Caramel Apple Cider Cookies – Perfect Fall Recipe

Caramel Apple Cider Cookies combine the sweet, spiced flavor of apple cider with rich caramel bits, creating a soft and chewy treat perfect for fall. These cookies are quick to make, full of comforting flavors, and a delightful way to enjoy autumn in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love These Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

These Caramel Apple Cider Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and spice. They come together easily with minimal ingredients and have a chewy texture thanks to the caramel bits. The use of apple cider mix gives the cookies a unique, seasonal flavor, making them an ideal choice for fall. With just a few simple ingredients, you can bake a batch of cookies that will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible Caramel Apple Cider Cookies:

• Unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture, making the cookies soft.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the flavors.
• Apple cider drink mix: Gives the cookies that signature apple and spice flavor.
• Large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and flavor profile.
• All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the dough.
• Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly.
• Baking powder: Provides additional lift and fluffiness.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice, complementing the apple flavor.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness.
• Kraft caramel bits: The star ingredient, these bits create pockets of gooey caramel throughout the cookies.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make substitutions, here are a few ideas:
• Butter: For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter.
• Granulated sugar: You can swap this for coconut sugar or brown sugar for a more molasses-like flavor.
• Apple cider drink mix: If you don’t have this specific mix, you can substitute with apple pie spice and a bit of apple juice concentrate.
• Kraft caramel bits: If you can’t find these, chopped soft caramels will work just as well, though they may need to be unwrapped.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Caramel Apple Cider Cookies is easy and fun. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup.
2. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and apple cider drink mix. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix well until fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Gently fold in the caramel bits, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Using a medium cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons), drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart.
8. Bake for 11-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden around the edges. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and chewy.
9. After baking, use a spatula or round cookie cutter to gently press the edges of the cookies inward if they’ve spread too much. Let the cookies cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overbake: The key to soft Caramel Apple Cider Cookies is to remove them from the oven when they’re just lightly golden. If you bake them too long, they’ll become crisp.
• Use parchment paper or silicone mats: These prevent the caramel bits from sticking to the pan and make cleanup a breeze.
• Press the cookies: If you notice the cookies spreading too much or the caramel melting out, use a cookie cutter or spatula to gently reshape them while they’re still warm.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These Caramel Apple Cider Cookies are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of beverages or enjoyed with different twists:

• Pair with a hot drink: These cookies go wonderfully with a warm mug of apple cider or pumpkin spice latte.
• Make them gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those with dietary restrictions.
• Add a glaze: Drizzle with a simple caramel or cream cheese glaze to make them extra indulgent.
• Store leftovers: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the dough balls for later use.

Health Benefits and Fall Vibes

These Caramel Apple Cider Cookies are a perfect treat to enjoy during the fall season. While they’re not necessarily “healthy,” you can enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The apple cider mix provides some vitamin C, and cinnamon is known for its potential antioxidant properties. These cookies are a delightful way to embrace the cozy, comforting flavors of autumn.

Conclusion

These Caramel Apple Cider Cookies are a must-try fall treat, combining the comforting flavors of apple cider and caramel in every chewy bite. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, they’re the perfect dessert for any autumn gathering or a cozy day at home. Whether you enjoy them with a hot drink or share them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Enjoy baking and savoring this sweet, spiced treat that embodies the essence of fall!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

More Relevant Recipes

• Apple Crisp Bites: These bite-sized apple crisp treats are a perfect fall snack. With a delicious blend of cinnamon and apples, they offer the same comforting flavors as Caramel Apple Cider Cookies in a fun, mini version. Great for sharing at parties or enjoying with a cup of cider!
• Caramel Apple Cookies: A fantastic alternative to Caramel Apple Cider Cookies, these soft cookies are packed with juicy apples and rich caramel bits. They deliver a delicious combination of sweet and tart flavors, making them an ideal autumn treat.
• Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes: If you’re looking for another fall-inspired dessert, these Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes are a must-try! They combine the flavors of pumpkin and spice with a creamy, indulgent topping, offering a comforting, seasonal alternative to Caramel Apple Cider Cookies.

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