Name: Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies: A Cozy Fall Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 160 min
Ingredients: 2 cups apple cider (reduced); 0.5 cups butter (brown butter preferred); 1 cups brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger; 0.25 teaspoon ground cardamom; 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg; pinch salt; 0.5 cups granulated sugar; 0.5 cups powdered sugar

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As the cool breeze of autumn settles in, I found myself reluctantly pushing aside the summer treats and embracing all things cozy and spiced. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies, perfectly capturing the essence of the season. These cookies offer an effortless baking experience while delivering a soft, cake-like texture that will delight your taste buds. Infused with the warm notes of brown sugar, apple cider, and an exquisite blend of spices, they’re an elegant twist on your favorite fall dessert. Plus, the addition of brown butter takes these cookies to a whole new level of indulgence—making them both a crowd-pleaser and a cherished recipe for festive gatherings. Curious to see how you can bring the flavors of autumn right to your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

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Why Are Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies a Must-Try?

Cozy, Seasonal Flavors: These cookies capture autumn’s essence with rich apple cider and warm spices, perfect for any fall gathering.
Effortless Baking: With simple steps and minimal fuss, even novice bakers can achieve gorgeous results that impress!
Gourmet Touch: The use of brown butter enhances the flavor, making these cookies indulgent and truly special.
Texture Bliss: Enjoy the perfect blend of soft, cake-like interior and a slight crunch from the powdered sugar coating.
Versatile Treat: Customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips, ensuring everyone finds their favorite version!
Pair these delightful cookies with a hot cup of cider for the ultimate cozy experience.

Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough

Apple Cider – Provides the primary flavor profile; ensure that it is reduced to concentrate the taste.
Butter – Adds richness and flavor; using brown butter gives a nutty aroma that enhances the cookies.
Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a delicious caramel-like sweetness, making each bite divine.
Eggs – Binds ingredients and helps create a soft, cake-like texture; essential for the cookie’s integrity.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor, adding a warm undertone to the cookies.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure, ensuring the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; an essential ingredient for that cozy, seasonal flavor.
Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps cookies rise, creating the perfect soft texture.
Ground Ginger, Cardamom, Nutmeg – Complements the apple cider beautifully with seasonal spices, adding depth to the flavor.

For Coating

Granulated Sugar – Creates a slight crunch on the outside; perfect for rolling the dough balls.
Powdered Sugar – Coats the cookies, creating the signature crinkle effect that makes them visually appealing.

For Balancing Flavor

Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.

Bring the delightful taste of Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies to your kitchen this autumn!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Apple Cider
In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of apple cider to a boil over medium heat. Allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until it reduces to about ¼ cup. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once reduced, set the cider aside to cool completely while you proceed with your cookie preparation.

Step 2: Make Brown Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt ½ cup of butter over medium heat. Keep cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly, then transfer to a bowl and chill in the refrigerator until it thickens slightly—this should take about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Cream Ingredients
Once your brown butter is slightly thickened, use an electric mixer to beat it with 1 cup of brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add in the 2 eggs, the cooled reduced apple cider, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon of ground cardamom, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. This blend of dry ingredients will ensure your Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies have the perfect rise and flavor.

Step 5: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet batter, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; stop as soon as there are no dry spots. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky, embodying the warm flavors of autumn.

Step 6: Chill Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial for your cookies’ texture, helping them maintain shape and achieve that desirable crinkle finish when baked.

Step 7: Shape Cookies
Once the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a cookie scoop or your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. In two separate shallow bowls, place granulated sugar in one and powdered sugar in the other. Roll each dough ball first in granulated sugar then coat thoroughly with powdered sugar for that signature crinkle look.

Step 8: Bake
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the cookie dough balls about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until the cookies are puffed and the edges are just firm. They will continue to set as they cool, so avoid overbaking for the perfect soft interior.

Step 9: Cool
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This will help them firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cooling process enhances the texture, making your Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies deliciously soft with a delightful crinkle exterior.

What to Serve with Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies?

Indulge in the cozy warmth of autumn by complementing your cookies with delightful pairings that elevate your experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the warm spices of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast.
Hot Apple Cider: Sipping on warm spiced apple cider enhances the experience, enveloping you in seasonal flavors with every bite.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over the cookies for an extra layer of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the apple cider flavor.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enjoy a steaming pumpkin spice latte alongside your cookies for a comforting, fall-inspired feast that warms the soul.
Maple Glazed Pecans: The crunch and sweetness of these pecans complement the soft texture of the cookies while adding a touch of elegance.

