Welcome to the cozy world of baking, where warm spices and sweet apple cider come together to create one of the most delightful fall treats: Apple Cider Cookies.
Imagine stepping into a kitchen filled with the aroma of freshly baked cookies cinnamon and nutmeg swirling through the air bringing back memories of crisp autumn mornings and joyful family gatherings. These cookies aren’t just sweet treats; they’re little bites of autumn comfort.
Soft, chewy, and packed with rich apple flavor, these cookies get their depth from reduced apple cider and browned butter. Whether you’re baking for friends, hosting brunch, or simply craving a seasonal treat, this Apple Cider Cookies recipe will bring warmth and coziness to every moment.
So, roll up your sleeves and let’s bake something wonderful together. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple, everyday ingredients
- Perfect for cozy weekends or family brunches
- Wholesome flavor that feels like home
- A delightful twist on traditional cookies
- Fills your kitchen with the most heavenly aroma
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups apple cider – The star of the show; reduces to concentrate the apple flavor.
- 20 tablespoons unsalted butter – Browned for a nutty depth of flavor.
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides the perfect base for our cookies.
- 2 teaspoons apple pie spice or pumpkin spice – Adds warmth and complexity.
- 1 large egg (room temperature) – Binds everything together beautifully.
- 1¼ cup light brown sugar – For that rich, caramel flavor.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – Balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – For a gentle rise and soft texture.
- Ground cinnamon (for topping) – A classic finishing touch that beckons.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Reduce the Cider
Simmer the apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces to about ¼ cup. This concentrated syrup is what gives your cookies their signature apple flavor. Let it cool completely before adding to the dough.
2. Brown the Butter
Melt the butter over low heat until it turns golden and smells nutty. This step adds rich, toasty flavor. Allow it to cool for about 15 minutes before mixing.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, apple pie spice, and a pinch of salt. This ensures your spices and leavening are evenly distributed.
4. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the cooled browned butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg, reduced cider, and a splash of vanilla extract, and mix until silky and well-blended.
5. Bring It All Together
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. A few streaks of flour are okay this prevents overmixing and keeps your cookies soft.
6. Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving room for spreading.
7. Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 9–11 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft. They’ll firm up as they cool.
8. Cool & Decorate
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then roll them gently in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for that classic apple-cider-donut vibe. You can also drizzle them with icing for a pretty, festive finish.
Pro Tips for Success
- Measure flour using the spoon-and-level method for perfect texture.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if you prefer chewier cookies.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly before glazing to avoid melting the icing.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh for days.
Variations and Creative Twists
Want to make them your own? Try these delicious add-ins:
- Add chopped dried apples or raisins for fruity texture.
- Mix in walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Fold in white or dark chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence.
- Swirl a bit of cinnamon sugar through the dough for extra spice and color.
How to Store or Freeze
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
To freeze: place cookies in a single layer on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to three months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.
Serving Ideas
Apple Cider Cookies are perfect for:
- Pairing with a cup of coffee or hot tea on a crisp morning.
- Adding to your holiday cookie tray.
- Tucking into lunchboxes for a sweet surprise.
- Serving at autumn gatherings or bake sales everyone will ask for the recipe!
Apple Cider Cookies – FAQs
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes. Use a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. The rest of the recipe remains the same, though baking times may vary slightly.
How can I make my cookies more flavorful?
Use freshly ground spices and pure vanilla extract. Make sure the apple cider is reduced properly for a deeper apple flavor, and brown the butter until golden for a nutty richness.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes. The dough can be covered and refrigerated for up to 48 hours before baking. Let it rest at room temperature for a few minutes if it becomes too firm to scoop.
What if I do not have apple pie spice?
Make your own blend by mixing 1½ teaspoons cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon allspice. Pumpkin spice is also a good alternative.
How should I store or freeze the cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To freeze, place them in a single layer until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly before serving.
How can I make the cookies extra chewy?
Chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking and remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are set but the centers are still soft. They will finish setting as they cool.
For More Recipe Inspiration
If you’re looking for more delightful baking ideas, check out these recipes:
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Now is the perfect time to bake these Apple Cider Cookies and share the taste of fall with your loved ones. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest for later!
Apple Cider Cookies
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider Reduces to concentrate the apple flavor.
- 20 tablespoons unsalted butter Browned for a nutty depth of flavor.
- 1 large egg (room temperature) Binds everything together beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Optional for extra depth.
Dry Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Provides the perfect base for our cookies.
- 1.25 cups light brown sugar For that rich, caramel flavor.
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar Balances the sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons apple pie spice or pumpkin spice Adds warmth and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder For a gentle rise and soft texture.
- 1 pinch salt To enhance the cookie flavor.
Toppings
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon For topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until reduced to about ¼ cup. Allow it to cool before using.
- Melt the unsalted butter on low heat until it’s lightly browned. Cool the browned butter for about 15 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, apple pie spice, and a pinch of salt.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled browned butter and sugars until smooth. Add the large egg, reduced cider, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to over-mix.
Baking
- Using a cookie scoop, drop generous amounts of dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes.
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly before rolling them in a mixture of sugar and ground cinnamon.
Serving
- Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea.