Name: Apple Cider Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups apple cider (reduced to ¼ cup); 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Optional: ½ tsp apple pie spice or ground nutmeg; Optional: ¼ cup cinnamon sugar (for rolling dough)

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Apple cider cookies are soft, chewy, and full of cozy fall flavor. With hints of warm cinnamon, tangy apple cider, and a tender texture, these cookies are perfect for enjoying with a hot drink or sharing during the holidays. They capture all the best parts of apple season in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these cookies because they’re nostalgic, comforting, and just the right mix of sweet and spiced. The apple cider gives them a deep, concentrated apple flavor, while the cinnamon sugar coating adds a delightful crunch. They’re great for gatherings, lunchbox treats, or anytime I want to bring a little autumn magic into my kitchen. Apple Cider Cookies

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

apple cider (reduced for concentrated flavor)
all-purpose flour
baking soda
baking powder
salt
ground cinnamon
unsalted butter (softened)
brown sugar
granulated sugar
egg
vanilla extract
optional: apple pie spice or nutmeg for extra warmth
optional: cinnamon sugar (for rolling the dough)

Directions

I pour the apple cider into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to a thick syrup (about 1/4 cup). I let it cool.
In a bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
In a large mixing bowl, I cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
I beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and the cooled apple cider reduction.
I slowly mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
I chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
I scoop and roll the dough into balls, then roll them in cinnamon sugar (if using).
I bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers are soft.
I let them cool slightly on the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 cookies, depending on the size. It takes 20 minutes to prep, 30 minutes to chill, and about 10–12 minutes to bake—so I usually have them ready in just over an hour.

Variations

Sometimes I add finely diced dried apples for more texture, or swap the cinnamon sugar coating with a drizzle of apple cider glaze. For a richer flavor, I use dark brown sugar or a touch of molasses. I’ve also made sandwich cookies by spreading spiced cream cheese frosting between two cookies.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They also freeze well—either as dough balls or fully baked cookies. To enjoy warm, I microwave them for 10–15 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven softness. Apple Cider Cookies

FAQs

Why reduce the apple cider?

Reducing the cider intensifies the flavor without adding too much liquid. It gives the cookies that signature apple taste.

Can I skip the chilling step?

I recommend chilling the dough—it keeps the cookies from spreading too much and helps develop the flavor.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, I use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture stays soft and chewy with just a slight difference.

What’s the best apple cider to use?

I prefer fresh, unfiltered apple cider (not apple juice). It has more depth and a true apple flavor.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. I roll the dough into balls, freeze on a tray, then store in a bag. I bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the bake time.

Conclusion

Apple cider cookies are one of my favorite fall-inspired treats. With their soft centers, spiced flavor, and sweet apple notes, they bring warmth and comfort to any occasion. Whether I’m baking for a crowd or just enjoying a quiet afternoon, these cookies always deliver a perfect bite of cozy.