Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Apple cider cookies are a delightful treat that combine the warm flavors of fall with the comforting texture of a cookie. This Apple Cider Cookies Recipe transforms the classic apple cider donut into soft, chewy cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or just craving a sweet snack, these cookies bring a taste of autumn to your table. The unique blend of spices and the sugary coating make them irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of apple cider combined with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for holidays, gatherings, or simply as a cozy treat at home.
• Chewy Texture: The unique baking method ensures each cookie is soft and chewy, reminiscent of your favorite pastries.
• Fun to Decorate: Coating them in cinnamon sugar and drizzling with glaze makes baking even more enjoyable!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make baking a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious apple cider cookies.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently, ensuring even mixing for better texture.
• Cookie scoop: Helps portion dough consistently, resulting in evenly sized cookies that bake uniformly.
• Baking sheet: A good quality sheet supports even heat distribution, which is crucial for achieving perfect cookies.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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, room temperature
– 1 large egg yolk, 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)

How to Make Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan. Heat it over medium-high until it reaches a gentle boil or simmer. Continue cooking until it reduces down to about ¼ cup (59 ml), which takes approximately 15 – 20 minutes. Once reduced, remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In another saucepan or pot, melt the butter on low heat until it begins to foam. Stir frequently until it smells nutty and fragrant. The butter will have brown bits floating at the bottom when done. Pour into a heat-safe bowl and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes at room temperature before chilling in the fridge for another 15 minutes.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, spices, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled browned butter with both sugars until smooth. Then add in the egg, egg yolk, reduced apple cider, and vanilla extract; whisk until everything is well mixed.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually stir in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Allow the dough to rest while preheating your oven to 375 F (190 C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 6: Scoop Cookie Dough

Using a medium cookie scoop (about two tablespoons), place dough balls onto the lined baking sheet approximately three inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for about 9 -11 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain slightly puffy.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare Toppings

While cooling, whisk together melted butter and apple cider in one bowl. In another bowl, combine granulated sugar with ground cinnamon.

Step 9: Assemble Cookies

Brush one side of each cookie with apple cider butter then immediately press into cinnamon sugar. Flip over so that both sides are coated nicely before placing back onto cooling rack.

Step 10: Drizzle with Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar with remaining apple cider and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies before serving! Enjoy your delightful Apple Cider Cookies!

How to Serve Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Apple cider cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to serve them at a gathering or enjoy them solo with your favorite drink, there’s no wrong way to indulge.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee: The rich, bold flavor of coffee pairs perfectly with the sweet notes of apple cider cookies.
• Tea: A warm cup of chai or spiced tea complements the spices in the cookies beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: For a cozy touch, serve these cookies alongside a rich mug of hot chocolate.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment: Include apple cider cookies with other seasonal favorites like pumpkin spice and chocolate chip for a festive spread.
• Cheese Board: Pair with mild cheeses for an interesting contrast of flavors.

At Fall Gatherings

• Harvest Parties: Present these cookies as part of your autumn celebration to delight guests of all ages.
• Thanksgiving Dessert Table: They make an excellent addition to traditional dessert offerings.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Creating the perfect apple cider cookies is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Bold Flavor Focus: Use fresh apple cider for the most intense flavor. The quality of your ingredients makes a significant difference.
• Bold Butter Technique: Brown your butter properly to enhance the nutty flavor; don’t rush this step!
• Bold Dough Resting: Allowing the dough to rest helps develop flavors and achieve a better texture, so be patient before baking.
• Bold Oven Preheating: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This guarantees even cooking and the right rise.
• Bold Cooling Time: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring them. This helps them set properly for that perfect chewiness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

These apple cider cookies can be complemented with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options.

1. Apple Slices: Fresh, crisp apple slices provide a refreshing contrast and enhance the apple flavor in the cookies.
2. Caramel Dip: A rich caramel dip adds sweetness and a fun element for dipping alongside the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter: A mix of mild cheeses balances the sweetness of the cookies and adds an elegant touch.
4. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts offer crunch and warmth, making them a perfect companion for these soft cookies.
5. Pumpkin Soup: A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup creates a warm, comforting meal that pairs well with sweet treats like these cookies.
6. Cinnamon Ice Cream: A scoop of cinnamon ice cream provides a creamy texture that complements the cookie’s flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your apple cider cookies, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the cooling of butter: Allowing the butter to cool is essential for the right texture. If used too hot, it can melt other ingredients and affect cookie structure.
• Using cold eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature. Cold eggs can cause the dough to firm up and prevent even mixing.
• Not measuring flour correctly: When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup instead of scooping directly. This prevents excess flour, leading to dense cookies.
• Baking on a hot sheet: Always use a cool baking sheet to prevent spreading. If you reuse a hot sheet, the cookies will spread too much during baking.
• Skipping the resting time: Letting the dough rest allows flavors to develop and improves texture. Don’t rush this step for better results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to avoid sticking.

Freezing Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time in 10-15 second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as they may become dry.
• Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat and add cookies. Cover with a lid for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Apple Cider Cookies Recipe unique?

This recipe combines soft and chewy textures with apple cider flavor, reminiscent of fall treats like apple cider donuts, making it perfect for cozy gatherings.

Can I adjust the spices in the Apple Cider Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! You can increase or decrease the spice amounts based on your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different spice blends as well.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges should be set while the centers remain slightly puffy. They will continue to cook on the tray after removing from the oven.

Can I use whole wheat flour in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Just keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them if you prefer longer storage.

Conclusion

These apple cider cookies are not just delicious; they capture the essence of fall in every bite! With their soft texture and sweet glaze, they are perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize these cookies by adding nuts or swapping spices according to your taste preferences!

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