Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Apple cider cookies are a delightful treat that brings the flavors of fall to your kitchen. This Apple Cider Cookies Recipe combines the comforting taste of apple cider with a soft, chewy cookie texture, making them perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just a sweet snack. With their unique flavor profile and delightful glaze, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cozy Flavors: The warm spices and sweet apple cider create an irresistible autumn flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, these cookies are accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch for gatherings or holiday parties, and watch them disappear in no time!
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even as part of a festive gift basket.
• Glazed Goodness: The apple cider glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness that makes these cookies stand out.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delicious cookies, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Saucepan: Perfect for reducing apple cider to enhance its flavor before adding it to the cookie dough.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly.

Ingredients

For the Apple Cider 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 the Cinnamon Sugar Coating & Glaze

• 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)

How to Make Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

1. Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan.
2. Heat over medium-high heat until it gently boils or simmers.
3. Continue cooking until it reduces down to ¼ cup (59 ml), about 15 – 20 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and pour into a bowl or measuring cup; set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare Brown Butter

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter on low heat until it starts foaming.
2. Stir frequently; once it smells nutty and fragrant with browned bits at the bottom, remove from heat.
3. Pour into a heat-safe bowl and let cool for about 15 minutes; then refrigerate for another 15 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, spices, and salt until well mixed.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the cooled browned butter with light brown sugar and granulated sugar until combined.
2. Add in the egg, egg yolk, reduced apple cider, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

1. Gradually stir dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.
2. Let dough rest while preheating oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 6: Scoop & Bake Cookies

1. Use a medium cookie scoop to place dough balls on the lined baking sheet about 3 inches apart.
2. Bake for 9 – 11 minutes or until edges are set but centers are slightly puffed.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

1. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar & Glaze

1. Whisk melted butter with remaining apple cider in one bowl; set aside.
2. In another bowl, mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon until well combined.

Step 9: Assemble Cookies

1. Brush each cookie’s top and sides with apple cider butter.
2. Immediately press into cinnamon sugar to coat all sides; transfer back to cooling rack.

Step 10: Drizzle Icing

1. Whisk powdered sugar with apple cider and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle over cooled cookies before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously cozy Apple Cider Cookies!

How to Serve Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Apple cider cookies are a delightful treat perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings, or holiday celebrations. These cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance their flavor and texture.

With a Warm Beverage

• Hot Apple Cider: Serve your cookies alongside a warm mug of spiced apple cider for a comforting experience.
• Pumpkin Spice Latte: The rich flavors of pumpkin spice blend beautifully with the sweetness of apple cider cookies.
• Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea complement the spices in the cookies, creating a perfect pairing.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Cheesecake Bites: Add creamy cheesecake bites to your platter for a rich contrast to the soft cookies.
• Mini Pies: Include mini apple or pumpkin pies for an inviting autumn dessert spread.
• Chocolate Truffles: The indulgent sweetness of chocolate truffles can elevate your dessert presentation.

For Gift Giving

• Cookie Jars: Pack the cookies in decorative jars as gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.
• Gift Baskets: Create gift baskets with cookies, warm beverages, and other treats for a thoughtful present.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Achieving the ultimate apple cider cookies involves some simple techniques that ensure they are soft, chewy, and full of flavor.

• Bold Cooling Time: Allowing the dough to rest helps enhance flavors and improves texture. Aim for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Bold Brown Butter: Use brown butter instead of regular butter for a nutty flavor that elevates your cookies.
• Bold Measuring Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cookies caused by packed flour.
• Bold Baking Time Monitoring: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; remove them when edges are set but centers are still soft for perfect chewiness.
• Bold Icing Thickness Adjustments: Adjust the icing thickness by varying powdered sugar amounts; thicker icing holds shape better while drizzling.
• Bold Storage Tips: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain softness longer.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Apple cider cookies can be complemented with various side dishes that highlight their delightful flavors. Here are some delicious options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an extra layer of indulgence.
3. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the apple cider cookies.
4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda that pair well with sweet treats for a savory-sweet combination.
5. Maple Syrup Dipping Sauce: A small bowl of maple syrup makes an excellent dip for those who enjoy extra sweetness.
6. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide crunch and enhance fall flavors, making them an ideal side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and even small errors can affect the outcome of your Apple Cider Cookies. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can lead to a dense cookie. Always ensure your butter is softened and your eggs are at room temperature for the best texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the brown butter to cool is essential. If added too hot, it can cook the eggs, resulting in an undesirable texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much after adding dry ingredients can lead to tough cookies. Stir until just combined for soft and chewy results.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Not preheating the oven properly can affect baking time. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking requires precision. Use measuring cups and spoons for dry and liquid ingredients to ensure consistency in your Apple Cider Cookies.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store cooled cookies in an airtight container.
• item They can be kept for up to 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

• item Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• item Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• item They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

• item Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• item Microwave: Warm individual cookies in the microwave on high for 10-15 seconds; watch closely to avoid overheating.
• item Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and warm cookies for about a minute on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Apple Cider Cookies Recipe unique?

This recipe captures the essence of fall with its soft, chewy texture and rich apple cider flavor, reminiscent of classic apple cider donuts.

How do I achieve the best flavor in my Apple Cider Cookies?

Using freshly pressed apple cider provides a more vibrant flavor compared to store-bought varieties. The spices also enhance the overall taste!

Can I customize this Apple Cider Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips for added texture and flavor variations that suit your taste.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies will stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for about one week.

Is there an alternative flour I can use for this recipe?

Yes! For gluten-free options, consider using almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum.

Conclusion

These Apple Cider Cookies are perfect for cozy fall gatherings or as a delightful treat anytime. With their soft texture and warm spices, they appeal to everyone’s taste buds. Feel free to customize them with your favorite additions like nuts or chocolate chips for even more deliciousness!

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