Apple Cider Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar and Apple Cider Butter Glaze Recipe

These Apple Cider Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar and Apple Cider Butter Glaze Recipe are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. Their soft, chewy texture and rich flavors make them perfect for cozy gatherings or as a sweet indulgence any time of year. With a unique combination of reduced apple cider, brown butter, and aromatic spices, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Warm Autumn Flavors: The combination of apple cider and spices creates a comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious cookies.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for potlucks, parties, or simply as a sweet gift for loved ones.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as an afternoon snack or dessert after dinner; they fit any occasion.
• Stunning Presentation: The cinnamon sugar coating and glossy glaze make these cookies visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To get started with your Apple Cider Cookies, gather the essential tools that will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking cookies evenly.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie size for even baking and presentation.

Ingredients

To create these scrumptious Apple Cider Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar and Apple Cider Butter Glaze Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 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

For the Glaze

• 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 with Cinnamon Sugar and Apple Cider Butter Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Simmer until reduced to ¼ cup (59 ml), about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a saucepan or pot, melt the 20 tablespoons (283 g) of unsalted butter over low heat. Stir frequently as it begins to foam and turn fragrant with nutty bits. Once browned, transfer to a heat-safe bowl and cool for 15 minutes at room temperature. Refrigerate for another 15 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, apple pie spice or pumpkin spice, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the cooled brown butter with light brown sugar and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg, egg yolk, reduced apple cider, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Allow the dough to rest as you preheat the oven.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 7: Portion Dough

Using a medium cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons), portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space cookies approximately 3 inches (8 cm) apart.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly puffed. Cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 9: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In one bowl, whisk melted butter with the remaining apple cider. In another bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Step 10: Coat Cookies

Brush each cooled cookie with apple cider butter; immediately press into cinnamon sugar mixture. Flip the cookie to coat both sides before placing back on cooling rack.

Step 11: Drizzle Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and additional apple cider until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more powdered sugar if needed. Drizzle glaze over each cookie once set.

Enjoy your delightful Apple Cider Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar and Apple Cider Butter Glaze Recipe!

How to Serve Apple Cider Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar and Apple Cider Butter Glaze Recipe

These delightful Apple Cider Cookies are perfect for any occasion, offering a cozy taste of autumn with every bite. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee or Tea: Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea for a comforting treat during chilly days.
• Cider: Serve alongside warm apple cider to amplify the apple flavor in these cookies.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Cookies: Include these cookies on a platter with other baked goods like brownies and chocolate chip cookies for a varied dessert spread.
• Cheese Board: Add them to a cheese board for an interesting contrast between sweet and savory flavors.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Gift Boxes: Package cookies in decorative boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holidays.
• Party Favors: Wrap individual cookies in cellophane bags tied with ribbon as party favors for gatherings or events.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar and Apple Cider Butter Glaze Recipe

Achieving the ideal texture and flavor in your Apple Cider Cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you make them even better.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh spices and quality apple cider for the best flavor.
• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator helps solidify the fats, resulting in chewier cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Test Baking Times: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cookies at the lower end of the baking time range.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar and Apple Cider Butter Glaze Recipe

These Apple Cider Cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Consider serving them alongside these tasty options.

1. Caramel Apples: Fresh apples coated in rich caramel provide a sweet and crunchy contrast.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delicious cold element against warm cookies.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance out the sweetness of the cookies while adding freshness.
4. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts give a savory crunch that pairs nicely with sweet treats like these cookies.
5. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup adds comfort and warmth, making it an ideal pairing on cool days.
6. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a rich, creamy texture that complements the soft, spiced cookie perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Cider Cookies, even experienced bakers can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Not reducing the apple cider properly: Ensure you simmer the apple cider until it reduces to just ¼ cup. This concentrates the flavor, making your cookies more delicious.
• Skipping the brown butter step: Browning the butter adds a nutty flavor that enhances the cookies. Take your time to do this step well for the best results.
• Overmixing the dough: When incorporating dry ingredients into wet, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.
• Ignoring cookie spacing on the baking sheet: Make sure to space your cookie dough balls about 3 inches apart. This allows them to spread properly while baking.
• Not cooling cookies before glazing: Allow your cookies to cool completely before applying the glaze. This prevents melting and ensures a beautiful finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep layers of cookies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Cider Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar and Apple Cider Butter Glaze Recipe

• Freeze unglazed cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze cookies on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a container after they are solid.

Reheating Apple Cider Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar and Apple Cider Butter Glaze Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Apple Cider Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar and Apple Cider Butter Glaze Recipe special?

These cookies combine warm autumn flavors like apple and spices, topped with a sweet glaze that enhances their taste, making them perfect for fall.

Can I customize the spices in my Apple Cider Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite spice blends or adjust the amounts of cinnamon or apple pie spice according to your taste preferences.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Your cookies are done when their edges are set and they appear slightly puffed in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can experiment with different flours like whole wheat or gluten-free blends, but it may affect texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cider Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar and Apple Cider Butter Glaze Recipe are not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize them with various spices or glazes. Don’t hesitate—try making these cozy treats today!