (250 g) light brown sugar
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (US), room temperature
• 1 large egg yolk (US), room temperature
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) apple cider (not reduced)
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon or spice blend
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 – 2 tablespoons (15 – 30 ml) apple cider (not reduced)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with some fun twists:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Incorporate dried fruit: Dried cranberries or raisins can add a nice chewy texture and complement the flavors beautifully.
• Experiment with spices: Swap out the apple pie spice for ginger or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Begin by pouring the apple cider into a small saucepan. Heat it over medium-high until it reaches a gentle boil. This step is crucial because reducing the cider intensifies its flavor, giving your cookies that rich taste reminiscent of fall. Cook until it reduces down to about ¼ cup, which should take around 15 – 20 minutes. Once done, let it cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In another saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat until it starts foaming. Stir frequently! This is where the magic happens—the butter will develop beautiful nutty aromas as it browns. Once you see some lightly toasted bits at the bottom, remove it from heat and pour into a heat-safe bowl. Let it cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes before transferring it to the fridge for another 15 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

While your butter cools, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, spices, and salt in another bowl. This blend ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices throughout your dough.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled browned butter with both sugars until well mixed. Then add in your egg, egg yolk, reduced apple cider, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth; this mixture forms the base of your cookie dough.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently stir in your dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix! I prefer adding half of each mixture at a time for better blending. Allow your dough to rest while preheating your oven to 375 F (190 C); this helps enhance texture.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Using a medium cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons), place rounded scoops of dough onto lined baking sheets spaced about three inches apart. Bake these beauties at 375 F for about 9 – 11 minutes until edges are set but centers remain slightly puffy—trust me; they’ll continue cooking as they cool!

Step 7: Cool Your Cookies

After baking, let your cookies cool on the sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to cooling racks. This resting period helps them firm up while retaining that delightful chewiness.

Step 8: Prepare Apple Cider Butter & Cinnamon Sugar

While waiting for cookies to cool completely, whisk together melted butter and fresh apple cider in one bowl. In another bowl mix granulated sugar with cinnamon—this adds an irresistible coating!

Step 9: Assemble Your Cookies

Now comes the fun part! Brush each warm cookie with the apple cider butter before rolling them in cinnamon sugar on both sides. Repeat this process until every cookie is coated; they’ll look so inviting!

Step 10: Drizzle with Icing

Finally, whisk together powdered sugar with more apple cider and vanilla extract until smooth—feel free to adjust consistency by adding more sugar if desired! Drizzle this icing over each cookie as finishing touches.

Enjoy these delightful treats fresh out of the oven or stored away for later snacking! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Baking is all about precision and a touch of love, so here are some tips to ensure your apple cider cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh apple cider – Opting for fresh cider rather than bottled can elevate the flavor of your cookies, giving them that authentic autumn taste.
• Chill the dough – Allowing the dough to rest not only enhances the flavors but also helps in achieving a better texture. Chilled dough spreads less while baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Don’t overmix – When combining the dry ingredients with wet, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so gentle folding is key!
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to get creative with spices! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can bring an exciting twist to your apple cider cookies.
• Store properly – Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage—just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper!

How to Serve Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

These delightful apple cider cookies are perfect for any occasion and can be dressed up or down depending on your mood. Here are some ideas on how to present and enjoy them!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze for added crunch and flavor.
• Apple slices: Serve alongside thin slices of apples tossed in a little lemon juice for a refreshing contrast.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of dairy-free whipped cream can add a creamy element that beautifully complements the cookie’s sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of apple cider for a cozy treat that embraces fall flavors.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream creates a deliciously contrasting texture and makes each bite even more indulgent.
• Pumpkin soup: Pairing with a hearty pumpkin soup offers a savory balance that rounds out your meal beautifully.
• Cheese platter: An assortment of cheeses, particularly sharp cheddar or creamy brie, provides a rich contrast that pairs wonderfully with the sweet notes of the cookies.

Enjoy baking and sharing these scrumptious apple cider cookies; they’re sure to become a beloved favorite in your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

These apple cider cookies are perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning for a cozy gathering or simply want to enjoy a sweet treat throughout the week, these cookies can be made ahead of time and stored with ease.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, consider placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze the cookie dough, scoop the balls onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen by placing them in an airtight container separated by layers of parchment paper. Use within 3 months for best flavor.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen baked cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• If reheating from the fridge, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about the Apple Cider Cookies Recipe:

Can I use store-bought apple cider for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s fresh and not overly processed for the best flavor.

How do I make these Apple Cider Cookies Recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure to check that your other ingredients, like baking powder and spices, are gluten-free as well!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my apple cider cookies?

Certainly! Feel free to fold in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips after mixing your wet and dry ingredients. It will add a delightful twist!

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges of your cookies should be set and lightly golden while the centers remain slightly puffed. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful apple cider cookies! They capture all the cozy flavors of fall and are sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them. Enjoy every bite as you create wonderful memories with loved ones. Happy baking!