Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe air carries a crisp whisper of autumn, and the rich scent of apples and spices beckons me into the kitchen. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Caramel Apple Cider Cookies. These delightful treats not only capture the essence of fall, but also come together with ease, making them an irresistible choice for both busy weekdays and festive gatherings. Each bite brings a soft, chewy texture paired with the sweet surprises of caramel hidden within. Not only are these cookies perfect for your next cozy get-together, but they also offer a comforting indulgence to enjoy with a warm cup of cider or coffee. Ready to bake up a batch and fill your home with the aromas of the season? Let’s dive in! Why Are These Cookies a Fall Favorite? Irresistible Flavors: The combination of sweet caramel and spiced apple cider creates a flavor explosion that’s quintessentially autumn. Effortless Preparation: This recipe is super simple, making it perfect for novice and experienced bakers alike. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for family gatherings, holiday parties, or simply enjoying at home, these cookies are sure to impress everyone. Warm & Cozy: The soft, chewy texture paired with gooey caramel centers provides the ultimate comfort food experience during the chilly days of fall. You might also love making Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies for a seasonal twist! Caramel Apple Cider Cookies Ingredients For the Cookies Apple Cider – Adds moisture and a robust apple flavor; substitute with apple juice for a milder taste. Caramel Pieces or Sauce – Provides a gooey surprise inside each cookie; use high-quality caramel for the best results. All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; ensure proper measurement for optimal consistency. Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a soft texture. Butter – Contributes richness and flavor; use unsalted butter for better control of salt levels. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens cookies and aids in browning. Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and depth of flavor. Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds richness. Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and classic fall spice flavors; pair with nutmeg for even more depth. Nutmeg – Enhances the cookies with additional warmth and flavor; consider adding a pinch of ground cloves for an extra kick. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Caramel Apple Cider Cookies Step 1: Prepare Ingredients Begin by gathering and measuring all the ingredients for your Caramel Apple Cider Cookies. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and cut your caramel into small pieces to ensure they melt evenly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your dough is prepared. Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes using an electric mixer. Beat in the egg until well combined, ensuring a smooth blend. This step creates a rich base for your cookies, enhancing their texture as they bake. Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Take care not to overmix to maintain the cookies’ delightful chewy texture. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Step 4: Incorporate Apple Cider Gently fold in the apple cider, ensuring it is fully integrated into the dough. If you’re adding chopped dried apples, do so at this stage as well. The cider will add a moistness to your Caramel Apple Cider Cookies and an aromatic flavor that captures the essence of fall baking, bringing everything together beautifully. Step 5: Shape & Chill Dough Scoop the dough with a cookie scoop or spoon onto a lined baking sheet, ensuring the caramel pieces are completely enclosed in the dough. It’s essential to space them about 2 inches apart. Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes; this helps prevent spreading during baking. Step 6: Bake Once chilled, it’s time to bake! Place your dough in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, and the centers look set but still soft. This will give your Caramel Apple Cider Cookies that perfect chewy texture while leaving a warm, gooey surprise inside. Step 7: Cool & Serve Remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. To enhance the warm caramel flavor, drizzle some additional caramel over the cookies before serving. These delightful treats are best enjoyed warm, paired perfectly with your favorite hot beverage. Expert Tips for Caramel Apple Cider Cookies Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring the perfect cookie shape. Quality Caramel Matters: Use high-quality caramel pieces or sauce to achieve that gooey center. Cheaper options may not melt properly, leading to disappointment. Proper Flour Measurement: Leavening and texture can be affected by how you measure flour. Spoon it into your cup and level it off without packing for best results. Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing may result in tough cookies instead of soft, chewy Caramel Apple Cider Cookies. Watch Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. The edges should be golden while the centers still look soft; they will continue to cook as they cool. Caramel Apple Cider Cookies Variations Feel free to get creative with these Caramel Apple Cider Cookies; let your imagination run wild as you enhance this delightful recipe! Apple Juice: Substitute apple cider with apple juice for a milder flavor while still keeping that delightful apple essence. Mini Chocolate Chips: Swap dried apples for mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise that pairs beautifully with the caramel. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or more nutmeg to elevate the warm flavor profile and give these cookies an exciting twist. Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that contrasts the chewy cookie and gooey caramel. