The scent of autumn fills the air as I eagerly pull a tray of Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze from the oven. There’s something magical about the combination of crispy edges and soft, chewy centers, especially when they’re packed with tart Granny Smith apples and warmly spiced with cinnamon. Not only are these cookies an easy dessert to whip up for any fall gathering, but they also provide a delightful homemade alternative to store-bought treats. Topped with a luscious maple glaze, they become an irresistible delight that’s perfect for sharing—or savoring all on your own! So, are you ready to treat yourself to a warm bite of autumn bliss?
Why are these cookies a fall favorite?
Irresistible aroma: The combination of tart apples and warm cinnamon fills your kitchen with the ultimate fall scent.
Quick and easy: With minimal prep time, you can have these delightful cookies ready in under 30 minutes!
Versatile options: Feel free to substitute apples with pears or add walnuts for extra crunch—and they’re easily made nut-free!
Perfect for sharing: Their chewy texture and sweet maple glaze are sure to impress friends and family, making them perfect for gatherings.
Cozy indulgence: Pair with a cup of hot cider or coffee for an unforgettable autumn experience that celebrates the season!
Check out my tips on Cake Mix Cookies for even more easy baking ideas!
Apple Cinnamon Cookies Ingredients
• For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides a rich, creamy base; substitute with salted butter, adjusting salt levels.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds the perfect sweetness and helps achieve lightly crisp edges.
- Brown Sugar – Increases moisture content, giving cookies a chewier texture and caramel flavor.
- Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients and adding richness, contributing to a fluffy cookie.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness with floral notes that beautifully complement the apple and cinnamon.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the dough structure while ensuring a tender, delightful texture.
- Baking Soda – Adds lightness and assists in the rising of the cookies.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses aromas of warmth and pairs beautifully with the apple flavors.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates overall flavors.
- Peeled and Diced Apples (preferably Granny Smith) – Adds juicy, tart pockets; substitute with Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter taste.
- Chopped Walnuts (optional) – For a delightful nutty crunch; omit for a nut-free option or use sunflower seeds instead.
• For the Maple Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Provides a sweet base for the glaze, contributing to its smooth texture.
- Pure Maple Syrup – Adds rich, authentic maple flavor; the star ingredient to elevate your Apple Cinnamon Cookies.
- Milk – Thins the glaze to achieve the perfect consistency for drizzling over your cookies.
Get ready to enjoy the warmth of homemade Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze that will fill your home with the spirit of fall!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring that they are ready for your freshly baked Apple Cinnamon Cookies. This prep step guarantees the cookies bake evenly while preventing any sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step infuses air into your batter, leading to tender cookies with perfectly crisp edges.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Now, add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully combined. Then, blend in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. This adds richness and depth to your cookies, creating a harmonious flavor that complements the apple and cinnamon.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Ensure the mixture is well combined and fluffy, providing the perfect base for your dough. This step is essential for balancing the sweetness and achieving an even texture in your Apple Cinnamon Cookies.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see dry flour to prevent overmixing, allowing your cookies to remain soft and chewy. The dough will appear somewhat sticky, which is perfect for folding in the apples.
Step 6: Add Apples and Walnuts
Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of diced Granny Smith apples and, if desired, ½ cup of chopped walnuts. Use a spatula to ensure even distribution without breaking the apples. This step is fun, as you’ll start to see the colorful bits of fruit and nuts, enhancing both the texture and flavor of your cookies.
Step 7: Shape the Cookie Dough
With a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You should aim for around 1½ inches balls of dough; a little space ensures the cookies can spread while baking. This is where your Apple Cinnamon Cookies will start taking shape!
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Carefully transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the edges turn golden brown and the centers look set but still slightly soft. The wonderful aroma of freshly baked cookies will fill your kitchen, giving you a sneak peek of the cozy treat to come.
Step 9: Cool Cookies
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This brief cooling period allows them to firm up slightly, making it easier to handle them without breaking. Enjoy the warm scent as your Apple Cinnamon Cookies cool down!
Step 10: Prepare the Maple Glaze
While the cookies cool, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. This glaze will add a sweet, shiny finish to your cookies, enhancing their flavor and visual appeal.
Step 11: Drizzle the Glaze
Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the maple glaze over them using a spoon or a piping bag. Ensure each cookie is generously coated for that delightful sweet touch. This final step elevates your Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze into a show-stopping treat that is as beautiful as it is delicious!
Storage Tips for Apple Cinnamon Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Apple Cinnamon Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days to maintain their delicious texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you’re not ready to indulge yet, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 10 days. Just remember to let them reach room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unglazed cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Enjoy them for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To bring back the warmth, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or pop them in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Enjoy that cozy feeling all over again!
Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze Variations
Get ready to tweak this recipe and make it truly yours with delightful substitutions and twists!
- Nut-Free: Omit walnuts entirely and consider adding pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture that everyone can enjoy.
- Pears Instead of Apples: Swap out Granny Smith apples for ripe pears for a subtly sweet and equally delicious cookie.
- Extra Spice: Add a dash of nutmeg or allspice to your dough for an aromatic twist that enhances the fall flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a deliciously inclusive version.
- Caramel Drizzle: Replace the maple glaze with a homemade caramel drizzle for a rich and indulgent treat.
- Cinnamon Chip Boost: Add in some cinnamon chips alongside the apples for an extra kick of flavor with each bite.
- Dried Fruit: Try mixing in dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture that gives a delightful contrast to the freshness of the apples.
- Brown Butter: For a deeper, nuttier flavor, brown the butter before mixing it into the dough, resulting in a unique taste experience.
These variations will keep your baking fresh and exciting! If you’re looking for more fun recipes, check out the delightful world of Chocolate Chips Cookies or explore the simplicity of Cool Whip Cookies. Enjoy your baking adventures!
What to Serve with Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze?
Indulging in the delightful warmth of cookies is just the beginning of your cozy autumn experience.
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Steaming Coffee: A rich cup of coffee perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
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Hot Apple Cider: Nothing says fall like hot apple cider; its spiced notes beautifully resonate with the cinnamon, creating a comforting pairing.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies, elevating every bite.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season with a pumpkin spice latte; its creamy sweetness complements the apple and cinnamon flavors splendidly.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve the cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, providing a delightful contrast between hot and cold for a decadent treat.
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Chocolate Milk: For a playful twist, pair your cookies with a cold glass of chocolate milk, adding a rich sweetness that kids will adore.
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Roasted Chestnuts: Emphasizing fall’s rustic charm, roasted chestnuts add a warm, nutty flavor that pairs well with the cinnamon-spiced cookies.
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Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, like brie or aged cheddar, can add depth and sophistication, balancing sweetness with savory richness.
Enjoy the journey of flavors as you create a perfect fall meal around your Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze!
Expert Tips for Apple Cinnamon Cookies
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Keep It Tender: Avoid overmixing the dough; this keeps your Apple Cinnamon Cookies tender and chewy, allowing the flavors to shine through beautifully.
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Gentle Folding: When adding in the diced apples, fold them in delicately to maintain the cookie structure—this prevents apples from breaking down and ensures delicious bites.
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Cooling Matters: Always let the cookies cool on a wire rack before drizzling the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
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Watch the Time: Bake until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still slightly soft—this ensures that your cookies stay chewy and delectable!
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Experiment with Spice: Feel free to try different spices like nutmeg or allspice to add more warmth to your Apple Cinnamon Cookies, making them a delightful twist on a classic!
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by refrigerating it in an airtight container. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes baking on a busy day a breeze. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto baking sheets and bake directly from the refrigerator, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time if needed. For the glaze, mix it up to 24 hours ahead and store it in the fridge, allowing it to reach room temperature before drizzling. Just follow these steps, and you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors with minimal effort!
Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my apples are ripe for baking?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Apple Cinnamon Cookies, choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, which hold their shape well during baking. Look for apples that are brightly colored without any dark spots or blemishes, indicating freshness. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are fantastic alternatives!
What is the best way to store my cookies?
To keep your Apple Cinnamon Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days. If you’d like to enjoy them for longer, refrigerate them, where they can last up to 10 days. Just remember to allow them to return to room temperature for the best taste!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your unglazed Apple Cinnamon Cookies, first spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid (about 2-3 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. They can be saved for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw and glaze them as desired!
What should I do if my cookies are spreading too much while baking?
Very common! If your cookies are spreading excessively, try a couple of things: Firstly, ensure your butter is softened but not melted; using butter that’s too soft can lead to over-spread. Secondly, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help maintain their shape. Also, double-check that you’ve measured your flour accurately; too little flour can also cause spreading.
Are these cookies safe for kids with nut allergies?
Yes! If you’re concerned about nut allergies, simply omit the chopped walnuts from your Apple Cinnamon Cookies as they’re optional. They can still be delicious and safe for everyone to enjoy! If you’re looking for a nut-free alternative, consider adding pumpkin seeds for a nice crunch without the nuts.
How do I achieve the perfect maple glaze consistency?
To ensure a smooth, pourable maple glaze for your Apple Cinnamon Cookies, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk. Adjust the thickness as needed: if it’s too thick, add a little more milk; if it’s too thin, simply add more powdered sugar. This step allows for easy drizzling and a beautifully sweet finish!
Warm Apple Cinnamon Cookies with Maple Glaze Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time and mix in the vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the diced apples and optional walnuts gently to avoid breaking them.
- Scoop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden brown; let cool for 5 minutes on the sheets.
- Prepare the maple glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth.
- Once cookies are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over them generously.
