Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

These Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With their chewy texture and creamy cheesecake filling, these cookies are ideal for any gathering or cozy night in. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or simply indulging yourself, these cookies will surely impress every apple cider enthusiast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple cider and spices creates a warm and comforting taste.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can succeed!
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, holidays, or just as an everyday snack.
• Creamy Filling: The cheesecake center adds a luxurious touch to each bite.
• Perfectly Spiced: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice provides an aromatic experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready makes baking a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Ensures that your batter is mixed evenly and achieves the right texture.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 cups (480 ml) apple cider
• 3 tbsp (38 g) granulated white sugar
• 1 3/4 cups (218 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (165 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) apple cider reduction from above

For the Topping

• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• pinch ground allspice
• 1-2 tbsp (14-28 g) salted butter, melted

How to Make Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Cider Reduction

Start by boiling the apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat. Reduce it until you have about 2 tablespoons of concentrated liquid. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cold cream cheese with 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon of vanilla. Mix until smooth. Add in the cooled apple cider reduction and beat until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In another large bowl, cream together softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add in egg yolks and remaining vanilla; mix well. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a scoop of cookie dough and flatten it in your palm. Place about a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center. Fold the edges over to encase the filling completely. Roll into a ball.

Step 5: Bake

Place the cookie balls on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 11 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Remove from oven.

Step 6: Add Topping

While still warm, brush each cookie with melted butter and sprinkle with spiced sugar mixture made from granulated sugar mixed with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.

Enjoy these delicious Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies as they capture all the flavors of fall!

How to Serve Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

Apple cider cheesecake cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. These cookies are perfect for fall gatherings, cozy nights, or as a sweet addition to your afternoon tea. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pair these cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of warm and cold.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the cookies enhances their sweetness and adds a luxurious touch.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter alongside other fall-themed treats for an inviting presentation at parties.

With Hot Apple Cider

• Serve the cookies with a steaming mug of hot apple cider to enhance the apple flavor and create a cozy atmosphere.

As an Afternoon Snack

• These cookies make for an ideal afternoon snack, especially enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

Perfecting your apple cider cheesecake cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider will provide the best flavor and aroma in your cookies.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes helps them hold their shape while baking.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour to avoid excess flour, which can lead to dry cookies.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences for more or less warmth.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

To complement your apple cider cheesecake cookies, consider pairing them with these delightful side dishes. Each one adds something special that enhances the overall dessert experience.

1. Spiced Pumpkin Muffins: These moist muffins bring seasonal flavors together and pair well with the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Candied Nuts: Sweet and crunchy, candied nuts provide a contrasting texture that complements soft cookies beautifully.

3. Cream Cheese Frosting Dipped Pretzels: Salty pretzels dipped in creamy frosting offer a playful twist and balance sweetness with saltiness.

4. Apple Crisp: This warm dessert made from baked apples and crisp topping echoes the flavors in the cookies wonderfully.

5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory counterpoints to sweet treats like these cookies, adding depth to your dessert table.

6. Pecan Pie Bars: Rich and nutty, these bars can add another layer of flavor that pairs nicely with apple desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure perfect results every time. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the chill time: Not allowing the dough to chill can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too vigorously can create tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a chewy texture.
• Incorrect measuring of ingredients: Using too much flour or sugar can alter the cookie’s consistency. Use a spoon to aerate flour before measuring.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature may cause uneven cooking. Invest in an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Not using parchment paper: Skipping this step can lead to sticking and difficult cleanup. Always line your baking sheet with parchment.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually first.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, where they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally for about 2-3 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies:

How do I make apple cider reduction?

To create an apple cider reduction, simmer apple cider over medium heat until it thickens and reduces by half, which takes around 15-20 minutes.

Can I substitute cream cheese in these cookies?

Yes! You can use vegan cream cheese or cashew cream for a dairy-free version of Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies.

What if I don’t have ground nutmeg?

If you don’t have ground nutmeg, you can substitute it with more cinnamon or allspice in your Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies recipe.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies remain fresh in an airtight container for up to five days at room temperature.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can add extra texture and flavor to your Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile. Their chewy texture combined with creamy filling makes them perfect for any fall gathering or cozy night in. Feel free to customize them with your favorite spices or mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips!