Apple Cider Cookies

These apple cider cookies capture the cozy flavors of autumn with a tender crumb and a spiced sugar coating. The reduction of apple cider infuses the dough with a natural sweetness and depth, while the apple pie spice enhances that seasonal warmth. The glaze adds the perfect finishing touch of gentle sweetness and a hint of cider, making these cookies a delightful treat for any fall gathering.

I first tried these cookies on a chilly afternoon and was amazed how the cider reduction made such a difference. Ever since, they have been my fall favorite for sharing with friends and family around the kitchen table.

Ingredients

• Apple cider: Cook down for 20 minutes to concentrate flavor and sweetness
• Unsalted butter: Provides richness and a tender crumb use room temperature for easy creaming
• Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of molasses packed for consistent sweetness
• Large egg: Helps bind ingredients and adds richness
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm aromatic notes
• All-purpose flour: Gives structure choose a good quality brand for the softest texture
• Apple pie spice: A warming blend of cinnamon nutmeg and cloves that defines the seasonal taste
• Baking soda: Creates lift and spread for a light cookie
• Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor
• Granulated sugar: For the coating and adding crunch use fine granulated for even coating
• Confectioners sugar: For the glaze sift to avoid lumps for a smooth finish

Instructions

Simmer the Apple Cider:

In a small saucepan over medium heat cook the apple cider for about 20 minutes stirring frequently until it reduces to approximately ¼ cup. This concentration intensifies the apple flavor and natural sweetness. Set aside to cool completely

Cream the Butter and Sugar:

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment beat the room temperature butter and packed light brown sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air and ensuring tender cookies

Incorporate Wet Ingredients:

Add the egg vanilla extract and the cooled reduced apple cider to the butter mixture. Mix on medium speed until all ingredients are fully combined

Mix Dry Ingredients Separately:

In a large bowl whisk together the all-purpose flour apple pie spice baking soda and kosher salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening and spices

Combine Wet and Dry:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients mixing gently until just combined. Avoid over mixing to keep cookies tender

Prepare for Baking:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking

Mix the Coating:

In a small bowl whisk together the granulated sugar and apple pie spice. This mixture will give the cookies a sweet spicy exterior

Form and Coat Cookies:

Use a two tablespoon cookie scoop or spoon to portion the dough into balls. Roll each ball completely in the spiced sugar mixture ensuring even coverage for a crunchy coating

Arrange on Baking Sheets:

Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets spaced about two inches apart. This spacing allows the cookies to spread evenly during baking

Bake Cookies:

Bake in the preheated oven for eight to ten minutes or until the edges are set and lightly browned. The centers will remain soft which provides a lovely chewy texture

Cool Cookies:

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for five minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents breaking and helps them set

Prepare the Glaze:

While cookies cool whisk the confectioners sugar with two to three tablespoons of apple cider until smooth. Adjust the apple cider to your desired glaze consistency from thick to drizzling

Glaze and Serve:

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies using a spoon or piping bag. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving to enjoy the full flavor and texture

The apple pie spice blend is a personal favorite because it instantly transports me to crisp autumn days spent baking with family. One memorable moment was sharing a fresh batch with my grandparents while sipping warm cider on a brisk afternoon. It really brought everyone together.

Storage Tips

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain softness. Place parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. For longer storage freeze fully cooled cookies in a sealed freezer bag up to three months and thaw at room temperature before glazing or serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Light brown sugar can be swapped for coconut sugar for a subtle caramel twist and a refined sugar alternative. If you prefer a gluten-free version substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. For a non-dairy approach use vegan butter at room temperature in place of unsalted butter.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a mug of hot apple cider or spiced tea for a harmonious pairing. These cookies also complement a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert. Sprinkle with chopped nuts like pecans for added texture and fall flavor when serving at parties.

These apple cider cookies are a true celebration of fall flavors that are as comforting as they are delicious.

FAQs about Recipes

→ How is the apple cider used to enhance the flavor?

Apple cider is simmered to reduce its volume, concentrating its flavors before being incorporated into the dough, providing a natural sweetness and subtle tartness.

→ What role does apple pie spice play in this treat?

Apple pie spice adds warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices, complementing the apple cider for a cozy, autumnal profile.

→ How should the cookies be baked for best texture?

Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until edges are set and golden, ensuring a crisp exterior with a soft, tender middle.

→ What is the purpose of rolling the dough in sugar and spice?

Coating the dough balls in cinnamon-spice sugar gives the cookies a lightly crunchy, flavorful crust after baking.

→ How is the glaze prepared and applied?

The glaze blends confectioners’ sugar with apple cider, whisked to a smooth consistency, then drizzled over cooled cookies for added sweetness and moisture.