Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Apple Cider Cookies are a delightful treat that capture the essence of autumn in every bite. These cookies combine the warm, comforting flavors of reduced apple cider and brown butter with cozy spices like apple pie spice or pumpkin spice, creating a soft, flavorful cookie that’s perfectly balanced between sweet and spiced. Whether you’re craving a seasonal snack or a unique dessert, Apple Cider Cookies offer a homemade charm that feels like a hug from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Apple Cider Cookies lies in their simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a vital role. From the deep, caramel notes of browned butter to the aromatic spices that give these cookies their unmistakable warmth, you’ll appreciate how these everyday ingredients come together to create something truly special.

• 2 cups apple cider: This is the star of the recipe, providing natural sweetness and apple flavor.
• 20 tablespoons unsalted butter: Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty depth to the cookies.
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cookies structure and softness.
• 2 teaspoons apple pie spice or pumpkin spice: Brings all those cozy fall flavors in one blend.
• 1 large egg (room temperature): Helps bind everything together and adds moisture.
• 1¼ cups light brown sugar: Adds moisture and caramel-like sweetness.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Contributes to the crispy edges and balances the softness.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cookies a gentle rise for a tender bite.
• Ground cinnamon (for topping): Adds a warm, aromatic touch when sprinkled on the finished cookies.

How to Make Apple Cider Cookies

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by pouring your apple cider into a saucepan and simmering it over medium heat. Your goal is to reduce this from 2 cups down to about ¼ cup, concentrating the sweetness and flavor. This step really sets the tone for your cookies, bringing out the bright yet mellow apple notes that make these treats unique.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

While the cider reduces, melt the unsalted butter over low heat until it turns a beautiful golden brown. You’ll notice a nutty aroma as the milk solids caramelize, which infuses the cookies with a richer taste. Once browned, let it cool for about 15 minutes to avoid cooking the egg later.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, apple pie or pumpkin spice, and a pinch of salt. Combining these dry ingredients now means when you add them to the wet mix, your spices and leavening will be evenly distributed, giving a balanced flavor and perfect texture throughout.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, mix your cooled browned butter with the light brown sugar and granulated sugar until silky and well incorporated. Then, add the egg, the reduced apple cider, and a splash of vanilla extract if you choose, stirring until everything is smooth. This wet mixture is where the magic begins to happen, creating an irresistible base with sweet, spiced notes.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into your wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix here to keep your cookies tender and soft rather than tough.

Step 6: Form the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop generous portions of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave a little space between each one as they will spread slightly but should maintain a thick, soft profile.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 375°F for 9 to 11 minutes. You’re looking for edges that are set with a slightly soft center – baking times can vary so keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

Step 8: Cool and Add Finishing Touches

Once baked, let the cookies cool just enough so they hold their shape, then roll them gently in ground cinnamon sugar for a perfect spicy-sweet finish. For an extra special treat, drizzle with a simple icing or glaze to complement those apple cider notes beautifully.

How to Serve Apple Cider Cookies

Garnishes

These cookies shine when garnished with a dusting of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze. Sprinkling crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch that contrasts the soft cookie beautifully.

Side Dishes

Apple Cider Cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced chai tea or a creamy latte. If you want something more indulgent, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the warm, cozy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a seasonal party or gift, stack these cookies tied with a rustic twine or place them in a decorative tin. You can also use them as a sweet treat accompanying brunch, or crumble them over a bowl of cinnamon-spiced yogurt or baked apples for a playful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Cider Cookies keep best in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and delicious for up to 4 days, making them a great grab-and-go option for busy mornings or afternoon snack cravings.

Freezing

These cookies freeze wonderfully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

If you want to revive a batch of saved Apple Cider Cookies, warm them for 10 to 15 seconds in the microwave or for a few minutes in a low oven. The warmth refreshes their soft, buttery texture and amplifies the upsweet notes of the apple cider reduction.

FAQs

Can I use canned apple cider for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned apple cider works just as well and is often more concentrated. Just make sure it is 100% apple cider without added sugars for the best flavor.

What’s the best substitute if I don’t have apple pie spice?

You can blend your own by mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. These simple spices mimic the cozy flavor profile of apple pie spice and work perfectly in the cookies.

Why do I need to reduce the apple cider?

Reducing the cider concentrates its natural sugars and apple flavor, preventing the cookies from becoming too wet or bland. This step intensifies the taste, making it distinctive and delicious.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

With a few substitutions like vegan butter and a flax egg instead of a chicken egg, you can definitely adapt this recipe for a vegan diet without losing the magic of those Apple Cider Cookies.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Be careful not to overbake, and store them in an airtight container. The reduction in cider and the brown butter also help keep them tender. Adding a bit of extra brown sugar or a touch of honey can assist in retaining moisture if needed.

Final Thoughts

There is something absolutely heartwarming about Apple Cider Cookies that makes you want to reach for one again and again. They’re the perfect blend of sweet, spiced, and subtle apple goodness, crafted from simple ingredients you likely already have. I can’t recommend trying this recipe enough, especially when you need a little cozy comfort in cookie form.

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