Name: Caramel Apple Cider Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 41 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Butter, Softened; 1/2 cup Sugar; 5 packets Apple Cider Mix; 1 Egg; 1/2 tsp Vanilla; 1 1/2 cups Flour; 1/2 tsp Baking Soda; 1/4 tsp Baking Powder; 1/2 tsp Cinnamon; 1 cup Kraft Caramel Bits

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There’s something utterly magical about the season of fall. The scent of cinnamon wafts through the air as vibrant leaves blanket the ground, and the taste of warm apple cider becomes a coveted delight. This year, I wanted to capture that essence in a cookie. Enter Caramel Apple Cider Cookies—a sweet homage to the cozy flavors we adore! Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that encapsulates the warming notes of apple cider, with rich caramel oozing from each bite.

Table of Contents

Why This Is The Best Caramel Apple Cider Cookies Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Caramel Apple Cider Cookies
Tips for Success
Serve It With
How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
Tips & Variations
Recipe FAQs
Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

The very first time I made these cookies was during an autumn gathering with close friends. I recall the laughter, the pumpkin-spiced everything, and, of course, the first tray of cookies I pulled from the oven, their edges lightly golden and the whole kitchen radiating warmth. These cookies went quickly, leaving behind only fond memories and smiles. Whether for a festive gathering or a casual afternoon snack, these cookies make every occasion feel special. Let’s dive into the world of Caramel Apple Cider Cookies, where joy fills both the kitchen and the heart!

Why This Is The Best Caramel Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

What I love most about this Caramel Apple Cider Cookies recipe is its simplicity. With just 30 minutes of prep and an additional 11 minutes in the oven, you can whip up a batch of treats that taste as though they’ve been baking all day. Each cookie bursts with an irresistible flavor, blending the sweet taste of apple cider with gooey caramel, tantalizing your taste buds with every bite. Visually, they’re stunning too, with a golden-brown hue sprinkled with bits of caramel glistening just perfectly.

These cookies are perfect for a wide range of settings, making them feel versatile. Whether you serve them at a potluck, include them in your holiday cookie box, or present them as a cozy dessert after dinner, they won’t disappoint. Plus, if you’re looking for more dietary-friendly versions, this recipe can be adapted for gluten-free or even dairy-free diets without compromising on flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1/2 cup Butter, Softened
This ingredient provides richness and tender texture. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easier mixing. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
1/2 cup Sugar
Granulated sugar adds sweetness, balancing the flavors beautifully. You could use brown sugar for a hint of molasses flavor or a sugar alternative if you’re watching your intake.
5 packets Apple Cider Mix
This is the star ingredient that imparts that warm apple flavor. Feel free to use a good-quality instant spiced cider mix. If you want a fresher taste, consider using homemade or bottled apple cider instead, but be aware it may alter the dough’s consistency.
1 Egg
The egg binds the ingredients together, adding moisture. For a vegan alternative, you can use a flaxseed egg or applesauce.
1/2 tsp Vanilla
Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor. Always opt for pure vanilla over imitation for the best taste.
1 1/2 cups Flour
All-purpose flour gives the cookies structure. For gluten-free options, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
1/2 tsp Baking Soda
This leavening agent helps the cookies rise slightly, providing a great airy texture.
1/4 tsp Baking Powder
A little boost in fluffiness, especially when combined with baking soda.
1/2 tsp Cinnamon
Cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile. You can experiment with pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist.
1 cup Kraft Caramel Bits
These are the gooey treasures that make every bite heavenly. Alternatively, you could use chopped up soft caramel candies, though you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial! While it heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and provide an even bake. I love using parchment paper because it makes cleanup a breeze, and the cookies slide right off without hassle.

Cream Together

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with sugar and the apple cider mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air, making your cookies soft and chewy. You want to ensure everything is well combined, so don’t rush this step. Then, add in the egg and vanilla. Beat them together until fully integrated—this creates an even batter that retains moisture.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a smaller bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon. This step is vital as it ensures that your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour. A well-mixed dry base means a perfectly rising cookie. Once combined, gently fold the mixture into the wet ingredients until you see the cookie dough coming together. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to tough cookies.

Fold in Caramel Bits

Gently mix in those delightful Kraft caramel bits. As they incorporate, you might find that the mixture gets a little sticky, but that’s the magic unfolding! Be sure to ensure even distribution of the caramel in the dough. It’s like embedding little treasures to surprise taste buds later!

Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop out about 1.5-tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave plenty of space between each cookie, as they will spread a bit during baking. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 11 minutes. Keep an eye out for that glorious golden edge, along with a soft appearance in the center. Once done, let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted. It’s ideal for a creamy mixture without oily spots.
Sifting: For an extra light texture, consider sifting your dry ingredients before combining. It’s a simple step but pays off in the final cookie.
Don’t Overmix: Gently folding the dry ingredients into the wet ones maintains cookie tenderness. Overmixing can lead to airier cookies, which aren’t what we want.
Chilling Dough: If you want slightly thicker cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.
Taste Testing: Always sample a tiny bit of the dough, just before you bake, to ensure flavor balance.

Serve It With

To elevate your Caramel Apple Cider Cookies, consider serving them warm with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a decadent treat. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an aesthetic touch—who doesn’t love a sprinkle of sweetness? Or perhaps a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for those looking to indulge even further. Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of coffee or spiced tea, and you’ve got the ideal cozy afternoon set.

How To Store & Reheat Leftovers

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but if you find yourself with leftovers (which might be a rare occurrence!), they can be stored. At room temperature, they’ll last up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate them for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, pop the cookies in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, just use your microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300 degrees for 5-7 minutes until just heated through.

Tips & Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or want something a little different, here are some variations to consider:

Add-ins: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an added crunch.
Flavored Extracts: Try replacing vanilla with almond extract or even a touch of maple for an extra depth of flavor.
Fruits: Toss in some finely chopped dried apples or cranberries to introduce another fruity element.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free treat.
Vegan Version: Swap the butter for a non-dairy option and use a flax or chia egg instead of the regular egg to keep it vegan-friendly.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour. Make sure your ingredients, like baking powder and baking soda, are also gluten-free.

How can I get my cookies to be softer?

For softer cookies, be sure to not overbake them. Take them out of the oven when the edges are set, and they still look a little underbaked in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can these cookies be frozen?

Yes, these cookies freeze wonderfully! They can be stored in a sealed container or a freezer bag for up to three months. Just remember to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

How do I get the caramel bits to stay in my cookies?

To ensure the caramel bits stay embedded in the cookie, gently fold them in after the dry ingredients are combined, then refrigerate the dough briefly before baking to make sure they don’t sink too much during baking.

At the heart of it all, the Caramel Apple Cider Cookies encompass the warmth and comfort of fall. Their delightful blend of flavors and textures invites you to share joy with friends and family around the dinner table or enjoyed alone with a warm cup of cider. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon or a festive gathering, these cookies promise to make every moment sweeter. I can’t wait for you to try them and perhaps create your own fond memories. Happy baking!

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