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these delicious cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family. Salted Caramel: Enhance the flavor by using salted caramel pieces; the salt will perfectly balance the sweetness of the cookies. Pumpkin Spice Twist: Add pumpkin pie spice in place of the cinnamon for a seasonal twist that’s perfect for the fall. Vegan-Friendly: Substitute butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flax egg to create a vegan-friendly version of these cookies without losing taste. Now that you’ve got various options to customize these treats, you might also enjoy making Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies or Cotton Candy Cookies to further celebrate the flavors of the season! Make Ahead Options These Caramel Apple Cider Cookies are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking, allowing you to enjoy freshly baked cookies whenever the craving strikes. Just be sure to keep the dough tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain its quality and prevent drying out. If you’re really ahead of the game, you can also scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months, and bake directly from frozen; simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. When you’re ready to enjoy, just preheat the oven, bake those delicious Caramel Apple Cider Cookies, and treat yourself to a warm, gooey indulgence with minimal effort! What to Serve with Caramel Apple Cider Cookies? Imagine cozying up with a plate of warm, chewy cookies paired with delightful side dishes that elevate their irresistible fall flavor. Hot Apple Cider: The classic pairing! Enjoying cookies alongside warm apple cider enhances their apple flavors and brings the best of autumn to your table. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over your cookies, creating a heavenly combination of warm and cold sensations. Spiced Tea: A cup of spiced chai or herbal tea complements the cinnamon and nutmeg in the cookies, making for a warm beverage to savor. Cheese Board: Featuring sharp cheddar or tangy goat cheese can add a sophisticated twist, balancing the sweetness of the cookies with salty, creamy elements. Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace fall’s favorite flavors by pairing these cookies with a cozy pumpkin spice latte, making your snack feel like a café treat! Ginger Snaps: A crunchy counterpoint, ginger snaps bring a crispy texture and additional warmth that harmonizes beautifully with the cookies’ chewy softness. Chocolate Milk: This indulgent drink, with its rich chocolate flavor, offers a fun contrast, turning snack time into a nostalgic treat for both kids and adults alike. Pecan Pie Bars: A slice of pecan pie bars delivers that nutty sweetness to complement the caramel and apple flavors, creating a delightful dessert spread. Honey Butter: Spread a little honey butter on a warm biscuit alongside your cookie, adding a hint of sweetness that echoes the caramel’s richness. Storage Tips for Caramel Apple Cider Cookies Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft and chewy texture. Fridge: If you prefer your cookies chilled, place them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to seal them well to avoid drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, allowing that gooey caramel to melt again. Caramel Apple Cider Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best apple cider for the cookies? Absolutely! Look for fresh, unfiltered apple cider if you can find it; it offers a robust flavor that’s perfect for baking. Avoid products with added sugars or preservatives, as they can dilute the natural apple taste. If you’re shopping, check the labels to ensure the cider has a rich, fragrant aroma, a telltale sign of quality. What is the best way to store Caramel Apple Cider Cookies? To maintain freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer to chill them, you can keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent them from drying out. Just remember, for the best texture, they are delightful when enjoyed at room temperature! Can I freeze these cookies for later use? Yes, indeed! For freezing, first place your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. This prevents them from sticking together. Afterward, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag, layering parchment paper between each layer to keep them from sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave them for 10–15 seconds or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes—just enough to let the caramel melt again. Why did my cookies spread too much while baking? Very! If your cookies spread excessively, it’s often due to warm dough or insufficient chilling time. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Additionally, using too much butter or not measuring flour accurately can lead to spreading. For next time, try adding an extra tablespoon of flour if you notice the dough is too sticky or if your cookies spread too much. Are there any special dietary considerations for these cookies? Certainly! If you’re baking for someone with allergies, keep in mind that this recipe uses gluten (from the all-purpose flour) and dairy (from the butter). You can substitute with gluten-free flour blends and dairy-free butter if needed, but always check the specific brands, as results can vary. For pets, avoid letting them have any cookies, especially those containing chocolate or high sugars, which can be harmful to them. Always prioritize safety! Delicious Caramel Apple Cider Cookies for Cozy Fall Days Indulge in these Caramel Apple Cider Cookies that capture the essence of autumn with their soft and chewy texture. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: CookiesCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookies1 cup Apple Cider Substitute with apple juice for a milder taste.1 cup Caramel Pieces or Sauce Use high-quality caramel for best results.2 cups All-Purpose Flour Ensure proper measurement for optimal consistency.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Acts as a leavening agent for a soft texture.1/2 cup Butter Use unsalted butter for better control of salt levels.1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens cookies and aids in browning.1/2 cup Brown Sugar Adds moisture and depth of flavor.1 large Egg Binds ingredients together and adds richness.1 teaspoon Cinnamon Infuses warmth and classic fall spice flavors.1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg Enhances cookies with additional warmth and flavor. Equipment Mixing bowlsElectric mixerBaking sheetCookie scoopplastic wrap Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare Ingredients: Gather and measure all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix Wet Ingredients: Cream butter with sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg until well combined. Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually mix into the wet mixture. Incorporate Apple Cider: Gently fold in the apple cider, ensuring thorough integration with the dough. Shape & Chill Dough: Scoop dough onto a lined baking sheet, cover, and chill for at least 30 minutes. Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until edges are golden and centers are set but soft. Cool & Serve: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. Drizzle with caramel if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor best results, chill the dough and avoid overmixing to maintain a soft, chewy texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
