These soft apple cookies are a delightful treat, combining the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon. With a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and juicy bits of apple, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, from a cozy snack to a family gathering.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 12-15 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Servings: About 24 cookies
Ingredients:
- Apples – 2 medium, peeled and finely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups or 250 g)
- All-Purpose Flour – 1 1/2 cups (190 g)
- Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon
- Ground Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon
- Granulated Sugar – 1/2 cup (100 g)
- Brown Sugar – 1/2 cup (100 g)
- Butter – 1/4 cup (55 g), softened
- Egg – 1 large
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
- Optional Add-ins – 1/2 cup (50 g) raisins or chopped nuts
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. - Prepare the Apples:
Peel and finely chop the apples into small pieces. Set them aside. - Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. - Cream Butter and Sugars:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until combined. - Combine Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples and any optional add-ins like raisins or nuts. - Scoop Cookies:
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are set. - Cool:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with powdered sugar for an extra indulgence.
Cooking Tips:
- Apple Preparation: Finely chop the apples to ensure even distribution throughout the cookies.
- Butter Consistency: Make sure the butter is softened but not melted, to achieve the perfect dough texture.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples: Provide fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants, adding both flavor and nutrition to the cookies.
- Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it also helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Dietary Information:
- Contains Dairy: Due to butter.
- Contains Gluten: From flour.
- Can Be Made Dairy-Free: Substitute with a dairy-free butter alternative.
Nutritional Facts (per cookie):
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 9 g
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Soft and Tender: These cookies have a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Bursting with Flavor: The natural sweetness of apples pairs perfectly with warm spices like cinnamon.
- Easy and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for a fast homemade treat.
- Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to elevate the flavor and texture.
Conclusion
These Soft Apple Cookies are a delicious and comforting way to enjoy the natural sweetness of apples with a hint of cinnamon. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging in a cozy snack or bringing them to a gathering, these cookies are sure to impress with their tender texture and delightful flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can use any apple variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp for different sweetness levels. - Can I substitute whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the cookies may be denser. Use a 50/50 mix with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture. - Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, substitute the butter with vegan butter and the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). - How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the regular flour for a gluten-free version. - Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes, adding 1/2 cup of nuts or chocolate chips is a great way to enhance texture and flavor. - How do I store leftover cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for up to 3 months. - Can I use applesauce instead of chopped apples?
Yes, but the texture will change slightly. Use 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce and reduce the butter slightly. - Can these cookies be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead and freeze it. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes. - What if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping the cookies. - How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft. They will firm up as they cool.
Enjoy your Soft Apple Cookies!