Apple Cider Cookies Recipe
Introduction
These Apple Cider Cookies are a delightful fall treat that combines the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweet, fresh flavor of diced apples. Soft and tender with a light apple cider glaze, they’re perfect for cozy afternoons or sharing with friends.

Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup diced apples
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1–2 tbsp apple cider (for glaze)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Step 3: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and apple cider until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined—be careful not to overmix.
- Step 6: Gently fold in the diced apples using a spatula, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Step 7: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Step 8: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Meanwhile, whisk together powdered sugar and apple cider to make a glaze, then drizzle it over the cooled cookies before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try substituting half of the apple cider in the dough with apple butter.
- If fresh apples are not available, freeze-dried apple pieces work well without adding extra moisture.
- To make the glaze thicker, add less apple cider; for a thinner glaze, add more cider gradually.
- Sprinkle a pinch of coarse sugar on top before baking for a subtle crunch and sparkle.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to one week or freeze for up to 3 months. If reheating, warm in a microwave for 10–15 seconds to refresh the soft texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Yes, you can substitute apple juice if you don’t have apple cider; however, cider has a more robust flavor which enhances the cookies.
Do I need to peel the apples for the cookies?
Peeling the apples is optional. Leaving the skins on adds texture and color, but if you prefer a smoother bite, peel the apples before dicing.
Print
Apple Cider Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Apple Cider Cookies are soft, spiced treats bursting with fresh apple flavor and a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for fall, they feature tender cookies made with apple cider and diced apples, topped with a sweet apple cider glaze for an extra touch of seasonal delight.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup diced apples
Apple Cider Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp apple cider
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for your cookie dough.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and apple cider until the mixture is smooth and well combined, infusing the dough with moisture and flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to ensure the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Fold in Diced Apples: Gently fold the diced apples into the dough with a spatula, distributing them evenly without breaking them down.
- Scoop and Bake: Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Glaze: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Mix the powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of apple cider to make a glaze, then drizzle it over the cooled cookies for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh, firm apples to ensure the diced pieces hold their shape during baking.
- You can adjust the apple cider amount in the glaze to achieve your desired consistency.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- These cookies can also be made dairy-free by substituting the butter with a vegan alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple cider cookies, fall cookies, spiced cookies, apple dessert, cinnamon cookies, apple glaze cookies

