Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Apple Cider Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly capture the warm flavors of fall. Soft, spiced, and subtly sweet, these cookies are a great way to enjoy the essence of apple cider in a chewy, comforting bite.

Ingredients

• 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons apple pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons instant apple cider mix, divided
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, apple pie spice, salt, and 2 tablespoons of the instant apple cider mix. Set this dry mixture aside.
2. Step 2: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the apple cider to the butter and sugar mixture, then mix until combined.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
5. Step 5: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up, which helps with shaping later.
6. Step 6: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Step 7: Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of instant apple cider mix evenly over the cookie dough balls.
9. Step 9: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
10. Step 10: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• Use a sharp apple pie spice blend or make your own by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice for an extra aromatic touch.
• To add texture, fold in 1/2 cup chopped nuts or dried cranberries before chilling the dough.
• For a sweeter finish, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider over cooled cookies.
• Chilling the dough overnight can deepen flavors and improve the cookie’s texture.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them soft, place a slice of apple or a piece of bread in the container. They also freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheat gently in a microwave for 10 seconds to refresh softness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh apple cider for the instant apple cider mix?

Fresh apple cider adds moisture but lacks the concentrated flavor and powdery texture of the mix. If substituting, reduce other liquids slightly and consider adding a bit of cinnamon or spices to maintain flavor.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?

Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and refrigerate the dough as directed before baking. Also, avoid overmixing the dough once the flour is added, as that can cause excessive spreading.

Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 146 reviews

These Apple Cider Cookies are soft, flavorful treats that blend the warm spices of apple cider with a tender, buttery cookie base. Perfectly spiced and infused with real apple cider, they deliver a delightful fall-inspired flavor that’s both comforting and delicious.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 2–1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons apple pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons instant apple cider mix (divided)

Wet Ingredients

• 1 (2 sticks) cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to ensure easy cookie removal and even baking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, apple pie spice, salt, and 2 tablespoons of the instant apple cider mix until well combined.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, using a hand or stand mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add apple cider: Slowly mix in the 1/4 cup apple cider into the creamed butter and sugar until fully incorporated and smooth.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender cookies.
6. Shape the cookies: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form dough into balls approximately 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheets to allow room for spreading.
7. Sugar coating: Roll each cookie dough ball in the remaining 1 tablespoon of instant apple cider mix to give them an extra burst of flavor and a subtle sparkle.
8. Bake: Bake cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set but still soft.
9. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps them firm up and finish baking evenly.

Notes

• For a stronger apple flavor, you can add a teaspoon of apple extract to the dough.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
• Ensure butter is softened but not melted for best creaming results.
• You can substitute the instant apple cider mix with finely ground cinnamon and dried apple powder if unavailable.

Keywords: apple cider cookies, spiced cookies, fall cookies, apple pie spice, soft cookies, holiday cookies