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Here is what you need for caramel apple cider cookies: - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature - 1 cup packed brown sugar - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1 large egg, at room temperature - 2 tablespoons apple cider - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 cup caramel bits or chopped soft caramel candy - Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans These ingredients bring together the flavors of fall in every bite. The butter makes the cookies soft, while the sugars add sweetness. The apple cider gives a nice tang, and the spices create warmth. If you like, add nuts for a crunchy twist. To make these cookies, gather these tools: - Mixing bowls - Electric mixer - Cookie scoop or tablespoon - Baking sheet - Parchment paper You need these items to mix, scoop, and bake your cookies. The parchment paper helps the cookies not stick to the pan. - Prep Time: 20 minutes - Total Time: 30 minutes - Servings: Approximately 24 cookies You can whip up these cookies in no time. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a tasty treat to enjoy. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. - Cream the butter and sugars until fluffy. - Incorporate the egg, apple cider, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. - Prepare the dry ingredients. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. - Gradually add the dry mix to the creamed mixture. Stir gently until just combined. - Fold in caramel bits and nuts, if using. Make sure they are evenly mixed in. Now you're ready to scoop the dough and bake those delicious caramel apple cider cookies! - Ensure the butter is at room temperature. Room temperature butter blends well with sugar, creating a fluffy mix. It helps the cookies rise and stay soft. - Avoid overmixing the dough. Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, which we want to avoid. - For soft and chewy cookies, use brown sugar. Brown sugar adds moisture, giving cookies their chewy texture. - To achieve a crisp edge, bake until edges are light golden. The centers can be slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool. - Alternatives for spices include ginger or cloves. These can add unique flavors that fit the fall theme. - Using different types of caramel can change the taste. Try sea salt caramel for a sweet and salty twist. You can check the full recipe to explore these tips in action! {{image_4}} You can make these cookies gluten-free by swapping regular flour with a gluten-free blend. Most blends work well for baking. Look for ones that have xanthan gum. This helps mimic the texture of wheat flour. To make these cookies vegan, use plant-based butter instead of regular butter. You can also replace the egg with a flaxseed egg or applesauce. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes. This will help bind the cookies without eggs. If you love chocolate, add chocolate chips or chunks to the dough. It adds a rich flavor and makes the cookies even more special. Mix in half a cup of chocolate chips when you fold in the caramel. The warm chocolate will melt slightly, making each bite delightful. For the Full Recipe, check out the detailed instructions to bake these tasty treats! To keep your cookies fresh at room temperature, place them in an airtight container. This helps maintain moisture and flavor. You can store them for up to a week this way. If you prefer to refrigerate them, a container will still work. The cookies can last about two weeks in the fridge. However, they may lose some of their original texture. You can freeze unbaked cookie dough for future baking. Just scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze the balls for about two hours until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, no need to thaw! Just bake them for an extra minute or two. To thaw baked cookies, take them out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps them regain their softness. You can also warm them gently in the microwave for a few seconds. At room temperature, your caramel apple cider cookies will remain tasty for about one week. Keep an eye out for signs of spoilage. If they start to harden or the smell changes, it's time to toss them. Proper storage is key to enjoying every bite! Yes, you can easily make these cookies without nuts. Just skip the nuts in the recipe. Your cookies will still taste great! If you want some crunch, try adding oats or more caramel bits. This keeps the texture fun while keeping it nut-free. To prevent cookies from spreading, keep the dough cold. After mixing, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape. Also, make sure your oven is preheated properly. Bake them on parchment paper, which helps them stay in place while baking. If you don’t have apple cider, you can use apple juice or even white grape juice. Both options give a sweet flavor. You can also add a splash of vinegar for a bit of tang. This helps mimic the taste of apple cider in your cookies. You can easily make delicious cookies with just a few simple steps. We covered the ingredients needed, the essential equipment, and provided clear instructions. Remember to keep your butter soft and avoid overmixing for the best texture. Feel free to try various options, like gluten-free or vegan versions. Storing cookies properly ensures they stay fresh longer. With these tips, you can enjoy baking and sharing these treats. Happy baking!

Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with these delicious Caramel Apple Cider Cookies! Soft, chewy, and packed with caramel bits, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Follow our easy step-by-step recipe to create a batch of about 24 scrumptious cookies in just 30 minutes. Click through to explore the full recipe and tips for a delightful presentation that will leave everyone wanting more!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg, at room temperature

2 tablespoons apple cider

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup caramel bits or chopped soft caramel candy

Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

    Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed for 3-5 minutes until it becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color.

      Incorporate the Egg and Flavorings: Add in the egg, followed by the apple cider and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until all the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.

        Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.

          Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

            Fold in the Caramel and Nuts: Using a spatula, gently fold in the caramel bits and, if desired, the chopped walnuts or pecans. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough without overworking it.

              Scoop the Dough: Scoop rounded balls of dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to allow about 2 inches of space between each ball to facilitate spreading during baking.

                Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. The centers may appear slightly underbaked; they will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

                  Cool the Cookies: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: Approximately 24 cookies

                      - Presentation Tips: For an enticing presentation, arrange the cookies on a decorative platter. Consider drizzling some melted caramel on top for an indulgent touch, and a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely finish that enhances their visual appeal!