Name: Delightful Apple Cookies with Cinnamon for Fall Evenings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour (For a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free flour blend.); 1 teaspoon Baking soda (Ensure it's fresh for the best rise.); 2 teaspoons Cinnamon (Substitute with pumpkin spice for a unique twist.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Use sea salt for a more gourmet experience.); 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (Can be swapped with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.); 3/4 cup Brown sugar (Light brown sugar works just as well as dark.); 1/2 cup Granulated sugar (Feel free to reduce for less sweetness.); 1 large Egg (A flax egg is a great vegan alternative.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Pure vanilla is recommended for the best taste.); 2 cups Diced apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are ideal.); 1 cup Powdered sugar (Sifting ensures a smooth drizzle.); 2 tablespoons Milk (Use non-dairy milk if preferred.)

As I ambled through my local farmer’s market, the vibrant autumn apples beckoned, their sweet aromas filling the air. Inspired by the season's bounty, I decided to whip up a batch of Soft & Chewy Apple Cookies with Cinnamon Glaze. These delightful treats are a celebration of fall, combining soft, tender centers with a touch of crispness around the edges, making them perfect for any gathering. Not only are they quick and easy to prepare, but they also transform simple apples into a cozy dessert that warms the heart and soul. Imagine serving these gems alongside a steaming cup of tea or sharing them with loved ones during cool evenings. Are you ready to dive into a baking adventure that promises sweetness and satisfaction? Let’s get started!

Why are these Apple Cookies irresistible?

Sublime texture: These cookies are soft and chewy, reminiscent of a warm apple pie, with a slight crispness on the edges.

Easy recipe: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have fresh-baked cookies in no time, perfect for a cozy autumn treat.

Unforgettable flavor: The sweet apples combined with cinnamon create a harmonious taste, making these cookies a hit at gatherings or just for your family.

Versatile delights: Add nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor, or enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.

Perfect pairings: Serve these apple cookies with a warm cup of tea, cider, or coffee to elevate your snack game, just like my Eggnog Cookies Soft.

Perfect storage: These cookies also store beautifully, maintaining their deliciousness for days—just be sure to keep them in an airtight container!

Ingredients
• • Apple Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough

All-purpose Flour – Forms the base of the cookie; for a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it's fresh for the best rise.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; substitute with pumpkin spice for a unique twist.
Salt – Enhances flavor balance; use sea salt for a more gourmet experience.
Unsalted Butter – Provides a soft and chewy texture; can be swapped with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and depth; light brown sugar works just as well as dark.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; feel free to reduce for less sweetness.
Egg – Binds the dough together; a flax egg is a great vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a sweet aromatic flavor; pure vanilla is recommended for the best taste.
Diced Apples – Gives freshness and tenderness; Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are ideal; avoid using applesauce for texture.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze; sifting ensures a smooth drizzle.
Milk – Helps achieve the desired glaze consistency; use non-dairy milk if preferred.

Creating these Apple Cookies brings the essence of fall right into your kitchen, making each bite a delightful experience to savor!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft & Chewy Apple Cookies with Cinnamon Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your cookie dough. Line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking. This step is crucial as it helps the cookies rise beautifully, giving them that perfect soft and chewy texture we love in apple cookies.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Take a moment to enjoy the aromatic scent of cinnamon as it fills the air. This blend of dry ingredients helps create the structure and flavor for your delicious apple cookies.

Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it's light and fluffy, roughly 2-3 minutes. The mixture should appear pale and well-combined, indicating it's aerated and ready to hold all those delightful flavors of our apple cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla
Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture until smooth and fully incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. This adds the necessary binding while infusing the mixture with sweet, aromatic notes that will enhance the taste of your cookies.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until a smooth dough forms. Take care not to overmix; a few flour streaks are fine. This step is where the heart of your apple cookies comes together, and you can almost taste the warmth of fall in the air.

Step 6: Fold in Diced Apples
Carefully fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough without breaking them down. The apples will provide both texture and a burst of fruity flavor in each bite. This is also the time to consider adding any optional ingredients like nuts or dried fruits if desired.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them two inches apart to allow for spreading. The cookie dough should look generous and rounded, ready to transform into the soft and chewy apple cookies you are eagerly anticipating.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown while the centers remain slightly soft. You can tell they’re done when you see the edges set but the middle may still look a bit underbaked—this ensures that chewy texture we love.

Step 9: Cool on Wire Rack
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up a little before they are moved, preventing any breakage. You’ll love watching them cool and firm up into delightful soft and chewy apple creations.

Step 10: Prepare the Cinnamon Glaze
While the cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar and a splash of milk in a small bowl to create a smooth glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or sugar as needed. Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle this sweet cinnamon glaze over your apple cookies for an extra touch of deliciousness.

