Name: Soft and Chewy Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies for Fall Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 160 min
Ingredients: 0.25 cups Apple Cider (Reduced to intesify flavor); 0.5 cups Butter (Use brown butter for enhanced flavor); 0.75 cups Brown Sugar; 2 large Eggs (Binds ingredients); 1 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Enhances overall flavor); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1.5 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (Adds warmth); 1 teaspoons Baking Powder (Leavens the cookies); 1 teaspoons Ground Ginger; 0.5 teaspoons Ground Cardamom; 0.5 teaspoons Ground Nutmeg; 0.5 teaspoons Salt (Balances sweetness); 0.25 cups Granulated Sugar; 0.5 cups Powdered Sugar (Creates the crinkle appearance)

As the leaves begin to turn and the air carries a hint of crispness, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. These delectable Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies are my secret weapon for celebrating the flavors of fall. With a delightful chewiness and hints of warm spices, each bite encapsulates the essence of the season. The surprise of brown butter adds a nutty depth that elevates these cookies to a whole new level! Not only are they quick to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings, but they also serve as a crowd-pleaser that friends and family will rave about. Are you ready to transform your fall baking? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why are these cookies a fall favorite?

Irresistible Flavor: The rich apple cider and warm spices create a taste that embodies the essence of fall.
Brown Butter Magic: Adding brown butter elevates these cookies with a nutty aroma that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for those busy days, providing a delightful homemade treat in no time.
Versatile Options: Customize your cookies by adding nuts or chocolate chips, or even try a delicious maple syrup twist!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies will surely impress friends and family, making you the star baker. For more seasonal delights, check out my Crisp Apple Cranberry salad to complement your treats!

Apple Cider Crinkle Cookie Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create these delightful cookies bursting with autumn flavor!

For the Batter

Apple Cider – Concentrated flavor; reduce to ¼ cup to intensify the apple taste for these delicious Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies.
Butter (½ cup) – Provides moisture and helps create a soft texture; use brown butter for enhanced flavor.
Brown Sugar (¾ cup) – Adds moisture and depth of flavor.
Eggs (2 large) – Binds ingredients and contributes to leavening.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances overall flavor with warmth.
All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Provides structure for the cookies.
Ground Cinnamon (1 ½ teaspoons) – Adds warmth and spice, invoking fall vibes.
Baking Powder (1 teaspoon) – Leavens the cookies for a soft texture.
Ground Ginger (1 teaspoon) – Adds delightful spiciness and warmth.
Ground Cardamom (½ teaspoon) – Introduces a unique aromatic flavor.
Ground Nutmeg (½ teaspoon) – Complements the cinnamon and adds depth.
Salt (½ teaspoon) – Balances sweetness for a well-rounded taste.

For the Coating

Granulated Sugar (¼ cup) – Enhances sweetness and provides crunch.
Powdered Sugar (½ cup) – Creates the classic crinkle appearance when baked.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Reduce Cider
Begin by pouring your apple cider into a saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces down to ¼ cup. Once reduced, remove it from the heat and allow the cider to cool completely while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare Brown Butter
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Continue to cook until the butter turns a golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before placing it in the refrigerator to solidify just enough, about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
While the brown butter is cooling, grab a mixing bowl and combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps. This step will help create the perfect texture for your apple cider crinkle cookies.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the cooled brown butter together with the brown sugar until fluffy and light, around 2–3 minutes. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then blend in the vanilla extract for enhanced flavor, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the reduced apple cider to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until combined. Then, slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your apple cider crinkle cookies soft and chewy.

Step 6: Chill Dough
Once your cookie dough is prepared, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. This cooling step is crucial for enhancing the flavors and preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Step 7: Form Cookies
After chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out the chilled dough and form it into small balls, roughly one-inch in diameter. Roll each ball first in granulated sugar and then in powdered sugar for that classic crinkle appearance.

Step 8: Bake
Arrange the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cookies are puffed up. You’ll want them to look slightly underbaked for the perfect soft texture.

Step 9: Cool
Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period will allow them to set before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the delightful aroma of your freshly baked apple cider crinkle cookies!

Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies, infusing them with your personal touch for an even more delightful experience!

Maple Twist: Substitute apple cider with maple syrup for a warm, sweet splash of flavor, evoking cozy mornings.
Nutty Add-In: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a heartwarming nutty flavor that complements the season.
Choco Burst: Add white or dark chocolate chips; their rich taste brilliantly balances the spices, making for a decadent treat.
Cinnamon Swirl: Sprinkle extra cinnamon into the dough for an intense aromatic experience or even a cinnamon sugar topping!
Ginger Spice: Increase the ground ginger to 1 ½ teaspoons for a spicier kick that adds depth and warmth to every bite.
Gluten-Free Swap: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies accessible for everyone without losing that delightful chewiness.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine, keeping all the deliciousness intact while accommodating lactose intolerance.
Add Fruits: Mix in diced dried apples or raisins for a chew and fruity element reminiscent of a fall harvest, enhancing the cookie’s texture.

