Dessert

Apple Cider Spiced Apple Cookies Recipe

ByEthan Lark February 24, 2026February 24, 2026

Introduction

These soft apple cider cookies blend warm spices and fresh apples for a cozy treat perfect for autumn or any time you crave a comforting bite. The light apple cider glaze adds a subtle sweetness that complements the tender cookie beautifully.

A white plate holding a stack of eight round cookies with a light brown, slightly rough and cracked texture, sprinkled with darker brown specks likely cinnamon. Each cookie is drizzled with a creamy white glaze that pools in some crevices and highlights small chunks of pale nuts embedded in the dough. The cookies are piled closely, some overlapping, and the whole scene is set on a soft white marbled surface with a bright, softly lit background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/4 cup apple cider
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup diced apples
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
1–2 tbsp apple cider (for glaze)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with both brown and granulated sugars until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
Step 3: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and apple cider until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
Step 6: Gently fold in the diced apples using a spatula, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
Step 7: Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart, and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Step 8: While the cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider to make a smooth glaze, then drizzle over the cooled cookies.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough before baking.
Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweet and tangy in the cookies.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, start with 1 tablespoon of apple cider and add more only if needed.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave for about 10 seconds to bring back softness before serving.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a stack of soft, round cookies, each about two layers thick. The cookies have a light brown color with darker specks, showing a textured, slightly cracked surface. On top of each cookie, there is a drizzle of smooth white icing that looks glossy and lightly melted, with small chunks of light cream-colored nuts embedded in the cookies' surface. The plate sits on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I substitute the apple cider with something else?

Yes, you can use apple juice or even a light maple syrup as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different. Water can be used in a pinch, but it may reduce the depth of flavor.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely. Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend and ensure your baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly but they’ll still be delicious.