Introduction
As the leaves turn golden and the air takes on that crisp autumn bite, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of freshly baked cookies filling your home with delightful aromas. These Apple Cider Cookies are a slice of fall in every bite, combining the sweet, tangy notes of apple cider with warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of tea or sharing them with friends at a cozy gathering, these cookies are sure to bring comfort and joy during those chilly days. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will make your kitchen smell like a delightful autumn orchard!
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped dried apples (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set this fragrant mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Beat in the apple cider, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- If you’re using them, fold in the chopped dried apples and walnuts to add texture and flavor to your cookies.
- Using a rounded tablespoon, drop dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your warm, comforting cookies!
Notes or Tips
For an added burst of flavor, consider substituting the apple cider with spiced cider. You can also adjust the spices to your liking; a pinch of allspice or ginger can add an extra layer of warmth. If you want gluten-free cookies, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend!
Cooking Techniques
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, as this ensures the right texture in your cookies. Creaming the butter and sugars properly will incorporate air, providing a nice rise. Overmixing after adding the dry ingredients can lead to dense cookies, so mix gently and just until combined.
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies? Absolutely! Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
What if I don’t have dried apples? No worries! You can leave them out or substitute with other mix-ins like raisins or chocolate chips for a different twist.
Conclusion
These Apple Cider Cookies are the perfect treat to embrace the spirit of fall, bringing together the sweetness of apple cider and the coziness of home-baked goodness. With their soft texture and spiced flavor, they are sure to become a new family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, turn on your oven, and let the delightful scents of autumn fill your kitchen. Happy baking!