Apple Cider Caramel Cookies Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, comforting treat that perfectly captures the essence of autumn, you’re going to adore these Amazing Apple Cider Caramel Cookies. This recipe is truly A 1 in 100 Fall Delight, blending the rich, buttery sweetness of caramel with the nostalgic, tangy charm of apple cider. Each bite delights with a tender crumb infused with that reduced cider’s unique depth, making it a standout fall favorite that you’ll want to bake again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is delightfully straightforward. Each item plays a crucial role, from the creamy butter lending softness, to the caramel bits adding gooey pockets of sweetness, and the reduced apple cider brightening up the whole cookie with a subtle fruity zing.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, creamy base for tender cookies.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens while helping create a delicate, chewy texture.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add moisture and structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances warmth and depth of flavor.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for your cookie’s perfect structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Gives a gentle lift and helps with spread.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and elevates flavors.
• 1 cup apple cider, reduced to 1/4 cup: Concentrates the cider’s flavor for an extraordinary twist.
• 1 cup caramel bits or chopped soft caramels: Melt into chewy, dreamy pockets of caramel.
• 1/2 cup extra granulated sugar for rolling (optional): Adds a pretty, crunchy coating on the outside.

How to Make Apple Cider Caramel Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Begin by simmering 1 cup of apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reduces down to 1/4 cup. This process concentrates the flavors into a rich, syrupy essence that infuses the cookies with irresistible fall aroma and taste. Once reduced, set it aside to cool completely before adding to your dough.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until light, fluffy, and pale. This step is key to creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture and ensures your cookies will be perfectly tender with just the right amount of sweetness.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat the eggs in one at a time, fully incorporating each to keep the batter smooth. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. These ingredients add moisture and build the foundation for the flavors to shine bright in your final cookie.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. This dry mix will balance the wet ingredients, creating a smooth dough that’s easy to handle and baked to perfection.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be gentle here to avoid over-mixing, which can make the cookies tough.

Step 6: Fold in Reduced Cider and Caramel

Now for the magic: stir in the cooled reduced apple cider along with the caramel bits or chopped soft caramels. These add moist chewiness and bursts of incredible caramel flavor, making each bite oh-so-special.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Cover and chill your dough for at least 30 minutes. This rest time helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too thin during baking, so you get those perfect soft-centered delights every time.

Step 8: Prepare to Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup.

Step 9: Roll the Cookies

If you like, pour 1/2 cup extra granulated sugar into a shallow bowl. Scoop 1-inch balls of dough and roll them in the sugar for a lovely sparkling exterior that adds a bit of crunch to complement the soft interior.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Place the sugared dough balls about 2 inches apart on your baking sheets. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look set. The result? An A 1 in 100 Fall Delight that’s soft, caramel-filled, and bursting with apple cider goodness.

How to Serve Apple Cider Caramel Recipe

Garnishes

Top your cookies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle them with a simple caramel sauce for an extra elegant touch. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also enhance the caramel flavor and deepen the apple cider notes.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of spiced cider or your favorite chai latte. The spicy warm drinks pair perfectly with these sweet, chewy cookies, making every bite a cozy experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this A 1 in 100 Fall Delight into a dessert platter centerpiece by layering the cookies with apple slices and small bowls of salted caramel sauce. For a festive touch, arrange them with cinnamon sticks and fresh autumn leaves for an irresistible fall-themed treat display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This ensures they retain their soft texture and rich flavor without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking by placing them on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To refresh leftovers, reheat cookies in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 5 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive that soft, chewy texture and warm caramel gooeyness.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramel bits?

While caramel bits are best for even distribution and texture, you can swirl in store-bought caramel sauce after mixing the dough or drizzle it over baked cookies for a rich finish. Just be careful not to add too much, or the dough might get too sticky.

Is it necessary to reduce the apple cider?

Reducing the cider intensifies its flavor and removes excess moisture, which is key to achieving that distinct taste without making the cookies soggy. It’s a simple step worth the extra 15–20 minutes.

Can I substitute apple cider with something else?

You can experiment with pear or cranberry juice reduced in the same way for a fun twist, but the classic flavor that makes this an A 1 in 100 Fall Delight is best captured by apple cider.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much while baking?

Chilling the dough is essential here. The cold dough results in cookies holding their shape better and baking up with thick, soft centers.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free as written. However, swapping in a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend can work well—just be sure to adjust baking time as needed.

Final Thoughts

If fall had a flavor, this Amazing Apple Cider Caramel Cookie recipe would be it—truly A 1 in 100 Fall Delight. Whether you’re baking for guests, gifting friends, or simply treating yourself, these cookies bring cozy warmth and joy with every bite. I can’t wait for you to try them and make them your new seasonal favorite!

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