Growing up, autumn was always a time filled with the rich aroma of spices and the comforting scent of apples. My grandmother had a special way of bringing the season to life, particularly with her delightful apple cider cookies. We’d often gather in her warm kitchen, laughter blending with the smell of baking as we eagerly anticipated the first bite of those soft, chewy treats. Each cookie reminded me of cozy fall afternoons spent strolling through orchards, picking apples, and sipping warm cider. It’s a memory I cherish, and now, I’m excited to share this simple recipe, so you too can make these delicious cookies and create your own autumn traditions.
This apple cider cookies recipe not only fills your home with a warm, inviting scent but also provides a delightful treat that’s perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up cookies that are soft and flavorful, capturing the essence of fall in every bite. Let’s dive into how to make these cozy cookies!
In This Post
Why Make This Recipe
These apple cider cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a warm hug on a chilly day. Perfectly spiced and wonderfully sweet, they pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Whether you’re looking to celebrate the harvest season or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is a must-try!

How to Make Apple Cider Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 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
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the apple cider, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of the dough, form into balls, and roll in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden.
- For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar and apple cider until smooth. Drizzle over the cookies after they cool.
- Enjoy your cozy fall cookies!
Tips to Make Apple Cider Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
- For added flavor, try using fresh apple cider instead of bottled.
- Don’t overbake the cookies; they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
How to Serve Apple Cider Cookies
Serve these apple cider cookies warm or at room temperature, either plain or with the delicious glaze on top. They make great afternoon snacks for family and friends, and they’re perfect for holiday parties or cozy get-togethers.
How to Store Apple Cider Cookies
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep for about a week, but I bet they won’t last that long! If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just layer between parchment paper and seal in a freezer bag.
Variation
You can experiment with these cookies by adding chopped walnuts or pecans for some extra crunch. If you prefer a darker spice flavor, try using pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon and nutmeg.
PrintApple Cider Cookies
Warm and cozy apple cider cookies that capture the essence of fall with every bite.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 12
- Total Time: 27
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 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
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the apple cider, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of the dough, form into balls, and roll in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden.
- For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar and apple cider until smooth. Drizzle over the cookies after they cool.
Notes
Make sure your butter is softened. Consider using fresh apple cider for more flavor. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes! Whole wheat flour can be used, but it may change the texture a bit, making the cookies denser.
2. What can I use instead of apple cider?
If you don’t have apple cider, you can substitute it with applesauce or even a little bit of apple juice.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before baking.
Enjoy making these delightful apple cider cookies, and may they bring warmth and sweetness to your fall season!