These variations will take your Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies to new flavor heights, making them even more irresistible! For a delightful apple-themed dessert, consider pairing them with my Apple Crunch Salad for a complete fall feast that everyone will love!

Expert Tips for Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies

Perfectly Brown Butter: Ensure your butter is browned but not burnt. It should be a beautiful golden color with a nutty aroma to enhance the flavor in your cookies.
Chill for Success: Never skip chilling the dough! This helps develop flavors and ensures your apple cider crinkle cookies don’t spread too thin during baking.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies—they should be slightly underbaked when you take them out. They’ll continue to set on the baking sheet for that chewy perfection.
Prevent Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, detracting from the desired soft and chewy texture.
Sugar Coating Tips: Roll the dough balls in both granulated and powdered sugar for that classic crinkle look and a delightful sweetness that complements the apple cider flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. Additionally, the reduced apple cider can be made and refrigerated for up to one week ahead, ensuring you have a concentrated flavor ready to go. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and roll the cookie dough into balls and coat them in sugar before baking for 8-10 minutes until golden and puffed. With this prep, you can enjoy deliciously fresh cookies anytime!

Storage Tips for Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their delicious chewiness.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies to keep them fresh longer; they’ll stay good for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: To bring back that freshly baked taste, microwave cookies for a few seconds or place them in a warm oven (300°F or 150°C) for 5 minutes. Enjoy your Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies!

What to Serve with Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies

As the comforting warmth of freshly baked cookies fills your home, it’s the perfect time to create a delightful spread that enhances this sweet treat.

Warm Spiced Apple Cider: This aromatic drink mirrors the flavors in the cookies, creating a harmonious pairing that warms the soul. Picture yourself snuggled up with a mug, feeling the gentle warmth soothe you on a crisp autumn evening.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness of vanilla ice cream contrasts with the chewy texture of the cookies, offering the bliss of a delicious dessert sundae. Add some caramel drizzle for extra indulgence!
Pumpkin Pie: Celebrate fall flavors with this classic dessert. The spices in pumpkin pie beautifully complement the warm apple spices in the cookies, making it a perfect harvest experience.
Maple Pecan Pie Bars: These bars bring a nutty richness that pairs wonderfully with the sweet apple cider notes. The crunchy texture adds delightful contrast to the soft, chewy cookies.
Fresh Pear Salad: A refreshing salad with sliced pears, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the cookies. It adds a crunchy, fresh element to your dessert table.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai blend seamlessly with the flavors of the cookies, making this tea a cozy choice. Enjoy a comforting cup while sipping and nibbling for a delightful experience.
Caramel Drizzle: A simple yet decadent addition, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the cookies or serve it on the side for dipping. This sweet touch enhances the flavors and adds an irresistible richness.
Roasted Cinnamon Apples: This warm side dish enhances the cookie’s apple flavor while providing a comforting, homey vibe. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert option.
Cranberry Sauce: A tangy-sweet cranberry sauce served alongside the cookies beautifully contrasts the rich flavors, making it an exciting and pleasing addition to any festive table.
Chardonnay: A glass of light, fruity Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with the cookies, enhancing their warm, spiced notes while providing a refreshing balance.

Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best apple cider for the cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting apple cider, look for one that is 100% pure and made from fresh, unprocessed apples. The deeper the color, the richer the flavor will be in your Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies. Avoid options with added sugars or preservatives, which can impact the taste. If you can, buy local cider—it really offers that authentic fall flavor!

How should I store my cookies, and how long do they last?
Very important! Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. They will stay soft and chewy, perfect for snacking! If you want them to last a bit longer, refrigerating them can extend their freshness up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Can I freeze the Apple Cider Crinkle Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze them, first, allow the baked cookies to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, simply thaw them at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up!

What should I do if the cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, don’t worry! It’s usually due to either the dough being too warm or not chilled enough. To fix this, I recommend chilling the dough for an additional 30 minutes. If you’re still experiencing spreading, it might help to add an extra tablespoon of flour in your next batch for a firmer texture. Keep experimenting until you find just the right balance!

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Yes, keep in mind that while these cookies are delightful, they contain common allergens like eggs and gluten. If you’re baking for others, it’s wise to check if anyone has allergies. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also modify the recipe by using a dairy-free butter substitute for those avoiding dairy products.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the reduced cider and chill the dough in advance. The apple cider can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. Chilling the dough, however, is essential, so be sure to give yourself at least 2 hours before baking. If you’re planning a gathering, you can have everything ready ahead of time and bake fresh cookies when your guests arrive for the ultimate treat!