Apple Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These Apple Cookies are a delightful treat combining the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweet, tender flavor of apple. Perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or sharing with friends, they offer a soft texture and rich taste that will satisfy any cookie lover.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
6. Step 6: Fold in any chopped apples or apple pieces if desired (optional).
7. Step 7: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Step 8: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Step 9: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• For extra texture, add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough.
• Try using peeled and finely chopped tart apples for a brighter flavor.
• If you prefer a softer cookie, slightly underbake them and let them set as they cool.
• Add a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking for a crunchy finish.

Storage

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container to maintain moisture. They can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them warm.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use apple sauce instead of fresh apples?

Using apple sauce can add moisture but may alter the cookie texture, making them softer and denser. If using apple sauce, reduce the butter slightly to compensate for added moisture.

What type of apples work best in this recipe?

Tart and firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal as they hold their shape and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tang.

Apple Cookies Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 117 reviews

These delicious Apple Cookies combine warm spices and tender apples with a buttery cookie base, creating a perfect treat for fall or any time of year. Soft, chewy, and bursting with spiced apple flavor, these cookies make a comforting dessert or snack that’s easy to bake at home.

• Author: Zane
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Cookie Dough

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Add-ins

• 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (not provided in the original but essential for apple cookies)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. Add Apples: Gently fold in the finely chopped apple pieces until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Form Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look set.
9. Cool: Remove from oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

• You can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour for a nuttier flavor and a slightly healthier option.
• Make sure the apples are finely chopped to ensure they cook properly inside the cookies.
• For extra texture, add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or raisins to the dough.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

Keywords: apple cookies, spiced cookies, autumn dessert, soft cookies, cinnamon cookies