Serve these delightful combinations for an unforgettable autumn gathering, sure to impress friends and family alike!

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy sweet, spiced indulgence with ease! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 48 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, ensure the dough is tightly wrapped to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 3 months; simply roll the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, bake the frozen dough balls directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the baking time for freshly baked cookies that taste just as delicious as when they were made!

Expert Tips for Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies

Chill Dough Thoroughly: Ensure the cookie dough is well-chilled for at least 2 hours to prevent spreading and achieve that perfect crinkle texture.
Use Quality Cider: Choose fresh apple cider for a more intense flavor. A reduced, concentrated cider adds depth that elevates your Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies.
Brown the Butter Right: Keep an eye on your butter while it browns; too little time means missing that nutty flavor, while too much could burn it.
Don’t Skip the Sugar Coating: Rolling the dough balls in both granulated and powdered sugar is crucial for creating the beautiful crinkle effect and adding pleasing texture.
Adjust Baking Time: If using dark baking sheets, be mindful to adjust baking time. They may cause cookies to brown too quickly, potentially affecting texture.
Try Spice Variations: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like allspice or nutmeg to customize the flavor profile of these delightful cookies.

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies

Airtight Container: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they are well-covered to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.

Cookie Dough: The dough can be frozen as well! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to customize your Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies and make them uniquely yours!

Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. It complements the sweetness beautifully and enhances the cozy feel of autumn.
Chopped Nuts: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and extra flavor. The nuttiness pairs wonderfully with the spices, creating a satisfying texture contrast.
Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ cup of semisweet or white chocolate chips for a rich, sweet surprise. They’re a great way to balance the warm spices and will please chocolate lovers in the crowd.
Dried Fruit: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a hint of tartness. The addition of dried fruits not only boosts fiber but also adds a chewy texture that complements the crinkle cookies.
Different Juices: Substitute apple cider with reduced orange juice or pear juice to create a different flavor profile for your cookies. It’s an inviting option that brings a refreshing twist to this classic treat.
Spiced Optional: Experiment with a dash of cloves or allspice to enhance the warm, cozy feel of your cookies further. A little added spice transforms the flavor profile into something truly festive!
Add a Frosting: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar icing on top for extra sweetness. Just mix powdered sugar with a little milk or apple cider until it reaches your desired consistency.
Flavoring Extracts: Try substituting vanilla extract for almond or maple extract to give your cookies a unique twist. These extracts add a depth of flavor that complements the warm notes of the spices beautifully.

Embrace the joy of cooking and make these Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies your own! For more delightful cookie ideas, check out my Fudgy Cookies Cream or Kitchen Sink Cookies for a treat that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!

Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of apple cider should I use?
Absolutely! Using fresh, high-quality apple cider is key. Look for cider that’s unfiltered and free of preservatives to capture that vibrant autumn flavor. Some brands also offer a spiced variety, which can add an extra layer of warmth to your cookies. Avoid using apple juice, as it lacks the depth of flavor needed for this recipe.

How do I store leftover cookies, and how long will they last?
You can keep your Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They’ll stay soft and delicious! If you prefer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, but be sure they’re well-covered to prevent drying out. Just remember, the sooner they’re eaten, the better they taste!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze baked cookies, line them on a baking sheet in a single layer and pop them in the freezer until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours. They’ll taste just as delightful as the day they were baked!

Is it okay to make the dough ahead of time?
Very much so! You can prepare the cookie dough and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before storing it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking to ensure optimal texture and flavor when you bake your cookies.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, don’t worry! There are a couple of reasons this can happen. Firstly, ensure you chill your dough for at least 2 hours before shaping; this helps maintain their structure. Secondly, if your oven temperature is too low, the cookies might spread before they set. Using an oven thermometer can help ensure that the temperature is accurate!

Are these cookies pet-friendly?
Not at all! Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies contain ingredients like sugar and butter, which aren’t suitable for pets. Additionally, avoid any spices such as nutmeg, as they can be toxic to animals. It’s always best to keep human treats away from our furry friends for their health and safety.