Apple Cider Cookies

Apple cider cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the flavors of fall. These cookies are not only soft and chewy but also coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture, making them ideal for various occasions like holiday gatherings or cozy family nights. With their unique apple cider base, these cookies stand out with a warm, comforting flavor that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Spiced: The combination of ground cinnamon and cloves gives these cookies a warm, inviting flavor profile that’s perfect for any season.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these treats with confidence.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for dessert tables, snack time, or as a special gift for friends and family.
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: This delightful finish adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture that elevates the cookie experience.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or dried fruits to tailor them to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: This tool ensures your butter and sugars are creamed together perfectly, leading to fluffy cookies.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Using proper measuring cups helps achieve consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Apple cider cookies are perfectly spiced and sweet. They are soft, chewy and coated in cinnamon sugar too!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup reduced apple cider (start with 1 cup spiced apple cider)
– 2 cups 250 g all purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Generous pinch of ground cloves or allspice
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup 113 g unsalted butter, room temperature
– ½ cup 100 g light brown sugar
– ¼ cup 50 g granulated sugar
– 1 large egg (room temperature)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup 100 g granulated sugar (for coating)
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
– ½ cup confectioners’ sugar (for glaze)
– 1 Tablespoon reduced cider (for glaze)

How to Make Apple Cider Cookies

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Begin by placing the apple cider in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until it reduces to about a quarter cup, which should take around 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Once reduced, set aside in a measuring cup to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of your stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in one large egg, vanilla extract, and three tablespoons of the reduced apple cider. Mix everything well, scraping down the sides of the bowl if needed.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Chill Dough

Cover your mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step helps improve texture.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

As you wait for your dough to chill, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining granulated sugar and additional ground cinnamon.

Step 8: Shape Cookies

Using a medium cookie scoop, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them on your lined baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced about two inches apart.

Step 9: Bake

Bake your cookies at 350°F for about ten minutes or until you notice that edges have set while centers remain soft. Cool on the pan for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Drizzle with Glaze

For an extra touch, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar with one tablespoon of remaining reduced apple cider. Drizzle this glaze over cooled cookies before serving.

Enjoy these delicious Apple Cider Cookies at any gathering or as a cozy treat at home!

How to Serve Apple Cider Cookies

Apple cider cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect for gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or as a sweet surprise for loved ones. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee for a delicious breakfast or afternoon snack.
• Tea: A warm cup of tea complements the spiced flavors of the cookies perfectly, making for a comforting treat.
• Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a rich hot chocolate alongside your cookies for a sweet and satisfying dessert.

As Dessert Platters

• Cookie Platter: Arrange apple cider cookies on a dessert platter with other assorted cookies to impress guests at any gathering.
• With Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an irresistible dessert.

At Seasonal Gatherings

• Fall Festivities: These cookies are ideal for autumn gatherings, such as Halloween parties or Thanksgiving celebrations.
• Potlucks: Bring apple cider cookies to potlucks as they are easy to transport and loved by many.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Cookies

Making the best apple cider cookies requires attention to detail and a few simple techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps maintain its shape while baking, resulting in soft and chewy cookies.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right amounts of each ingredient, which greatly affects the final texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mixing just until combined prevents tough cookies. Overmixing activates gluten in the flour.
• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh ground spices enhance flavor significantly. Consider using freshly ground cinnamon and cloves for more depth.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be set at the edges but slightly soft in the center when taken out.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Cookies

Pairing side dishes with apple cider cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as brie or cheddar, adds savory contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with apples and pears echoes the apple cider flavor while providing freshness.
3. Pumpkin Spice Muffins: These muffins bring seasonal warmth that pairs well with the spiced apple flavor of the cookies.
4. Granola Parfait: Layer granola, yogurt, and sliced fruits for a wholesome side that balances sweetness with crunch.
5. Caramel Dipping Sauce: Serve warm caramel sauce on the side for dipping, enhancing the richness of your cookie experience.
6. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with chewy cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Cider Cookies, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Boldly skip chilling the dough – Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and keeps cookies from spreading too much. Always remember to chill for at least 30 minutes.
• Boldly neglect measuring accurately – Using incorrect measurements can lead to dry or overly wet cookies. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Boldly overlook ingredient temperature – Room temperature ingredients combine more easily, resulting in a better texture. Let butter and egg sit out before starting.
• Boldly rush baking time – Taking cookies out too early can leave them undercooked and gooey. Keep an eye on them and bake until edges are set.
• Boldly skip the glaze – The glaze adds a delightful sweetness that enhances the flavor of your cookies. Don’t skip it; it’s worth the extra step.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to one week.

Freezing Apple Cider Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to three months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Cider Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes to warm through.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Cover with a lid on low heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Cookies.

How do I make my Apple Cider Cookies chewy?

To achieve a chewy texture, ensure you don’t overmix the dough and consider adding an extra egg yolk.

Can I use fresh apple cider instead of reduced cider?

Yes! Just reduce it first as directed in the recipe to concentrate the flavors.

How long can I store Apple Cider Cookies?

You can store them in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze them for up to three months.

What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

You can use coconut oil or plant-based butter alternatives if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Apple Cider Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their soft, chewy texture combined with warm spices makes them perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize these cookies by adding mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors!