Glazed Soft Apple Cookies: A Comforting Fall Treat

Glazed soft apple cookies are the perfect balance of warm fall spices, sweet apple chunks, and a delightful glaze that adds the finishing touch. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for autumn gatherings, cozy evenings, or as a tasty snack for any time of the year. These cookies capture the essence of fall with their soft texture and the sweet glaze that perfectly complements the apple and spice flavors.

For more comforting fall treats, you can try this Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake with Apple Roses to add a seasonal dessert that will wow your guests.

Ingredients for Glazed Soft Apple Cookies

To make these cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Flour: All-purpose flour as the base for the cookies.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder: To help the cookies rise and stay soft.
• Spices: Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
• Sugar: Brown sugar and granulated sugar for sweetness and moisture.
• Butter: Adds richness to the cookies.
• Apples: Fresh apples, diced into small chunks. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are great for this recipe.
• Eggs & Vanilla Extract: The binding agents that add flavor depth.
• For the Glaze: Powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.

For a savory counterpart to these cookies, try this hearty Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Over Noodles for a balanced fall dinner.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Glazed Soft Apple Cookies

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough
   • In a bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, and spices.
   • In another bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, and fold in the diced apples.
2. Scoop and Bake
   • Drop the cookie dough by spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
3. Prepare the Glaze
   • While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. The consistency should be thick but pourable.
   • Once the cookies are cool, drizzle the glaze over each cookie, allowing it to set before serving.

Variations of Glazed Soft Apple Cookies

1. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies: Add rolled oats for an extra chewy texture and fiber boost.
2. Maple Glazed Apple Cookies: Replace vanilla in the glaze with maple syrup for a richer, fall-inspired glaze.
3. Vegan Apple Cookies: Use dairy-free butter and flax eggs to create a plant-based version of these cookies.
4. Pecan Apple Cookies: Add chopped pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
5. Gluten-Free Apple Cookies: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend for a crowd-pleasing, gluten-free treat.

For more inspiration, you may want to check out this Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Balls for a savory snack that pairs well with sweet treats like these cookies.

Nutritional Information and Healthier Alternatives

Nutritional Breakdown per Cookie:

• Calories: Approx. 120
• Fat: 6g
• Carbs: 16g
• Protein: 2g

Healthier Alternatives:

• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to add fiber.
• Natural Sweeteners: Replace refined sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a lower glycemic option.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and milk in both the dough and glaze for a dairy-free version.

FAQs About Glazed Soft Apple Cookies

1. Can I use apple sauce instead of fresh apples?
   Yes, but it will change the texture of the cookies. Apple sauce will make the cookies more cake-like and less chunky.
2. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
   Stored in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to 5 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them without the glaze.
3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
   Absolutely! Scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a tray before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
4. How do I prevent the glaze from being too runny?
   Make sure to let the cookies cool completely before glazing. If the glaze is too runny, add more powdered sugar to thicken it.

Conclusion

These glazed soft apple cookies are the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Whether you’re baking for a holiday event or simply want a cozy treat to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cookies will hit the spot every time. With their soft, chewy texture and sweet, spiced glaze, they are sure to become a family favorite.

Pair these cookies with comforting dinner options like Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy Over Noodles or Crockpot Chicken and Gravy for a full meal of comforting fall flavors.