Apple Cider Cookies

Apple Cider Cookies: The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a crisp autumn afternoon, nestled by a crackling fireplace. These aren’t your average oatmeal raisin cookies; oh no, these are something truly special. I’ve perfected this recipe over years, drawing inspiration from both my grandmother’s old handwritten recipe book and the vibrant flavors of New England fall. My family has been making variations of this recipe for generations, a tradition passed down through countless Thanksgiving gatherings and cozy winter evenings.

The history of apple cider cookies is deeply rooted in the harvest season, a time when apples were abundant and the sweet, tart juice was readily available. Early versions likely focused on simple ingredients, emphasizing the natural sweetness of the apples and the warming spices. But this recipe takes those humble beginnings and elevates them to a whole new level of deliciousness.

What makes these Apple Cider Cookies so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, of course! The tender, chewy cookie base is infused with the warm, comforting notes of apple cider, complemented by the subtle spice of cinnamon and nutmeg. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the soft cookie and the occasional burst of juicy apple pieces. And let’s not forget the convenience – these cookies are relatively easy to make, perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend baking project. They also freeze beautifully, making them ideal for holiday gifting or enjoying throughout the season.

So, gather your ingredients and prepare to be amazed. This recipe for Apple Cider Cookies is more than just a recipe; it’s a journey through the flavors of autumn and a celebration of time-honored traditions. Let’s get baking!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 cups chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• Optional: ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
• Optional: ¼ cup brown sugar for sprinkling on top

Preparing the Dry Ingredients:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour two large baking sheets, or line them with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined – you don’t want any pockets of spice hiding in the flour. I like to sift the dry ingredients for extra fluffiness, but it’s not strictly necessary.

Creaming the Butter and Sugar:

3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Creaming means beating the butter and sugar together until they are light and fluffy. This is crucial for a tender cookie! It usually takes about 3-5 minutes on medium-high speed. You’ll notice the mixture lighten in color and become noticeably smoother.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated evenly. I often use a spatula for this step.

Adding the Wet Ingredients:

5. Gradually add the applesauce and apple cider to the creamed butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix at this stage; we want to avoid developing the gluten in the flour too much, which can lead to tough cookies.
6. Now, gently fold in the chopped apples and your choice of nuts (if using). I like to use a large spoon or spatula for this step to avoid crushing the apples too much. If you’re adding dried cranberries or raisins, add them now as well.

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients:

7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Again, resist the urge to overmix! A few lumps are okay; overmixing will result in tough cookies. I usually mix until I can no longer see any dry flour.
8. Important Note: The dough will be quite thick. This is normal for these cookies. If it seems too dry, you can add a tablespoon or two of apple cider, but start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Baking the Cookies:

9. Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. They will spread slightly as they bake.
10. If desired, sprinkle the tops of the cookies with a little extra brown sugar before baking. This adds a nice touch of sweetness and a slightly crunchy topping.
11. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them. Start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
12. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy.

Cooling and Serving:

14. Once the cookies are completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’re best enjoyed within a few days for optimal freshness and texture. However, I find they still taste great after a week, stored properly.
15. Enjoy your warm, delicious, and wonderfully spiced Apple Cider Cookies! They’re perfect with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of apple cider.

16. Tips for Success:

    • Use good quality apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are excellent choices.
    • Don’t overmix the dough. Overmixing will result in tough cookies.
    • Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
    • Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my recipe for the ultimate Apple Cider Cookies! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, the flavor combination is simply divine. The warm, comforting notes of apple cider perfectly complement the buttery sweetness of the cookies, creating a truly irresistible treat. The subtle spice blend adds a delightful complexity that elevates these cookies above the ordinary. Second, these cookies are incredibly easy to make. Even beginner bakers will find the instructions straightforward and achievable, resulting in a delicious batch of cookies without any fuss. And finally, these Apple Cider Cookies are incredibly versatile – perfect for any occasion!

I’ve personally enjoyed them as an afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of hot tea, as a delightful addition to a holiday cookie platter, and even as a special treat for unexpected guests. They’re equally delicious warm from the oven or enjoyed at room temperature, making them a convenient and adaptable dessert option.

Serving Suggestions & Variations:

To enhance your Apple Cider Cookies experience even further, consider these serving suggestions and variations:

• For an extra touch of elegance: Dust the finished cookies with powdered sugar or a light sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
• For a richer flavor: Use brown butter instead of regular butter in the recipe. The nutty notes of brown butter beautifully complement the apple cider.
• For a festive twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cookie dough for added texture and flavor. A sprinkle of chopped crystallized ginger would also be a delicious addition.
• For a fun presentation: Arrange the cookies on a festive platter with other holiday treats, or package them individually in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a thoughtful gift.
• For a boozy upgrade (for adults only!): Add a tablespoon or two of apple cider liqueur to the dough for an extra kick of apple cider flavor. Just be sure to adjust baking time accordingly.
• For a healthier option: Substitute some of the butter with applesauce or mashed banana to reduce the fat content. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly.

The possibilities are truly endless! Feel free to experiment with different additions and variations to create your own signature Apple Cider Cookies.

Share Your Baking Journey!

I would love to hear about your experience making these Apple Cider Cookies. Did you try any of the variations? What were your favorite additions? Share your photos and feedback on social media using #AppleCiderCookies – I can’t wait to see your creations! Don’t forget to rate the recipe below and let other bakers know what you thought. Your feedback helps me improve and inspires others to try this delicious recipe.

Baking should be fun and rewarding, and these Apple Cider Cookies are the perfect recipe to showcase that. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible treats. You won’t regret it! Happy baking!

Don’t forget to share your Apple Cider Cookie creations with us!