Name: Caramel Apple Cider Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 48
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ tsp salt; 7½ oz Alpine Spiced Apple Cider Instant Original Drink Mix; 2 eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp Baking Soda; ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp Cinnamon; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 14 oz Kraft Caramels

Imagine biting into a cookie that perfectly captures the essence of caramel and apple cider. These cookies are a delightful treat that combine the warmth of apple cider with the gooey surprise of caramel at their center. Perfect for autumn gatherings or a cozy night in.

Photos of Caramel Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

One ingredient you might not have at home is the alpine spiced apple cider instant original drink mix. This powdered drink mix adds a burst of apple cider flavor to the cookies. Also, make sure to pick up kraft caramels for that delightful gooey center.

Ingredients For Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

unsalted butter: Provides a rich, creamy base for the cookies.

granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to create a tender texture.

salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.

alpine spiced apple cider instant original drink mix: The key ingredient for a burst of apple cider flavor.

eggs: Acts as a binding agent to hold all the ingredients together.

vanilla extract: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor to complement the apple cider.

baking soda: Helps the cookies to rise and become light and fluffy.

baking powder: Works with the baking soda to provide additional lift.

cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.

all-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the cookies.

kraft caramels: Provides a gooey, sweet center to each cookie.

One reader, Ginni Redden says:

These caramel apple cider cookies are absolutely delightful! The combination of spiced apple cider and gooey caramel creates a perfect fall treat. They are easy to make and taste like a cozy autumn day. My family couldn't get enough of them. Highly recommend!

Ginni Redden

Techniques Required

How to cream butter and sugar: Use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps the cookies rise and gives them a tender texture.

How to whisk dry ingredients: Combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon in a small bowl and whisk them together. This ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

How to flatten and shape dough: Scoop out a ball of dough, flatten it slightly in your palm, and then shape it around the caramel. This ensures that the caramel is fully enclosed in the dough, preventing it from leaking out during baking.

How to bake cookies: Place the shaped dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven until they are lightly browned around the edges. This step ensures that the cookies are baked evenly.

How to cool cookies: Allow the cookies to cool partially on the parchment or Silpat before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps the cookies set and prevents them from breaking apart.

How To Make Caramel Apple Cider Cookies

These apple cider cookies are a nostalgic dessert with an apple and cinnamon cookie dough filled with a gooey caramel candy in the center.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupunsalted butter,softened
1cupgranulated sugar
½tspsalt
7½ozAlpine Spiced Apple Cider Instant Original Drink Mix,(1 box), not sugar free
2eggs
1tspvanilla extract
1tspbaking soda
½tspbaking powder
1tspcinnamon
3cupsall-purpose flour
14ozKraft caramels,(1 bag), unwrapped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line cookie sheets with parchment or a Silpat.
In a small bowl whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon. With an electric mixer, cream together butter, sugar, salt, and all 10 packages of apple cider drink mix powder, until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs, one at a time. Add vanilla and mix well. Gradually add flour mixture to butter/egg mixture. Mix until just combined.
Scoop out a cookie dough ball about the size of a walnut (about 2 tablespoons). Flatten the ball of dough slightly in the palm of your hand.
Press the unwrapped caramel into the center of the dough and seal the dough around it, covering it completely.
Shape the dough into a ball, and place on parchment-covered cookie sheets about 3 inches apart.
Bake 12 to 14 minutes, or until very lightly browned around the edges. Once the cookies are done, carefully slide the parchment or Silpat off of the baking sheet right out onto the counter.
Allow cookies to partially cool on the parchment/Silpat. When cookies are cool enough to be firm but still slightly warm, carefully twist off of parchment and allow to finish cooling upside down (either on the parchment/Silpat or on a rack).

