Soft and Spiced Apple Cookies Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, sweet treat, these apple cookies are the perfect answer. They’re soft, warmly spiced, and packed with the delicious flavor of fresh apples. Whether you’re baking for a fall gathering, a holiday cookie exchange, or simply to enjoy with your afternoon coffee, these cookies deliver comfort in every bite.

What Are Apple Cookies?

Apple cookies combine the comforting flavors of apples and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, all in a soft, chewy cookie base. Small pieces of diced apple add bursts of sweetness and a hint of tartness, while optional nuts provide a delightful crunch. They’re a seasonal twist on classic cookies, perfect for autumn or any time you want a taste of home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just over 20 minutes, with simple steps and common pantry ingredients.
• Bursting with flavor: A blend of cinnamon and nutmeg brings out the natural sweetness of the apples.
• Versatile: Add nuts, or try other variations to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for fall: These cookies pair beautifully with cooler weather and a hot cup of tea or cider.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150 g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt

Add-ins:

• 1 cup (120 g) peeled and diced apples (cut into small cubes)
• 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the wet ingredients: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Combining Ingredients

4. Blend dry into wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
5. Fold in the add-ins: Gently fold in the diced apples and nuts (if using) with a spatula.

Shaping and Baking

6. Portion the dough: Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
8. Cool the cookies: Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own but can be elevated with these pairings:

• Enjoy with a glass of milk or a mug of hot apple cider.
• Serve as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Add them to a holiday cookie platter for a spiced seasonal touch.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Room temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: To extend freshness, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 1 week.

Freezing Instructions

• Freezing dough: Shape the dough into scoops and freeze on a baking sheet until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the bake time.
• Freezing baked cookies: Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.
• Vegan: Replace butter with vegan butter, the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water), and ensure sugar is vegan-friendly.
• Add-ins: Try dried cranberries, raisins, or white chocolate chips for extra flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for an extra layer of warmth.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, any firm apple variety works well. Granny Smith adds tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji bring more sweetness.

Can I make the cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, or frozen for longer storage.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but it’s optional if you prefer a rustic look and added fiber.

Soft, spiced, and loaded with apple flavor, these apple cookies are a must-try treat for any occasion. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to become a family favorite. Why not bake a batch today and fill your home with the comforting aroma of apples and cinnamon? Share your results and let us know how you made them your own!

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