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Apple Cider Cookies Recipe – Easy Homemade Fall Dessert with Cinnamon Icing

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Soft, cake-like apple cider cookies infused with concentrated apple cider and warm spices, finished with a sweet cinnamon icing. These cookies capture the cozy flavors and aromas of autumn, making them perfect for gatherings or a comforting treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/2 cups (312g) all-purpose flour (can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free blend)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) apple cider (reduce to 1/4 cup for stronger flavor)
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for icing)
  • 23 tablespoons (30–45ml) apple cider (for icing)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
  • Pinch of salt (for icing)

Instructions

  1. Pour 1/2 cup apple cider into a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until reduced to about 1/4 cup, about 10–12 minutes. Cool to room temperature.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  4. In a medium bowl, beat softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, 2–3 minutes.
  5. Beat in eggs one at a time, scraping the bowl after each. Add vanilla extract and cooled reduced apple cider. Mix until just combined.
  6. Slowly add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring gently until just incorporated. If dough is too loose, chill for 15 minutes.
  7. Scoop tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are set and centers are puffed. Do not overbake.
  9. Let cookies rest on tray for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
  10. In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, cinnamon, apple cider, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust thickness as needed.
  11. Drizzle or spread icing over cooled cookies. Let set for 10–15 minutes until slightly firm.

Notes

Reduce the apple cider for maximum flavor. Chilling the dough helps cookies stay thick and chewy. Use room temperature eggs and butter for best texture. For gluten-free or dairy-free adaptations, substitute flour and butter as needed. Add dried apples or cranberries for extra texture. Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze (without icing) for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

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