Nutrition

Calories: 128.22kcal
Fat: 4.85g
Saturated Fat: 2.72g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.21g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.54g
Carbohydrates: 20.05g
Fiber: 0.43g
Sugar: 9.68g
Protein: 1.78g
Cholesterol: 17.41mg
Sodium: 103.19mg
Calcium: 35.59mg
Potassium: 36.09mg
Iron: 2.13mg
Vitamin A: 36.21µg
Vitamin C: 0.04mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

To ensure the caramel centers remain gooey and don't harden too much, slightly underbake the cookies. This will keep the caramel soft and chewy, providing a delightful contrast to the crisp edges of the cookie.

How to Save Time on Making These Cookies

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and organize all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smooth and quick baking process.

Use pre-cut caramels: Opt for pre-cut caramels to save time on unwrapping and cutting each piece.

Chill dough briefly: Chill the dough for 10-15 minutes to make it easier to handle and shape around the caramels.

Double up on baking sheets: Prepare multiple baking sheets so you can rotate them in and out of the oven without waiting for one to cool.

Use a cookie scoop: A cookie scoop ensures uniform cookie dough balls and speeds up the portioning process.

Substitute Ingredients For Caramel Apple Cider Cookies Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a direct replacement for butter in most baking recipes, providing a similar texture and moisture content.
granulated sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper, molasses-like flavor and extra moisture to the cookies.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral taste.
alpine spiced apple cider instant original drink mix - Substitute with apple juice concentrate: Apple juice concentrate can provide a similar apple flavor, though you may need to adjust the liquid content in the recipe.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This mixture can act as a binding agent similar to eggs.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor to the cookies.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 times the amount of baking powder as a substitute for baking soda, though it may slightly alter the texture.
baking powder - Substitute with cream of tartar and baking soda: Mix 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, spicy flavor similar to cinnamon, though it is slightly stronger, so use a bit less.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, though it may make the cookies denser.
kraft caramels - Substitute with homemade caramel sauce: Homemade caramel sauce can provide a richer, more authentic caramel flavor, though it may require additional preparation time.

Best Way to Present These Cookies

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the caramel apple cider cookies in a refined manner by making them slightly smaller, ensuring each cookie is a perfect bite-sized delight.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a delicate drizzle of caramel sauce and a light dusting of cinnamon to enhance the visual appeal and hint at the flavors within.
Add complementary elements: Pair the cookies with a small glass of warm apple cider, garnished with a cinnamon stick, to create a cohesive and immersive tasting experience.
Utilize elegant plating: Arrange the cookies on a sleek, white porcelain plate to allow the colors and textures of the cookies to stand out, creating a sophisticated presentation.
Incorporate texture contrast: Add a few thin slices of fresh apple and a sprinkle of crushed nuts around the cookies to provide a contrasting crunch and a fresh element to the dish.
Highlight the caramel: Ensure the caramel center is slightly exposed by gently cracking open one of the cookies on the plate, showcasing the gooey, luscious filling inside.
Use a thematic garnish: Place a small, decorative apple leaf or a sprig of rosemary on the plate to tie in the apple theme and add a touch of elegance.
Create a balanced composition: Arrange the cookies in a staggered pattern, with varying heights, to create a dynamic and visually appealing presentation that draws the eye across the plate.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Oven: Used to bake the cookies at the specified temperature of 350 degrees F.
Parchment paper: Lining the cookie sheets to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
Silpat: An alternative to parchment paper, providing a non-stick surface for baking.
Small bowl: Used to whisk together the dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon.
Electric mixer: Essential for creaming together the butter, sugar, salt, and apple cider drink mix until light and fluffy.
Mixing bowl: Holds the butter and sugar mixture and later the combined dough.
Measuring cups: For accurately measuring out the flour, sugar, and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: For measuring smaller quantities like baking soda, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Cookie scoop: Helps in scooping out uniform balls of cookie dough.
Baking sheet: The surface on which the cookies are baked.
Cooling rack: Allows the cookies to cool evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Knife: For unwrapping and cutting the caramels if needed.
Whisk: Used to mix the dry ingredients together in the small bowl.

