Apple Cider Sugar Cookies combine the warmth of fall spices with the sweet, tangy essence of apple cider, creating a delightful treat for any occasion.
These soft, chewy cookies are infused with cinnamon and a hint of apple flavor, making them the perfect balance of comfort and sweetness.
Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of cider or serving them as a holiday dessert, these cookies bring the cozy flavors of autumn right to your kitchen in every bite.
How To Make Apple Cider Sugar Cookies?
Preparation Times: 15 minutes
Cooking Times: 12 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Yields: About 24 cookies
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup apple cider (preferably fresh)
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling the cookies
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cornstarch, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat unsalted butter (softened) with granulated sugar and light brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Incorporate Apple Cider
Pour in apple cider, preferably fresh, and mix until just combined. The cider adds moisture and a subtle apple flavor to the dough.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Chill Dough
For the best texture, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
8. Shape the Cookies
Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each dough ball in a shallow dish of extra granulated sugar, coating them evenly.
9. Bake
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
10. Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy with a warm cup of cider or your favorite beverage.
Nutrition Facts Of Apple Cider Sugar Cookies
- Calories: 140
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Sugar: 14g
Serving Suggestions
❖ With a Hot Beverage: Serve these cookies with a warm cup of apple cider, tea, or coffee to complement the cinnamon and apple flavors.
❖ As a Dessert Plate: Pair them with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a sweet, indulgent treat.
❖ On a Holiday Platter: These cookies make a festive addition to holiday dessert platters alongside other seasonal treats like pumpkin pie or pecan tarts.
❖ With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside slices of fresh apples or pears for a fresh and flavorful contrast to the sweet, spiced cookies.
Tips and Variations
➤ Chill the Dough: For best results, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and ensure a thicker, softer texture.
➤ Avoid Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies.
➤ Add Cinnamon Chips: Mix in cinnamon chips or white chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
➤ Spiced Apple Cider: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the dough alongside the cinnamon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Can I use a different type of apple cider?
Yes, both sweetened and unsweetened apple cider work, but unsweetened gives the best natural apple flavor.
Do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and keeps them soft.
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Apple juice can be used, but it lacks the deeper, spiced flavor of apple cider, which can affect the taste.
Can I make the cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it up to 3 days ahead.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and check the apple cider to ensure its dairy-free.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
Apple Cider Sugar Cookies are the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With their soft texture and warm, spiced taste, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Whether for cozy gatherings or festive treats, these cookies bring a comforting touch to every occasion.