Why Make This Recipe
Apple cider cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the flavors of fall. They are soft, chewy, and bursting with the warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. These cookies are not just tasty; they also bring a sense of comfort and coziness, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Moreover, making apple cider cookies is a fun and simple process. You can enjoy the pleasure of baking while filling your home with a wonderful aroma. Whether you want to treat yourself or impress guests, this recipe is a great choice.
Equipment Needed for Apple Cider Cookies
To get started with your apple cider cookies, gather the following equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cookie scoop
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
What You Need to Make Apple Cider Cookies
To create these delicious cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups apple cider
- 20 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons apple pie spice or pumpkin spice
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1¼ cup light brown sugar
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Ground cinnamon (for topping)
How to Cook Apple Cider Cookies Step by Step
Begin by reducing the apple cider to concentrate its flavor. To do this, pour the cider into a medium-sized saucepan and place it over medium heat. Allow it to simmer until it reduces down to about ¼ cup. This will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Once reduced, set it aside to cool.
Next, focus on the butter. In another saucepan, melt the unsalted butter on low heat. Keep a close eye on it, letting it cook until it becomes lightly browned and develops a nutty aroma. This browning process usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once browned, remove the butter from heat and let it cool for about 15 minutes.
While the butter is cooling, you can mix the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, apple pie spice (or pumpkin spice), and a pinch of salt until well combined. This ensures that your spices are evenly distributed throughout the cookies.
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter and the sugars—both light brown sugar and granulated sugar. Mix them together until they form a smooth, creamy mixture. Then, add the room temperature egg and the reduced apple cider. Optionally, you can also add a splash of vanilla extract for added flavor. Blend these ingredients together until well combined.
After that, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently using a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of the cookies.
Now it’s time to form the cookies. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and drop it onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still appear soft. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
While the cookies are still warm, you can roll them in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor. If you want to add a little more sweetness, consider drizzling a simple icing on top after they have cooled completely.
How to Serve Apple Cider Cookies
Apple cider cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be paired with various beverages to enhance the experience. Serve them warm or at room temperature for the best taste.
Consider serving them with a glass of cold apple cider, warm spiced tea, or even a cup of coffee. You can create a cozy atmosphere by enjoying these cookies as a tasty snack after a hearty meal or alongside your favorite fall treats.
What to Serve with Apple Cider Cookies
When it comes to serving options, there are endless possibilities. For a complete autumn-themed dessert table, consider pairing the cookies with pumpkin pie or pecan pie.
You can also serve apple cider cookies alongside warm apple crisp or spiced nuts for a delightful mix of flavors. If you’re hosting a gathering, set up a warm beverage bar with spiced cider, hot chocolate, or flavored coffee to complement your cookie spread perfectly.
How to Store Apple Cider Cookies
To keep your freshly baked apple cider cookies soft and chewy, store them in an airtight container. This will help retain their moisture and flavor.
If you plan to keep them for longer than a week, consider freezing them. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
Tips to Make Apple Cider Cookies
For the best results, ensure your butter is properly browned without burning. The nuttiness from browning enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
Using fresh apple cider will yield the best taste. Look for cider made from real apples and avoid any that contain additives. Additionally, measure your flour correctly to prevent overly dense cookies—scoop it into your measuring cup with a spoon and level it off instead of scooping the cup directly into the flour bag.
You can experiment with mixing in additional ingredients like chopped nuts, caramel bits, or even raisins for added texture and flavor.
Variation
If you’d like to switch things up, consider adding a touch of maple syrup to the dough for a different flavor profile. You can also substitute the apple pie spice for chai spice for a spicy twist on the classic cookie.
For a gluten-free version, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper structure.
Best Time to Make Apple Cider Cookies
Apple cider cookies are ideal for autumn, especially around holidays like Thanksgiving, Halloween, or simply during cozy gatherings. However, their delightful flavor means you can enjoy them any time you crave a warm, spiced cookie.
If you have leftover cider after apple picking, making these cookies is a wonderful way to use it up. You can even make them for special events like potlucks or holiday parties for a festive touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the dough. This can lead to tough cookies, so mix just until combined. Additionally, make sure to cool the browned butter adequately; if it’s too warm, it can cook the egg in your wet mixture and affect the texture.
Not allowing the cookies to cool slightly before rolling them in cinnamon sugar can lead to the sugar dissolving rather than sticking. Finally, ensure you properly reduce the cider; insufficient reduction may result in a watery dough that doesn’t hold shape.
Nutritional Notes
Each cookie contains a mix of carbohydrates and fats, primarily from the sugars and butter, providing energy. The apple cider adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor, while spices like cinnamon may offer health benefits, such as antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory effects.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought apple cider?
Yes, store-bought apple cider works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s pure cider without added sugars or preservatives.
How can I make the cookies softer?
To make your cookies softer, avoid overbaking them. Take them out when the edges are set and the centers still look a bit soft.
Can I freeze apple cider cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Just wrap each one individually and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Conclusion
Baking apple cider cookies is an enjoyable way to celebrate fall flavors. From the cozy aroma wafting through your kitchen to the warm, spiced cookies cooling on the counter, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served with a warm beverage or enjoyed as a standalone snack, these cookies are delightful and comforting.
With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a batch of delicious cookies that capture the essence of autumn. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family or savoring a few all on your own! Happy baking!
