Nothing says cozy autumn like the warm aroma of Apple Cider Cookies baking in the oven. These Cider Spice Cookies are soft, flavorful, and topped with a decadent brown sugar glaze that will make your Thanksgiving desserts table shine. If you’re looking for a festive, easy-to-make cookie that embodies the flavors of fall, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 large ggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ cup apple cider

For the Brown Sugar Glaze:

• ½ cup brown sugar, packed

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons milk

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Required Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)

• Electric mixer or stand mixer

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Whisk

• Baking sheet

• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

• Cooling rack

• Small saucepan (for glaze)

• Spatula

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Set aside. These spices give your Apple Cider Cookies their signature warm, autumnal flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This step ensures your cookies will be soft and tender.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Apple Cider

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually add the apple cider, mixing until fully incorporated. The cider adds moisture and a subtle tang that elevates the Cider Spice Cookies’ flavor.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies dense.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain slightly soft. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Brown Sugar Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and milk. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow the glaze to cool slightly before drizzling over the cookies.

Step 9: Glaze the Cookies

Use a spoon or small spatula to drizzle the warm brown sugar glaze over the cooled Apple Cider Cookies. Let the glaze set for about 15 minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips for Making or Serving

• Use Fresh Spices: Ground spices lose potency over time, so fresh cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves will enhance the flavor of your Cider Spice Cookies.

• Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.

• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar in the dough slightly.

• Make Ahead: These cookies can be baked a day ahead and stored in an airtight container. Reheat slightly before serving to enjoy the fresh-baked flavor.

• Serving Suggestion: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of apple cider or spiced tea for a cozy Thanksgiving dessert experience.

Approximate Nutritional Value (per cookie)

• Calories: 180 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 28 g

• Protein: 2 g

• Fat: 7 g

• Saturated Fat: 4 g

• Sugar: 18 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sodium: 100 mg

Conclusion

Apple Cider Cookies With Brown Sugar Glaze are a must-have for your Thanksgiving desserts table. Their soft, spiced texture and sweet, buttery glaze make them irresistible for family and friends alike. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a cozy autumn treat, these Cider Spice Cookies are guaranteed to delight. Try this recipe today and bring the warm, comforting flavors of fall into your home.