Apple Cider Cookies: 5 Cozy Delights to Savor This Fall

There’s something utterly magical about the aroma of baking cookies that fills the air, especially when those cookies are my scrumptious apple cider cookies! Picture this: it’s a crisp fall afternoon, leaves are swirling around outside, and you’ve got a warm batch of these delightful treats baking in your oven. The moment you take a bite, you’re greeted with the warm spices of cinnamon, ginger, and allspice mingling beautifully with the rich, concentrated flavor of boiled apple cider. Trust me, it’s like a cozy hug in cookie form!

I remember the first time I made these cookies during a family gathering. Everyone gathered around the kitchen, and the moment the cookies came out of the oven, they disappeared faster than I could keep up! The combination of sweet and spicy just screams autumn, and they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family at those chilly gatherings. So, if you’re looking to add a touch of fall magic to your dessert table, you’ll want to stick around for this recipe!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making my apple cider cookies a delightful treat! Here’s what you’ll need:

• ⅓ cup boiled apple cider (concentrated): This is the star of the show! To make it, simply simmer apple cider over low heat until it reduces to about a quarter of its original volume. This concentrated flavor adds that magical autumn essence.
• ½ cup shortening, room temperature: Softened shortening helps create a tender texture in the cookies. Make sure it’s at room temperature so it mixes in smoothly.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetener brings balance to the warm spices, creating a deliciously sweet cookie.
• 1 egg, room temperature: The egg adds richness and moisture. Let it sit out for a bit to match the temperature of the shortening for better mixing.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making them pop!
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves: These bring an earthy and aromatic depth to the cookies.
• ¼ teaspoon allspice: A warm spice that adds a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon flavor.
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger: This spice adds a little zing and warmth that complements the apple cider perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A must-have for fall flavors; its warmth is comforting and nostalgic.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and gives them that perfect texture.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your cookie dough, providing structure and chewiness.
• ¼ cup sanding sugar (for rolling): This adds a lovely sparkle and crunch to the outside of your cookies. It’s optional, but trust me, it makes them look extra special!

How to Prepare Apple Cider Cookies

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to dive into the fun part – making these delicious apple cider cookies! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of cozy goodness ready to share (or not, no judgment here!).

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, you’ll want to start by beating the shortening, sugar, and egg together in a large mixing bowl. I like to use an electric mixer for this part; it makes things quick and easy. Mix it on medium speed for about 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is creamy and fluffy. Once that’s done, gently mix in the boiled apple cider until it’s fully blended. You’ll love how fragrant your kitchen starts to smell!

Next, take a separate bowl and whisk together your dry ingredients: the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and allspice. This step is crucial because it ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout your dough. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients on low speed. You want to mix until everything is just combined – don’t overdo it! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and nobody wants that.

Now, cover your dough with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This chilling step is super important because it prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking. While you’re waiting, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to make for easy clean-up.

Once the dough is chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized balls and roll each one in sanding sugar for that extra sparkle and crunch. Place your cookie dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake them for about 9 to 11 minutes, depending on how crisp you like the edges. The smell wafting through your house will be heavenly! After baking, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days – if they last that long!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these cookies baked in no time!
• Delightful flavor: The combination of warm spices and rich boiled apple cider creates a uniquely delicious taste that screams fall.
• Perfect for gatherings: These cookies are a hit at parties, family gatherings, or even just cozy nights at home. Everyone loves them!
• Make ahead: The dough can be chilled and baked later, making them perfect for busy schedules or unexpected guests.
• Fabulous aroma: Your kitchen will smell heavenly while these cookies are baking, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Tips for Success

To ensure your apple cider cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some essential tips that I swear by:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your shortening and egg are at room temperature before mixing. This helps everything blend smoothly and creates a fluffy texture.
• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It not only prevents excessive spreading but also enhances the flavors as the spices mingle together.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniform cookies, a cookie scoop is a game changer! It ensures even baking and makes your cookies look professionally made.
• Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They’ll firm up as they cool!
• Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to 5 days, but I bet they won’t last that long!

Variations of Apple Cider Cookies

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of fun ways to switch up my apple cider cookies! Here are a few delightful variations to try:

• Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
• Chocolate Chip Twist: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the warm spices. You can’t go wrong with chocolate!
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or nutmeg to create your own unique flavor profile.
• Fruity Addition: Toss in ½ cup of dried cranberries or apples for a chewy texture that complements the cookies beautifully.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect fall treat!

Nutritional Information Section

Let’s talk numbers! Each cookie has roughly 100 calories, which makes them a delightful treat without too much guilt. Here’s the breakdown per cookie:

• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 8g
• Protein: 1g

These values are estimates, of course, as actual nutritional content can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy these cookies guilt-free, knowing they pack a delicious punch without derailing your day!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use regular apple cider instead of boiled apple cider?
While you can use regular apple cider, boiling it down to concentrate the flavors really enhances the taste of the cookies. It adds a depth that makes these apple cider cookies truly special!

Q2: How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to five days, but I doubt they’ll last that long once your family gets a taste!

Q3: Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the chilled dough for up to three months. Just scoop it into balls and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then roll in sanding sugar and bake as usual!

Q4: What if I don’t have shortening?
If you don’t have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. Just remember, butter will give your cookies a different texture but still taste great!

Q5: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it includes xantham gum for the best texture!

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