Apple cider cookies offer a cozy, warm taste of autumn with each delightful bite. Their soft texture and delightful spices make them a perfect treat for gatherings or a simple indulgence at home. As you bake these cookies, the intoxicating aroma of apples and spices fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to enjoy a warm, flavorful snack.
Why We Love This Apple Cider Cookies
Apple cider cookies stand out for several reasons. First, they combine the beloved flavors of fall—like apples and cinnamon—into a delicious, chewy cookie. Every bite reminds you of crisp autumn days, making them a seasonal favorite. Additionally, these cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort while delivering great flavor. Their soft and chewy texture contrasts perfectly with a light dusting of sugar on top, creating an irresistible treat. They also store well, allowing you to enjoy the taste of autumn long after the season ends. If you love baking and experimenting, these cookies allow for creative variations that cater to different tastes. You can easily share them at gatherings, making them a welcomed addition to any dessert table.
Ingredients for Apple Cider Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup apple cider (not concentrated)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar for rolling (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
- In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, apple cider, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir until everything comes together. Avoid overmixing.
- If you like, add in ground ginger for an extra kick of spice.
- Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- If you prefer to roll your cookies, take each dough ball and roll it in granulated sugar before placing it on the baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Remove them from the oven, allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Apple Cider Cookies
Once your apple cider cookies are baked to perfection, it’s time to think about serving them. These cookies shine when served warm, straight from the oven, but they are also delightful at room temperature. Consider pairing them with a cup of warm apple cider or a comforting herbal tea. For an extra touch, you might spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting on top or simply dust them with powdered sugar for a classic look. These cookies can be stacked on a decorative platter, bringing a cheerful touch to your dessert table. You can also individually wrap them in clear plastic to create charming gift bags for friends and family. For gatherings, simply place a few cookies in small bowls – they make a great appetizer at parties. You can even crumble them over vanilla ice cream for an exciting dessert twist. The versatility of apple cider cookies makes them an all-around crowd-pleaser!
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Cookies
To make the most out of your apple cider cookies, consider these expert tips. First, use fresh apple cider for the best flavor; avoid concentrate. If your local store offers different cider brands, choose one that tastes delicious on its own. Second, be mindful of measuring your flour; too much flour makes cookies dry. Use a spoon to fluff your flour and spoon it into your measuring cup, leveling it off with a knife for accuracy. Third, don’t skip refrigerating your dough if it seems too soft; chilling it for 30 minutes will help your cookies hold their shape better during baking. When baking multiple batches, keep an eye on your cookies, as ovens can have hot spots. Rotate your baking sheet halfway through to ensure even cooking. Finally, experiment with spices! If you love ginger or allspice, feel free to adjust the spices to suit your palate. This little customization can elevate the flavor of your cookies.
How to Store Apple Cider Cookies
Properly storing your apple cider cookies helps retain their freshness and delightful flavor. Once cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container to keep them soft. You can layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store your container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. These cookies can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm. This way, you can enjoy the comforting taste of apple cider cookies whenever you crave them.
Variations of Apple Cider Cookies
Get creative with your apple cider cookies by trying out different variations. For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough. This enhances the texture and adds a pleasing crunch. If you enjoy dried fruit, mix in raisins or chopped dried apples to enhance the apple flavor in your cookies. For those who prefer a spiced version, consider adding a pinch of cardamom or cloves for additional warmth. You can also try drizzling a simple icing made from powdered sugar and water over the cooled cookies for a sweet finish. If you want to make these cookies even more special, dip one half of the cookie in melted caramel or chocolate. This not only adds depth to the flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation. Lastly, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend and adjust the liquid as needed. The possibilities are endless, letting you tailor this recipe to suit your taste!
FAQ about Apple Cider Cookies
You might have some questions about apple cider cookies, and that’s perfectly normal. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you out.
Can I make apple cider cookies vegan? Yes, you can make a vegan version by using a plant-based butter substitute and aquafaba or a flax egg in place of the regular egg.
How do you know when the apple cider cookies are done? The cookies should be golden around the edges but still appear soft in the center when they’re done baking. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I use store-bought apple cider? Absolutely! Store-bought cider works perfectly, but ensure it is the non-concentrated version for the best flavor.
By following these insights and tips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying these delicious apple cider cookies and sharing them with everyone around you!
Apple Cider Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Sifted for best results
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar Packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar Plus additional for rolling
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup apple cider (not concentrated) Fresh is best
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional) For additional spice
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
- In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, apple cider, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir until everything comes together. Avoid overmixing.
- If you like, add in ground ginger for an extra kick of spice.
Baking
- Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- If you prefer to roll your cookies, take each dough ball and roll it in granulated sugar before placing it on the baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Remove them from the oven, allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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