Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

Caramel Apple Cider Cookies are the perfect treat to welcome the fall season. These delightful cookies combine the warm flavors of apple cider with sweet caramel bits, resulting in a soft and chewy texture that everyone will love. Ideal for cozy gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, these cookies stand out with their unique taste and comforting aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these delicious cookies.
• Perfect for Fall: The apple cider mix adds a seasonal twist that makes these cookies ideal for autumn festivities.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion—from family gatherings to holiday parties—these cookies are sure to impress.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Each bite is filled with the goodness of caramel and the warmth of spiced apple flavor.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun recipe for kids to help with, making it an enjoyable activity for the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Caramel Apple Cider Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for a smooth cookie dough.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess; having multiple sizes helps in organizing your prep.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking, giving you perfectly shaped treats every time.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Caramel Apple Cider Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), room temperature
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 5 packets Alpine spiced apple cider mix, NOT sugar-free (found near the hot chocolate or in coffee aisle)
• 1 large egg
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour, stir, spoon & level
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Filling

• 1 cup Kraft Caramel Bits

How to Make Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. Line half sheet trays with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and apple cider mix using an electric mixer until combined.
1. Add in the egg and vanilla extract.
2. Mix well until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Stir together flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
2. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture.
3. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over-mix.

Step 4: Add Caramel Bits

Gently fold in the caramel bits into your cookie dough.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake Cookies

1. Use a medium (#40) cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons) to portion out balls of dough.
2. Place them onto your lined baking sheets about 3 inches apart; aim for 8 cookies per tray.
3. Bake at 350℉ for 11-12 minutes. Watch closely—do not over-bake! If caramel melts at edges during baking, use a spatula or round cookie cutter to press edges inward while still warm.

Allow cookies to cool on trays until firm enough to transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling.

Enjoy your homemade Caramel Apple Cider Cookies as they fill your kitchen with delightful scents!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

These delightful Caramel Apple Cider Cookies are perfect for any fall occasion. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Pair with hot apple cider for a cozy treat.
• Enjoy alongside a cup of spiced chai tea for added warmth.

As Dessert Toppers

• Crumble cookies over vanilla ice cream for a delicious sundae.
• Use crushed cookies as a topping on caramel-flavored yogurt.

In Gift Baskets

• Include cookies in gift baskets for friends and family during the holidays.
• Wrap individual cookies in cellophane and tie with a ribbon for a sweet treat.

For Cookie Decorating

• Let kids decorate cookies with icing and sprinkles for fun activities.
• Use them as a base for cookie sandwiches filled with frosting or cream cheese.

How to Perfect Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

To achieve the best texture and flavor in your Caramel Apple Cider Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature butter: This helps create a light and fluffy texture when creamed with sugar.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
• Chill the dough if needed: If your kitchen is warm, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can prevent spreading.
• Monitor baking time closely: Bake until the edges are set but still soft in the center for optimal chewy texture.
• Press edges while warm: Gently press the edges inward after baking to maintain their shape, especially if caramel has melted.

Best Side Dishes for Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

These Caramel Apple Cider Cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte: A warm drink that matches perfectly with fall flavors.
2. Creamy Hot Chocolate: Rich and chocolatey, it balances sweetness beautifully.
3. Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: Fresh apples dipped in caramel echo the cookie’s flavor profile.
4. Cheese Platter: A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy brie can create a savory contrast to sweet cookies.
5. Pecan Pie Bars: A nutty dessert that pairs well with the spice notes of apple cider cookies.
6. Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels: Sweet and salty snacks that appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with new recipes. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Caramel Apple Cider Cookies.

• Skipping the room temperature butter: Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Always ensure your butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make cookies tough. Combine ingredients until just mixed for a softer texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can dry out your cookies. Be sure to stir and spoon the flour into your measuring cup, then level it off.
• Ignoring baking times: Overbaking will lead to hard cookies. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they are just set.
• Using expired ingredients: Old baking soda or apple cider mix can affect the flavor and texture. Check expiration dates before you start baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place layers of parchment paper between cookies in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350℉, place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Caramel Apple Cider Cookies special?

Caramel Apple Cider Cookies combine the warm flavors of fall with chewy caramel bits, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

Can I use homemade apple cider instead of the mix?

Yes! You can substitute homemade apple cider, but ensure it’s concentrated enough to give that rich flavor similar to the mix.

How do I customize Caramel Apple Cider Cookies?

You can add nuts like pecans or walnuts or even substitute chocolate chips for caramel bits for a different twist!

Are these cookies suitable for fall celebrations?

Absolutely! These Caramel Apple Cider Cookies are perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or cozy autumn afternoons.

Final Thoughts

These Caramel Apple Cider Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. With their soft and chewy texture paired with warm spiced flavors, they make an excellent treat for any season. Feel free to customize them with your favorite additions like nuts or chocolate chips, and enjoy sharing this delightful recipe with friends and family!