Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

Introduction

As autumn rolls in, there’s something undeniably comforting about the flavors of fall. When I first baked Caramel Apple Cider Cookies, the warm aromas of cinnamon and baked apples filled my home, transporting me straight to a crisp fall afternoon. These cookies became an instant favorite among my family and friends, with their delightful gooey caramel centers and hints of apple cider. The combination of textures—soft and chewy with a sweet drizzle of caramel—made these cookies perfect for sharing during harvest gatherings or enjoying with a warm cup of cider. Here’s how you can create this delightful fall treat in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup apple cider
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup dried apples, chopped
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)

Instructions

Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugars

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Add Wet Ingredients

4. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and apple cider until well combined.

Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cookie texture.

Fold in Add-Ins

6. Gently fold in the chopped dried apples until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Stuff with Caramel

7. Take a small portion of cookie dough, flatten it slightly in your hand, and place a small amount of caramel sauce in the center. Fold the dough over to fully enclose the caramel and form a ball. Repeat this step for all cookies.

Bake

8. Arrange the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.

Cool and Drizzle

9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce for an extra sweet touch.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150 calories

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling)
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 12-15 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm: Serve cookies warm for a gooey caramel experience.
• With Ice Cream: Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• Drizzled with Caramel: Add an extra drizzle of caramel on top for an indulgent treat.
• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy with a warm beverage for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Gift Giving: Package them in decorative boxes for a sweet homemade gift.

Additional Tips

1. Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking helps prevent spreading and results in chewier cookies.
2. Apple Cider Concentrate: For a stronger apple flavor, reduce apple cider by simmering it to a syrup-like consistency or use apple cider concentrate.
3. Freshness Check: Always ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise.
4. Storage Options: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness.
5. Mixing Technique: Be gentle when mixing to keep the cookies soft and tender.

Recipe Variations

• Nutty Cookies: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
• Spiced Variation: Enhance the spices with a pinch of ginger or allspice for added warmth.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for a chocolatey twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan Alternative: Use flaxseed meal as an egg substitute and plant-based butter for a vegan version.

Serving Suggestions

• Fall Gatherings: Perfect for Thanksgiving or harvest parties.
• Cozy Evenings: Enjoy while curled up with a book or watching a movie.
• Potluck Events: Bring to potlucks for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• School Treats: Ideal for school bake sales or lunchbox surprises.

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Refrigerate to extend freshness for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh apples instead of dried?

• Fresh apples can be used, but they may add extra moisture to the dough. You might need to adjust the flour.

1. What type of caramel sauce should I use?

• Store-bought or homemade caramel sauce both work well.

1. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading?

• Chilling the dough before baking can help maintain their shape.

1. Can I substitute apple cider with apple juice?

• Yes, but apple cider gives a richer flavor compared to apple juice.

1. How do I know when the cookies are done?

• The edges should be golden, while the centers may look slightly underbaked.

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

1. What should I do if my cookies are too dry?

• Ensure you’re measuring the flour correctly; using a kitchen scale can help.

1. Can I use a different type of sugar?

• You can use coconut sugar for a different flavor profile, but the texture may change slightly.

1. Are these cookies suitable for freezing?

• Yes, both the baked cookies and unbaked dough can be frozen.

1. Can I make mini versions of these cookies?
   • Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time accordingly for smaller cookies.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Cider Cookies capture the essence of fall in every bite. Their delightful combination of spices, sweet apples, and gooey caramel makes them an irresistible treat. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or as part of a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it a cozy fall tradition in your home!

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