How to Store / Freeze These Cookies

To keep your caramel apple cider cookies fresh and delightful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and chewy for up to a week. If you prefer a slightly crispier texture, you can leave the lid slightly ajar.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. First, allow them to cool completely. Then, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour. This prevents them from sticking together.
Once the cookies are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to label the container with the date. These cookies can be frozen for up to three months without losing their delicious flavor.
When you're ready to enjoy a frozen cookie, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer a warm cookie, you can microwave it for about 10-15 seconds.
If you want to prepare the dough in advance, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls. Follow the recipe instructions up to the point of shaping the dough around the caramel. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to bake, preheat your oven and bake the frozen dough balls as directed, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
For an added touch of freshness, you can store a slice of apple or a piece of bread in the container with the cookies. This helps maintain their moisture and keeps them soft.
If you find that the cookies have become too hard, you can revive them by placing them in the microwave with a damp paper towel for about 10 seconds. This will soften them up and make them taste freshly baked.

How to Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F. This lower temperature ensures that the caramel inside the cookies doesn't overheat and ooze out.
Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a Silpat. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even reheating.
Cover the cookies loosely with aluminum foil. This keeps them from drying out while they warm up.
Bake for about 10 minutes. Check the cookies halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly.
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool slightly before enjoying. The caramel should be gooey and the cookie should be soft and warm.
If you prefer using a microwave, place a damp paper towel over a microwave-safe plate of cookies. This helps retain moisture.
Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check the cookies and add more time in 10-second increments if needed. Be cautious, as the caramel can get very hot.
For a quick stovetop method, use a non-stick skillet over low heat.
Place the cookies in the skillet and cover with a lid. This creates a mini-oven effect.
Heat for about 2-3 minutes, flipping the cookies halfway through. This method gives a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the caramel inside gooey.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300 degrees F.
Place the cookies in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly.
For a toaster oven, preheat to 300 degrees F.
Place the cookies on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking sheet.
Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overheat.
Always allow the cookies to cool slightly before handling, as the caramel can be very hot and sticky.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A fun fact about this caramel apple cider cookies recipe is that the apple cider drink mix not only adds a unique flavor but also enhances the cookie's texture, making it both chewy and flavorful.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This caramel apple cider cookies recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main expense comes from the unsalted butter and kraft caramels, while the other ingredients like granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and apple cider drink mix are relatively inexpensive. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15. Considering the unique flavor and delightful experience, the overall verdict rating for this recipe is a solid 8 out of 10.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This caramel apple cider cookie recipe is undeniably delicious but leans towards the unhealthy side. The high amounts of butter and sugar, combined with the caramel centers, contribute to a high calorie and sugar content. Additionally, the use of instant apple cider drink mix adds extra sugar and artificial ingredients. While these cookies are a delightful treat, they are not ideal for regular consumption if you are aiming for a healthy diet.

Replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat content.
Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a natural sweetener like stevia.
Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
Opt for dark chocolate pieces instead of caramels for a healthier filling.
Add finely chopped nuts or seeds for extra protein and healthy fats.
Incorporate dried apple pieces to enhance the apple flavor naturally.
Reduce the amount of apple cider drink mix and add a teaspoon of apple pie spice for a more natural flavor boost.

Editor's Thoughts on This Recipe

This caramel apple cider cookie recipe is a delightful fusion of autumn flavors. The use of apple cider drink mix adds a unique twist, infusing the cookies with a warm, spiced aroma. The hidden caramel center provides a gooey surprise that complements the crisp edges perfectly. However, consider using high-quality caramels to avoid any overly chewy texture. The balance of spices, especially the cinnamon, enhances the overall taste, making these cookies a standout treat for fall gatherings. Ensure proper sealing of the dough around the caramel to prevent any leakage during baking.

Enhance Your Caramel Apple Cider Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

json { "Roasted Butternut Squash Soup": "Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine the creamy, velvety texture of butternut squash soup, perfectly seasoned with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. This warm, comforting soup will complement the caramel apple cider cookies with its savory and slightly sweet notes, creating a harmonious balance of flavors."

"Spiced Cranberry Relish": "Spiced Cranberry Relish: A tangy and slightly tart cranberry relish, infused with orange zest and a touch of cinnamon, will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet cookies. The vibrant color and bold flavors will make your dessert table pop with excitement."

"Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts": "Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection and drizzled with a luscious maple syrup glaze. The caramelized edges and slight bitterness of the sprouts will beautifully offset the sweetness of the caramel apple cider cookies, creating a delightful interplay of flavors."

"Apple Walnut Salad": "Apple Walnut Salad: Crisp apple slices, crunchy walnuts, and a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles, all tossed in a light vinaigrette. This refreshing salad will add a burst of freshness and a touch of acidity to balance the rich, buttery cookies."

"Gingerbread Latte": "Gingerbread Latte: A warm, spiced gingerbread latte, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, will be the perfect beverage to accompany your caramel apple cider cookies. The cozy, aromatic flavors of the latte will enhance the autumnal essence of the cookies, making for a truly indulgent treat." }

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This

Apple Pie Bars: Imagine the classic apple pie transformed into a convenient, hand-held treat. These bars feature a buttery crust, a spiced apple filling, and a crumbly topping. Perfect for a cozy autumn day.

Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles: Combine the warm flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon in these soft, chewy cookies. Each bite is like a taste of fall, making them an irresistible treat for any dessert lover.

Maple Pecan Cookies: These cookies are a delightful blend of maple syrup and crunchy pecans. The rich, nutty flavor pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them an ideal afternoon snack.

Spiced Pear Muffins: Moist and flavorful, these muffins are packed with juicy pears and a hint of ginger. They make a wonderful breakfast treat or a sweet addition to any brunch spread.

Cranberry Orange Scones: Brighten up your morning with these zesty cranberry and orange scones. They are tender, flaky, and bursting with flavor, perfect for enjoying with a dollop of clotted cream or butter.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine a platter of Stuffed Mushrooms that are bursting with flavor. These delightful bites are filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, creating a creamy and aromatic filling. The mushroom caps are baked to perfection, offering a tender yet slightly crispy texture. Garnished with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, these appetizers are not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for any gathering, they are sure to be a hit among your guests.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic Bruschetta. This Italian favorite features toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crunchy bread and the juicy, flavorful topping creates a delightful contrast in textures. A touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt enhance the natural flavors, making each bite a burst of freshness. Serve these at your next gathering for a simple yet elegant appetizer that everyone will love.

Main Courses:

Chicken Parmesan: Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that combines crispy breaded chicken cutlets with a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Serve it over a bed of spaghetti or alongside a fresh Caesar salad for a complete meal. The key to a perfect Chicken Parmesan is to use high-quality Parmesan cheese and to ensure the chicken is cooked to a golden brown before layering with sauce and cheese. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

Beef Wellington: Beef Wellington is an elegant and luxurious dish that features a tender beef tenderloin coated with a flavorful mushroom duxelles and wrapped in a flaky puff pastry. The beef is first seared to lock in the juices, then layered with prosciutto and the mushroom mixture before being encased in the pastry. Bake until the pastry is golden and the beef is cooked to your desired doneness. Serve with a rich red wine reduction and roasted vegetables for a truly indulgent meal that will impress any guest.

Why trust this Caramel Apple Cider Cookies Recipe:

These caramel apple cider cookies are a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of spiced apple cider with the gooey goodness of Kraft caramels. The recipe is straightforward, using common ingredients like butter, sugar, and flour, ensuring you can easily make these at home. The addition of cinnamon and vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile, making each bite a burst of autumnal bliss. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and the guaranteed satisfaction it brings with every cookie.

Want to share your experience making these delightful Caramel Apple Cider Cookies? Head over to the Baking and Desserts section of our forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

Can I use a different brand of apple cider drink mix?

Yes, you can use any brand of apple cider drink mix, but make sure it's the instant kind. The flavor might vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.

What if I can't find Kraft caramels?

No worries! You can use any soft caramel candies. Just make sure they're small enough to fit inside the cookie dough balls.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature a bit before you start shaping and baking the cookies.

How do I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the dough?

Sure! Chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate chips could be great additions. Just mix them in with the dough before you start shaping the cookies.