Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Published: August 25, 2025

by Ezra

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of spices and apple cider gives these cookies a unique taste reminiscent of autumn.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up this recipe without trouble.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for holiday parties, family gatherings, or as a cozy snack on chilly days.
Soft and Chewy: Each cookie is made to be soft and chewy, providing that perfect bite every time.
Customizable Icing: You can adjust the icing’s sweetness for an extra touch that suits your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make the experience enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Saucepan
Whisk
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Cookie scoop
Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly; having multiple sizes helps manage different components easily.
Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes, which helps with even baking and presentation.
Cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly while maintaining their texture without becoming soggy.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 cups (474 ml) apple cider
– 20 tablespoons (283 g) unsalted butter
– 2½ cups (300 g) all purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons apple pie spice or pumpkin spice
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ¼ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1¼ cup (250 g) light brown sugar
– ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
– 1 large egg (US), room temperature
– 1 large egg yolk (US), room temperature
– 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
– 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons (30 ml) apple cider (not reduced)
– ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon or spice blend
– 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 – 2 tablespoons (15 – 30 ml) apple cider (not reduced)

How to Make Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan.
Heat over medium-high until it simmers gently.
Cook until it reduces down to about ¼ cup (59 ml), approximately 15 – 20 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it cool in a bowl.

Step 2: Prepare Brown Butter

Melt the unsalted butter in another saucepan over low heat.
Stir frequently until it foams and turns nutty with brown bits floating.
Transfer the brown butter to a heat-safe bowl and cool for about 15 minutes at room temperature; then chill it in the fridge for another 15 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
Flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Cornstarch
Spices
Salt

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled brown butter with light brown and granulated sugars until well mixed.
Add egg, egg yolk, reduced apple cider, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
Let the dough rest while preheating your oven to 375 F (190 C).

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop, place dough balls on the sheet about three inches apart.
Bake for about 9 -11 minutes until edges set and centers puff slightly.

Step 7: Cool Cookies

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Make Apple Cider Butter & Cinnamon Sugar

Whisk melted butter with apple cider in one bowl; in another bowl mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon.

Step 9: Assemble Cookies

Brush each cookie’s top and sides with apple cider butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar. Flip and coat the bottom as well before placing on a cooling rack.

Step 10: Drizzle Icing

Mix powdered sugar with apple cider and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies for added sweetness before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Apple Cider Cookies!

How to Serve Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

These delightful apple cider cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying with your favorite beverages. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with this cozy treat.

With a Warm Beverage

Hot Apple Cider: Pair the cookies with a warm cup of spiced apple cider for a comforting fall treat.
Coffee or Espresso: The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the cookies, making it a great afternoon snack.

At a Gathering

Dessert Platter: Arrange the cookies on a festive platter alongside other fall desserts like pumpkin pie and caramel apples.
Gift Packaging: Wrap the cookies in clear bags tied with twine for a charming gift during the holiday season.

For Kids

Milk Dipping: Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk, which kids love for dipping!
Cookie Decorating: Let kids decorate their own cookies with icing and sprinkles for added fun.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

To ensure your apple cider cookies turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Apple Cider: Fresh cider enhances the flavor significantly compared to store-bought options.
Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest before baking helps improve texture and flavor.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of spices based on your preference for warmth and flavor intensity.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter that bakes evenly.
Store Properly: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain their chewy texture.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

These apple cider cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their sweet and spicy notes. Here are some great options:

Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: Fresh apple slices drizzled with caramel make for a crunchy and sweet accompaniment.
Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses, especially sharp cheddar, contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cookies.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal drink enhances the cozy flavors of apple cider, creating a perfect pairing.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with the flavors in your apple cider cookies.
Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted pecans or almonds adds crunchiness that balances out the soft cookie texture.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness and cuts through the richness of the cookies, offering a refreshing bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making apple cider cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Using unmeasured ingredients: Always measure your ingredients accurately. This ensures the right balance of flavors and texture in your Apple Cider Cookies Recipe.
Skipping the cooling time: Don’t rush the cooling process of the brown butter and reduced cider. Allowing it to cool properly helps develop rich flavors.
Overmixing the dough: Be gentle when mixing wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
Not chilling the dough: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Give them at least 30 minutes in the fridge for better shape.
Underbaking: Keep an eye on baking time. Underbaked cookies will not set properly and may end up too soft or gooey.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store apple cider cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

You can freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, warming each cookie for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Apple Cider Cookies Recipe.

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Yes, store-bought apple cider works well. Just ensure it’s fresh for the best flavor in your cookies.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges should be set, and the centers slightly puffed. They will continue cooking as they cool.

What can I substitute for apple pie spice?

You can use a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice if you don’t have apple pie spice on hand.

Are these cookies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! These apple cider cookies freeze well and can be stored for up to 3 months.

Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to customize by adding nuts or raisins if you enjoy additional texture and flavor in your apple cider cookies.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cider Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. Their soft, chewy texture combined with warm spices makes them perfect for any dessert table or cozy evening at home. You can easily customize them by adding nuts or swapping spices according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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