Apple Cookies: Fun Variations to Try

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful apple cookies to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the cookies. Their rich flavor enhances the overall experience, making every bite an adventure.
Fruity Twist: Mix in raisins or dried cranberries for a burst of chewy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the apples. This extra layer of flavor offers a lovely contrast that keeps the cookies interesting.
Spicy Kick: Experiment with warming spices like nutmeg or ground ginger to create a spiced variation. These additions evoke cozy memories of fall and will make your kitchen smell irresistibly inviting.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version without sacrificing taste or texture. The hint of coconut will add an enticing tropical twist to your cookies!
Gluten-Free Goodness: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these apple cookies accessible for everyone. They will still be soft and chewy, ensuring nobody misses out on this delightful treat.
Icing Options: For a fun change, top with a caramel sauce or chocolate drizzle instead of the cinnamon glaze. Imagine the irresistible combination of chocolate and apple in each cookie!
Savory Style: Incorporate a pinch of sea salt on top for a delightful sweet-salty contrast that elevates your cookies to gourmet status. It’s a simple yet sophisticated twist to surprise your taste buds.
Flavorful Enhancements: Consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing zing that brightens up the flavors. This subtle twist transforms the profile of your cookies beautifully.

Feel free to experiment with these variations to make your apple cookies truly your own! And if you're in the mood for more delightful seasonal treats, check out my Matcha Cookies Soft for a unique flavor adventure or the cozy warmth of Mexican Wedding Cookies. Enjoy every bite!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your apple cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their delightful softness.

Fridge: If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for about a week. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: To freeze apple cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. Enjoy that soft and chewy texture!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft & Chewy Apple Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate to keep the flavors fresh. For easier baking, consider scooping the dough into balls and freezing them on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag—this allows you to bake from frozen, adding only a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Additionally, you can pre-chop your apples and toss them in a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning, keeping their texture intact. When you’re ready to bake, simply drop the dough onto a lined baking sheet and follow the baking instructions for delicious, homemade treats with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Soft & Chewy Apple Cookies with Cinnamon Glaze

Pairing these delightful apple cookies with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience to a whole new level.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Enhances the warm flavors of the cookies, creating a perfect balance of temperatures, making each bite heavenly. Imagine the contrast of warm, chewy cookies against cool, creamy ice cream.
Spiced Herbal Tea: The warmth and hints of cinnamon complement the flavors in the cookies, providing a soothing experience perfect for autumn evenings. A cozy cup will make your snack time even more inviting.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a touch of rich caramel over the cookies adds a luscious sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spiced apple flavor. This indulgence transforms your cookies into an even more decadent treat.
Candied Pecans: Their crunchy texture adds a lovely contrast to the soft cookies while providing an additional nutty flavor profile that enhances the overall experience. Combine these for a satisfying mix of textures.
Warm Apple Cider: The fruity notes resonate with the apple cookies, wrapping you in a cozy embrace, perfect for chilly fall days. Enjoying them together feels like a warm hug for your taste buds.
Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of melted chocolate on top adds a rich sweetness that complements the cinnamon and apple flavors perfectly. This sweet addition can take your cookies from good to extraordinary.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This flavorful drink harmonizes beautifully with the fall-themed cookies, creating a festive vibe that perfects your experience. Each sip blends seamlessly with the cinnamon notes in the cookies.
Gingerbread Cookies: Pairing with these spiced cookies adds another layer of holiday comfort, creating a delightful dessert platter that embodies the spirit of the season. The soft, warm flavors blend wonderfully together.

Expert Tips for Apple Cookies

Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firmer apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to maintain their shape while baking. Avoid soft apples that may turn mushy.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy texture you want.
Chill the Dough: For thicker apple cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. This step can enhance the texture and flavor.
Pre-Toss Apples: For added flavor, consider tossing the diced apples in a bit of cinnamon and sugar before folding them into the dough to enhance the apple cookies' taste.
Freezing Tip: If you want to bake later, scoop the dough onto a tray and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should have golden edges and a soft center, ideal for that perfect soft and chewy bite!

Apple Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of apples are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. These varieties hold their shape while baking, providing that perfect chewy texture. Avoid softer apples that may turn mushy; we want to savor the delightful bites of fruit!

How should I store my apple cookies?
To keep your apple cookies fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If they start to soften, a brief toast in the oven can revive their delightful texture. Alternatively, you can refrigerate them where they’ll stay fresh for about a week.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your apple cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their soft and chewy goodness.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough feels too sticky, don’t worry! Simply add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a manageable consistency. If you prefer, chilling the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes not only can make it easier to handle but also results in thicker, delicious cookies!

Are these apple cookies suitable for people with dietary allergies?
Great question! These apple cookies can easily accommodate various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your baking soda is gluten-free. You can also use dairy-free butter for those avoiding dairy, and a flax egg is a perfect vegan alternative for the egg. Just be sure to double-check ingredient labels for specific allergies!

How long do these cookies last once baked?
These tasty apple cookies will stay fresh for about 3-4 days when stored properly at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they will last about a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture.