Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of sweet, comforting treats that combine the crispness of apples with the warm aroma of cinnamon, then these Apple Cookies are about to become your new favorite dessert! Here are four irresistible reasons why you’ll love making and eating these delightful cookies:

1. Perfect Balance of Flavors: The natural sweetness of fresh apples paired with aromatic cinnamon creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.
2. Soft, But With a Crunch: These cookies are irresistibly soft on the inside, with a delightful crumble topping that adds a satisfying crunch with every bite.
3. Versatile Presentation: Whether served as a snack, dessert, or part of a festive platter, these cookies look and taste fantastic in any setting.
4. Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, even beginner bakers can whip up a batch of these delicious Apple Cookies in no time!

Introduction: A Fun and Flavorful Journey into Apple Cookies

Imagine biting into a warm, freshly baked cookie that bursts with the juicy goodness of apples, sprinkled with cinnamon, and topped with a crumbly, buttery topping. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, this recipe turns that dream into reality! Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly day or looking for a sweet treat to impress friends and family, these Apple Cookies are your go-to. They combine the best of baking magic with wholesome ingredients, making every bite a delightful experience. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while baking is simply irresistible—your house will smell like a cinnamon apple orchard in full bloom!

Ingredients with Measurements

• 450g apples (about 3-4 apples)
• 125g butter (½ cup)
• 2 eggs
• 100ml oil (⅓ cup)
• 1 packet vanilla sugar
• 1 packet baking powder
• 100g cornstarch (¾ cup)
• 200g powdered sugar (1 cup)
• 450g flour (3 ½ cups)
• 3-4 teaspoons cinnamon
• 200g walnuts (about 1 ½ cups, chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Apple Cookies

Preparing the Dough

1. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, soften the butter and beat it together with eggs, oil, and vanilla sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the baking powder, cornstarch, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and flour into the wet mixture. Mix thoroughly until you get a smooth, elastic dough.
3. Divide the Dough: Set aside one-third of the dough for the crumble topping. Knead the remaining two-thirds, shape it into a ball, and let it rest covered for about an hour. This resting period allows the dough to rise slightly and develop flavor.

Preparing the Apple Filling

1. Chop the Apples: Peel and dice the apples into small pieces.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the chopped apples with chopped walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon until well coated.

Assembling the Cookies

1. Shape the Discs: After resting, divide the dough into small, flat discs about the size of your palm.
2. Add the Filling: Place a spoonful of apple mixture onto each disc.
3. Top with Crumble: Crumble the reserved dough over the apple filling, pressing gently to seal.

Baking

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 175°C (347°F).
2. Bake: Place the assembled cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Finish: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Creative Presentation and Serving Ideas

Once your Apple Cookies are baked to perfection, it’s time to serve them up in style! Here are some fun and appealing ways to present and enjoy these treats:

• Classic Platter: Arrange the cookies on a beautiful serving tray, sprinkled with a little extra powdered sugar or cinnamon for a festive look.
• With a Dollop of Whipped Cream: Serve warm cookies with a side of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Decorative Gift Box: Pack the cookies in a pretty box or jar, perfect for gifting during holidays or special occasions.
• Accompanied by Hot Beverages: Pair with hot apple cider, tea, or coffee to enhance the cozy, comforting vibe.
• As Part of a Dessert Platter: Combine with other baked goods like muffins, scones, or biscotti for a delightful dessert spread.

Storing and Shelf Life

To keep your Apple Cookies fresh and delicious:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, place cookies in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat briefly in the oven or microwave before serving for that just-baked feel.
• Freezing: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before enjoying.

FAQs About Apple Cookies

1. Can I use different types of apples? Yes! Tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice contrast, but sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work well too.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.
3. Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free? Yes, substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
4. Can I add raisins or other dried fruits? Certainly! Mix dried fruits into the apple filling for extra sweetness and texture.
5. How do I prevent the crumble topping from falling apart? Ensure the crumble dough is cold and crumbly before topping the cookies. Press gently to help it adhere during baking.
6. Can I use a different nut instead of walnuts? Yes! Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts are great alternatives.
7. What if I don’t have vanilla sugar? You can substitute with a teaspoon of vanilla extract mixed into the dough.
8. Are these cookies suitable for kids? Absolutely! They are sweet, soft, and full of familiar flavors that kids love.
9. Can I make these cookies vegan? Yes! Replace butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, and eggs with flaxseed or chia seed eggs.
10. What’s the best way to reheat leftover cookies? Warm them in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds for a quick treat.

Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful Apple Cookies with friends and family. They’re sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire, bringing warmth and sweetness to any occasion!