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 one I cherish and love to share with friends and family. These cookies are soft, chewy, and infused with the warm flavors of apple cider, giving you that cozy autumn feeling with every bite. Whether you’re whipping them up for a busy weeknight dessert or bringing them to a family gathering, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

What makes this recipe special is not just the delicious taste but also how easy it is to make. You’ll find that these cookies bring everyone together, sparking smiles and sweet memories. Let’s dive into why this Apple Cider Cookies Recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Cozy: The warm spices and apple cider flavor create the perfect comfort food for chilly days.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, baking these cookies is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love these treats, making them great for kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual dessert night, these cookies fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough in advance so you can bake fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the lovely ingredients that come together to make these apple cider cookies so special! They’re all simple and wholesome, ensuring you can easily gather what you need right from your pantry.

For the Cookies

• 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

For Coating

• 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

For the Glaze

• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 – 2 tablespoons (15 – 30 ml) apple cider (not reduced)

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Apple Cider Cookies Recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative based on your mood or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: If you’re craving chocolate, add some semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to enjoy these cookies without worry.
• Change Up the Spices: Swap out apple pie spice for chai spice or even gingerbread seasoning for a unique twist on flavor.

How to Make Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by pouring your apple cider into a small saucepan. Heat it over medium-high heat until it gently boils. This step is crucial because reducing the cider concentrates its flavor, which enhances your cookies. Cook it until it reduces to about ¼ cup; this should take around 15-20 minutes. Once done, set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In another saucepan, melt 20 tablespoons of butter over low heat until it starts foaming. Keep whisking as it cooks; you want those beautiful brown bits at the bottom for rich flavor. This process gives your cookies an irresistible nutty aroma and taste! Once browned, transfer it to a heat-safe bowl and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine your flour, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, spices, and salt. Whisking these together ensures they are evenly distributed throughout your cookie dough.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In your mixing bowl with cooled brown butter, add both sugars and whisk until combined. Then mix in the egg, egg yolk, reduced apple cider, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture will create a wonderfully rich base for your cookies!

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Slowly stir in your dry ingredients into this wet mixture until just combined. Don’t overmix; we want our cookies soft and chewy! Let this dough rest while preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). It helps develop flavors even more!

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Using a medium cookie scoop or two tablespoons of dough per cookie ball, place them on lined baking sheets about three inches apart. Bake them for about 9-11 minutes until golden at the edges but still soft in the center.

Step 7: Cool Your Cookies

After baking, let those beautiful apple cider cookies cool on their sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps them set perfectly!

Step 8: Prepare Toppings

While they cool down, whisk together melted butter with additional apple cider in one bowl and mix granulated sugar with cinnamon in another. These will give your cookies that extra layer of flavor.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cookies

Now comes the fun part! Brush each cookie’s top and sides with that delicious apple cider butter mixture before rolling them into cinnamon sugar. Flip them over so both sides are coated beautifully!

Step 10: Finish with Glaze

For the final touch, whisk powdered sugar with vanilla extract and more apple cider until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over each cookie for an irresistible finish!

Enjoy every bite of these cozy Apple Cider Cookies! They’re sure to become a new favorite in no time.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Baking these delightful apple cider cookies is a breeze, and with a few handy tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh apple cider: Fresh apple cider enhances the flavor of your cookies and provides that authentic fall taste. Avoid using bottled varieties that may contain preservatives or added sugars.
• Chill the dough: Allowing the cookie dough to rest for 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together and results in a chewier texture. It also makes the dough easier to scoop and shape.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies! They should be slightly puffy in the center when you take them out. They will continue to firm up as they cool, ensuring a soft and chewy bite.
• Mix your spices: If you love a little extra warmth, consider blending your spices! Combining apple pie spice with a pinch of nutmeg can add depth to the flavor profile of your cookies.
• Drizzle generously with glaze: The icing not only adds sweetness but also gives your cookies a beautiful finish. Don’t be shy—let that glaze flow for a delightful presentation!

How to Serve Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Presenting these apple cider cookies is all about embracing their cozy vibe. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, there are plenty of ways to make them shine!

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sticks: Place a cinnamon stick alongside each cookie on a serving platter for an aromatic touch that hints at their delicious flavor.
• Dried apple slices: Garnish your cookie plate with thinly sliced dried apples for an extra pop of color and a nod to their main ingredient.

Side Dishes

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of pumpkin spice latte for an indulgent afternoon treat that balances sweetness with spiced richness.
• Hot Apple Cider: Complement the flavors of your cookies by serving them alongside warm apple cider topped with cinnamon, enhancing the cozy experience.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: For an extra special dessert, serve your cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm spices of the cookie.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can be an unexpected yet delightful pairing. Consider including brie or gouda for their creamy textures that balance out the sweetness of the cookies.

Enjoy baking and sharing these scrumptious apple cider cookies! They’re sure to bring smiles and warmth to any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

These apple cider cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, place them in the fridge where they will last about a week.
• If you’d like to maintain their chewy texture, layer parchment paper between layers of cookies.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until hard, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Frozen cookies can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful apple cider cookies recipe!

Can I use any type of apple cider for this Apple Cider Cookies Recipe?

Yes! You can use either fresh apple cider or store-bought apple cider. Just ensure it’s not reduced or flavored for the best results.

How do I store leftovers from the Apple Cider Cookies Recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge or freeze them.

Can I substitute the butter in this Apple Cider Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

What’s the best way to enhance the flavor of these cookies?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even some chopped dried apples for extra texture and flavor!

Are these cookies suitable for kids?

Yes! These apple cider cookies are kid-friendly and make a delightful treat for all ages.

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 around your table. Enjoy sharing these treats with family and friends—there’s nothing quite like homemade goodness. Happy baking!