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, they are sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are ideal for all occasions. The combination of aromatic apple cider and warm spices makes them irresistible to every apple cider lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: Each bite is bursting with the warm flavors of apple cider and spices.
• Cheesecake surprise: The creamy cheesecake filling adds a delightful twist to classic cookies.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe approachable for everyone.
• Perfect for sharing: With 16 cookies per batch, they’re great for parties, potlucks, or cozy evenings at home.
• Fall favorite: These cookies encapsulate the spirit of autumn, making them perfect for seasonal celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Makes it easier to achieve a smooth cheesecake filling without lumps.
• Baking sheet: Provides the perfect surface for even baking of your cookies.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies, you’ll need the following 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

Follow these steps to bake your delightful Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies.

Step 1: Prepare Apple Cider Reduction

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring 2 cups of apple cider to a simmer.
2. Allow it to reduce until it thickens slightly (about 30 minutes). Let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter with light brown sugar and granulated white sugar. Beat until creamy.
2. Add egg yolks and vanilla; mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices while mixing on low speed until just combined.
4. Stir in cooled apple cider reduction.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In another bowl, blend cold cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla using a mixer until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Scoop cookie dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Make an indentation in each cookie.
3. Fill the indentations with cheesecake filling and cover with additional cookie dough if desired.

Step 5: Bake Cookies

1. Bake for about 11 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
2. Remove from oven and let cool on a cooling rack.

Step 6: Add Topping

1. Mix together topping ingredients and brush melted butter on warm cookies.
2. Sprinkle spiced sugar over each cookie before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously unique Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies, perfect for any fall gathering!

How to Serve Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

These delicious Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee to balance the sweetness.
• Tea: Enjoy them alongside your favorite herbal or spiced tea for a cozy feel.
• Hot Chocolate: For a sweet treat, serve with rich hot chocolate topped with marshmallows.

As Dessert Platters

• Cookie Platter: Arrange your cookies on a decorative platter with other fall-themed treats.
• Dessert Boards: Create a dessert board with fruits, nuts, and these cookies for a beautiful presentation.

At Fall Gatherings

• Thanksgiving Dessert Table: Include these cookies as part of your holiday dessert spread.
• Harvest Parties: Perfect for autumn celebrations, these cookies will delight guests of all ages.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

To ensure your Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind.

• Chill the Dough: Allow the cookie dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking for better texture.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs and cream cheese to room temperature for smooth mixing and better consistency.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level flour when measuring to avoid dense cookies.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies chewy rather than tough.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be lightly golden around the edges but soft in the center.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

These Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies can be served alongside various side dishes that complement their flavor. Here are some delicious options:

1. Spiced Apple Slices: Sauté apple slices in cinnamon and sugar for a warm side dish that matches the cookie’s flavor.
2. Pumpkin Spice Muffins: These moist muffins make a perfect pairing with the apple cider theme.
3. Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the chewy cookie texture.
4. Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn: This crunchy snack provides a fun contrast to the soft cookies while maintaining that fall spice theme.
5. Caramel Dipping Sauce: A rich caramel sauce makes for a delightful dip alongside your cookies, enhancing their sweetness.
6. Roasted Nuts: Serve spiced or candied nuts as an easy snack that complements the flavors of apple and spice found in the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Ignoring the temperature of ingredients: Always use room temperature egg yolks and softened butter for a smoother cookie dough.
• Skipping the apple cider reduction: Reducing apple cider intensifies the flavor. Don’t skip this step for that rich taste!
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping it directly from the bag to avoid dense cookies.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time; cookies should be golden but soft in the middle when you take them out.
• Forgetting to chill the dough: Chilling helps prevent spreading and enhances flavors. Don’t rush this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure cookies are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat cookies individually for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common queries about Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies.

Can I substitute other types of cheese?

Yes, you can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese for different textures and flavors in your cheesecake filling.

How do I make the apple cider reduction?

Simmer apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces by half. This concentrates the flavor.

What if I don’t have ground spices?

You can use pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice as an alternative in this recipe.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your cookies by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies are truly delightful, combining chewy cookie texture with creamy filling. Their versatility allows you to customize them with different spices or mix-ins. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your fall gatherings will be sweeter with these delicious treats!